Episode 12 - Roman Holiday

Comedian Maria Shehata and writer/director Cat Rhinehart break down the 1953 classic Roman Holiday, starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck, through the lens of their feminist film podcast. They explore Princess Anne’s brief escape from royal duty, why the film’s ending is surprisingly honest, and how classic Hollywood sometimes gave female characters more agency than movies of the 80s and 90s. The hosts debate whether Gregory Peck’s character is actually good for the princess. They also dive into why actors looked older in classic films, the pressures of royalty, and what modern movies could learn from this charming, bittersweet classic.