Bringing Up Baby is a classic comedy film that has captured the hearts of audiences for decades. Released in 1938, this screwball comedy is a true gem of the golden age of Hollywood. Starring the legendary duo of Cary Grant and Katharine Hepburn, the movie follows the misadventures of a mild-mannered paleontologist named David Huxley, played by Grant, and an eccentric socialite named Susan Vance, played by Hepburn.
With its fast pace, witty dialogue, and hilarious situations, Bringing Up Baby has become a beloved film that continues to entertain audiences to this day. In this article, we will uncover 39 fascinating facts about the making of this iconic movie, from memorable behind-the-scenes moments to interesting trivia about the cast and crew. So, let’s dive into the world of Bringing Up Baby and discover the secrets that make it such an enduring cinematic masterpiece.
Key Takeaways:
- “Bringing Up Baby” is a timeless screwball comedy featuring Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant, with rapid-fire dialogue, slapstick humor, and a pet leopard named “Baby.”
- The film’s blend of sophisticated humor and physical comedy, along with its enduring appeal and cultural significance, makes “Bringing Up Baby” a must-watch classic for all movie lovers.
Bringing Up Baby is a classic screwball comedy.
Bringing Up Baby, released in 1938, is one of the most iconic examples of the screwball comedy genre. It is known for its fast-paced, witty dialogue, eccentric characters, and hilarious situations.
The movie stars Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant.
In Bringing Up Baby, Katharine Hepburn plays the role of Susan Vance, a free-spirited and impulsive socialite. Cary Grant portrays Dr. David Huxley, a paleontologist who gets caught up in Susan’s whirlwind of adventures.
Bringing Up Baby was directed by Howard Hawks.
Renowned director Howard Hawks was at the helm of Bringing Up Baby. He expertly brought together the comedic elements and ensured a seamless flow of the story.
Bringing Up Baby was not a box office success initially.
Despite being critically acclaimed, Bringing Up Baby was not a commercial success upon its initial release. However, it has gained a cult following over the years and is now regarded as a comedy masterpiece.
The movie was shot in just under five weeks.
Bringing Up Baby had a relatively short production timeline. The entire film was shot in just under five weeks, showcasing the efficiency and talent of the cast and crew.
The cast had impeccable comedic timing.
Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant’s exceptional comedic timing brought their characters to life in Bringing Up Baby. Their chemistry and impeccable delivery of dialogue added to the film’s comedic brilliance.
Bringing Up Baby was nominated for zero Academy Awards.
Despite its status as a comedy classic, Bringing Up Baby did not receive any Academy Award nominations. This snub did not diminish the film’s popularity among audiences and critics.
The film’s screenplay went through several revisions.
Bringing Up Baby underwent numerous revisions before reaching its final form. The script was continuously refined to enhance the comedic elements and maximize the impact of every scene.
The famous “Leopard” scene was challenging to film.
One of the most memorable scenes in the movie is when Susan Vance and Dr. David Huxley encounter a leopard. This scene required careful coordination and safety measures due to the involvement of a live animal.
Bringing Up Baby is known for its rapid-fire dialogue.
The dialogue in Bringing Up Baby is characterized by its fast pace and quick exchanges. The witty banter between the characters adds to the comedic charm of the film.
The film’s plot is centered around a dinosaur bone.
At the heart of Bringing Up Baby is a dinosaur bone that Dr. David Huxley needs for his research. The pursuit of this bone sets off a series of madcap adventures and misadventures.
Bringing Up Baby showcases a role reversal.
In the film, Susan Vance takes on the traditionally male role of pursuing the love interest, Dr. David Huxley. This role reversal was groundbreaking for its time and added an interesting dynamic to the story.
The movie features a pet leopard named “Baby”.
In Bringing Up Baby, Susan Vance owns a pet leopard named “Baby.” This eccentric detail adds to the comedic chaos and unpredictable nature of the story.
Bringing Up Baby is known for its slapstick comedy.
The film incorporates slapstick comedy, with characters getting into hilarious physical mishaps and engaging in absurd situations. The combination of clever wordplay and physical comedy creates a delightful viewing experience.
Bringing Up Baby has influenced future films.
The comedic style and screwball elements of Bringing Up Baby have had a lasting impact on the film industry. It has inspired numerous films and filmmakers in the comedy genre.
The movie’s pace is relentless.
Bringing Up Baby maintains a rapid pace throughout, with one comedic situation seamlessly leading to another. This relentless energy keeps viewers engaged and entertained from start to finish.
The film showcases the clash between social classes.
Bringing Up Baby explores the clash between the upper-class socialite world of Susan Vance and the more reserved, intellectual world of Dr. David Huxley. This contrast adds depth to the characters and provides opportunities for comedic conflict.
Bringing Up Baby was initially met with mixed reviews.
Upon its release, Bringing Up Baby received mixed reviews from critics. However, it has since been recognized as a cinematic gem and a testament to the brilliance of screwball comedies.
The movie’s title has multiple interpretations.
The title “Bringing Up Baby” can be interpreted in different ways, reflecting the various facets of the film. It can refer to raising a pet leopard, navigating the challenges of adulthood, or even the journey of life itself.
The film is filled with comedic misunderstandings.
Misunderstandings play a significant role in Bringing Up Baby, leading to hilarious situations and escalating the comedic tension. These misunderstandings add to the sense of chaos and unpredictability in the film.
The movie showcases unconventional romance.
Bringing Up Baby explores a unique and unconventional romance between Susan Vance and Dr. David Huxley. Their initial clash evolves into a witty and charming love affair that defies societal norms.
Bringing Up Baby was considered ahead of its time.
Bringing Up Baby, with its zany humor and unconventional plot, was considered ahead of its time upon its release. It pushed the boundaries of traditional comedies and paved the way for future innovations in the genre.
