Kino Lorber has a new Special Edition Blu-ray of the remake of Sabrina.

This 1995 version of the awkward girl who grew up to be a beautiful woman is a remake of the 1954 original classic. This time Harrison Ford takes on the role of Linus Larrabee, originated by Humphrey Bogart in the first film. Greg Kinnear is his younger playboy brother David (originated by William Holden) and Julia Ormond steps into the shoes of Sabrina Fairchild, first brought to the screen by Audrey Hepburn.

Instead of being a chef, this Sabrina is a photographer, but the storyline is basically the same as the 1954 film.  Sabrina has always been in love with David, but her class is beneath him, as he is a wealthy man of society and she is the daughter of their chauffeur.

Once she returns from Paris, David falls in love with this woman who has turned from a plain Jane – or actually, a plain Sabrina – into a beautiful and sophisticated woman. The family is set against this relationship, so Linus takes it upon himself to woo her to take her attention away from David who is betrothed to a woman (Lauren Holly) whose family, when merged with theirs, would make a great business venture.

The all-business Linus actually falls for Sabrina, and as in the original film, their love is destined to be, to the chagrin of the family. But love wins out. 

The ending differs a bit from the Bogart version as the times have changed. Instead of following her onto a ship, he takes the now-defunct Concord to arrive in Paris before she gets there to profess his feelings. And hopefully, they will live happily ever after.

John Williams was nominated for two Academy Awards for his music in this film.

This new Special Edition Blu-ray includes a new audio commentary by film historian Julie Kirgo and filmmaker Peter Hankoff.  As remakes go, this is a good one. Nothing can beat the original classic, but this updated version is very enjoyable. It is fun to watch the two movies and see the differences. Some viewers, especially younger ones, will most likely enjoy the 1995 movie, which is in color. They are both entertaining.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites and is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.