“Two for the Road” is a 1967 film about the relationship and marriage between Joanna and Mark (Audrey Hepburn and Albert Finney) as they travel the back roads of France. The film shifts back and forth during five periods in their relationship and is a bit disjointed, but fills in beautifully by the end of the movie.
The story takes place during the 10-year marriage of the couple. It’s often a bit confusing to understand which period they are in at the time so keep an eye on the different cars and Hepburn’s wardrobe and hairstyles.
Joanna met Mark accidentally and during their first weeks together managed to fall in love, even though Mark was steadfast against love and marriage. They had a lot of ups and downs during their marriage, which included infidelity on both sides, but they always managed to find their way back to each other. They completed each other, to use an often-amusing term. Their marriage was rocky at times, but their undying love carried them through the good times and the bad.
Hepburn is adorable as always. The beautiful background score by Mancini is a good addition to this film. It’s soulful yet spirited, just like the characters. Included on the disc is an isolated music track. When you listen, you will understand how wonderful Mancini’s score fits in with the story and sets the tone of the film.
Jacqueline Bisset has a small role in the beginning of the story, and her character is the reason Joanna and Mark got together. And playing the small part of Joanna and Mark’s daughter Caroline is Kathy Chelimsky. Interestingly, her brother Tom later played the son of a friend of Hepburn in the 1963 film “Charade”, and Stanley Donen directed both movies.
Hepburn is adorable as always. She brings a sparkle to her character, even when she is at a low point. This story of the love of Joanna and Mark is a treasure for film buffs and fans of the two actors.
“Two for the Road” is now available on Blu-ray from the folks at Twilight Time. Sit back and relax as you view this love story unfold through the years.