The film features memorable one-liners and catchphrases.
Bringing Up Baby is filled with memorable one-liners that have become iconic in the world of cinema. Lines like “I just went gay all of a sudden!” and “Because I just went GAY all of a sudden!” continue to be quoted and celebrated by fans.
The movie’s physical comedy is expertly executed.
Bringing Up Baby showcases impeccable physical comedy, with the actors delivering perfectly timed slapstick moments. Their agility and comedic prowess bring the humorous situations to life.
Bringing Up Baby has stood the test of time.
Decades after its release, Bringing Up Baby remains an audience favorite, with its timeless humor still resonating with viewers. Its ability to elicit laughter and entertain is a testament to its enduring appeal.
The film showcases a whirlwind of mistaken identities.
Mistaken identities play a crucial role in the comedic plot of Bringing Up Baby. Characters find themselves in confusing situations, leading to humorous misunderstandings and amusing chaos.
Bringing Up Baby has a memorable soundtrack.
The film’s soundtrack adds to the overall comedic atmosphere, enhancing the timing and impact of the comedic moments. The music perfectly complements the frenetic energy of the film.
The movie’s set design reflects the characters’ personalities.
The set design in Bringing Up Baby is meticulously crafted to reflect the eccentric personalities of the characters. From Susan Vance’s lavish mansion to Dr. David Huxley’s more understated environments, the settings provide insight into the characters’ lives.
The film was a departure from Katharine Hepburn’s usual roles.
Katharine Hepburn, known for her strong and independent characters, took on a more comedic and whimsical role in Bringing Up Baby. This departure showcased her versatility as an actress.
The movie’s humor is both sophisticated and slapstick.
Bringing Up Baby combines sophisticated humor, such as witty wordplay and innuendos, with slapstick comedy. This blend of humor appeals to a wide range of audience members with different comedic preferences.
Bringing Up Baby has been preserved by the Library of Congress.
The film has been recognized for its cultural significance and was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress. This preservation ensures that future generations can enjoy and appreciate its comedic brilliance.
The movie was a collaboration between RKO Pictures and Howard Hawks’ production company.
Bringing Up Baby was produced in collaboration between RKO Pictures and Howard Hawks’ production company. This partnership allowed for creative freedom and resulted in a remarkable final product.
The film emphasizes the importance of embracing spontaneity.
Bringing Up Baby encourages viewers to embrace spontaneity and let go of rigid expectations. Susan Vance’s character embodies this free-spirited approach to life, adding an element of joy and adventure to the story.
The movie balances romance and comedy.
Bringing Up Baby strikes a perfect balance between romance and comedy. The budding relationship between Susan Vance and Dr. David Huxley unfolds amidst the chaotic and humorous events, creating a heartwarming and entertaining experience.
Bringing Up Baby features physical comedy stunts.
The film includes impressive physical comedy stunts, such as characters falling, tripping, and engaging in slapstick moments. The actors’ commitment to these stunts adds an extra layer of humor to the film.
The movie’s dialogue is filled with double entendres.
Bringing Up Baby incorporates clever double entendres throughout its dialogue, adding a layer of sophistication to the humor. These subtle innuendos contribute to the film’s timeless appeal.
Bringing Up Baby has a playful and whimsical tone.
The film sets a playful and whimsical tone from the very beginning, immersing viewers in a world of eccentric characters and lighthearted humor. This delightful atmosphere contributes to its enduring popularity.
The movie’s success solidified Katharine Hepburn’s career.
Bringing Up Baby played a significant role in solidifying Katharine Hepburn’s career as a versatile and talented actress. The film highlighted her comedic abilities and paved the way for her future successes.
Bringing Up Baby is a timeless comedy classic.
Decades since its release, Bringing Up Baby remains a timeless comedy classic that continues to entertain and delight audiences. Its combination of witty dialogue, physical comedy, and unforgettable characters make it a must-watch for any movie lover.
Conclusion
Bringing Up Baby is a classic and beloved movie that has delighted audiences for decades. With its witty dialogue, fast-paced comedic scenes, and unforgettable performances by Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant, it has secured its place in cinematic history. The film’s unique blend of screwball comedy and romantic elements makes it a timeless favorite for movie enthusiasts of all ages. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its enduring charm and humor, cementing Bringing Up Baby as a must-watch for any film lover.
FAQs
Q: Who directed Bringing Up Baby?
A: Bringing Up Baby was directed by Howard Hawks, a renowned filmmaker known for his diverse range of work in various genres.
Q: When was the movie released?
A: Bringing Up Baby was released on February 18, 1938.
Q: What is the genre of Bringing Up Baby?
A: Bringing Up Baby is a screwball comedy, known for its fast-paced dialogue, slapstick humor, and zany situations.
Q: Who are the main actors in Bringing Up Baby?
A: The film stars Katharine Hepburn as Susan Vance and Cary Grant as Dr. David Huxley, the two central characters whose comedic chemistry drives the plot.
Q: Is Bringing Up Baby considered a classic?
A: Yes, Bringing Up Baby is widely regarded as a classic in the comedy genre and is often included in lists of the greatest films ever made.
Q: How long is Bringing Up Baby?
A: The movie has a runtime of approximately 102 minutes.
Q: Is Bringing Up Baby in color or black and white?
A: Bringing Up Baby is filmed in black and white, which adds to its timeless appeal.
If you enjoyed learning about "Bringing Up Baby," why not explore more classic films like "Butterfield 8"? Dive deeper into the life and career of the charming Cary Grant, one of Hollywood's most iconic leading men. Discover the intriguing world of film noir with "The Big Sleep," another masterpiece directed by Howard Hawks.
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