Written by Cherida Allman
Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
The Awful Truth is a classic romantic comedy film that has captivated audiences since its release in 1937. Directed by Leo McCarey and starring Cary Grant and Irene Dunne, the movie tells the hilarious and heartwarming story of a couple, Jerry and Lucy Warriner, who decide to separate and file for divorce over suspicions of infidelity. As they embark on a journey to undermine each other’s potential new relationships, they soon realize that their love for each other is far from over.
With its witty dialogue, charming performances, and unforgettable comedic moments, The Awful Truth continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest movies of its genre. In this article, we delve deeper into the movie and uncover 43 intriguing facts about its making, the cast and crew, and its enduring legacy. From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to the impact it had on future romantic comedies, get ready to discover fascinating details about this timeless film.
Key Takeaways:
- The Awful Truth, a classic movie from 1937, was a big hit and received critical acclaim. It’s known for its witty dialogue, hilarious performances, and timeless themes, making it a must-watch for all movie lovers.
- Cary Grant and Irene Dunne’s on-screen chemistry, the film’s fast-paced humor, and its exploration of trust and honesty in relationships make The Awful Truth a timeless and beloved classic for audiences of all ages.
The Awful Truth was released in 1937.
Directed by Leo McCarey, this classic screwball comedy hit the silver screen in 1937.
The film starred Cary Grant and Irene Dunne.
Cary Grant and Irene Dunne delivered remarkable performances as a married couple on the brink of divorce.
It was a major box office success.
The Awful Truth became a commercial hit, earning over three times its budget at the box office.
The screenplay was based on a play.
Arthur Richman’s play of the same name served as the inspiration for the film’s witty script.
The movie received six Academy Award nominations.
The Awful Truth garnered nominations for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Writing, and Best Film Editing.
Cary Grant improvised much of his dialogue.
Known for his improvisational skills, Grant added his own humorous touches to many of his lines in the film.
The Awful Truth was a landmark in the screwball comedy genre.
The film is regarded as one of the defining examples of the screwball comedy genre, with its rapid-fire dialogue and comedic misunderstandings.
It was remade in 1953.
The success of the original film led to a 1953 remake, titled “Let’s Do It Again,” starring Jane Wyman and Ray Milland.
The movie showcases the battle of wits between the estranged couple.
The Awful Truth revolves around the comedic and sometimes absurd attempts of Jerry and Lucy Warriner to outwit each other.
The dog who played Mr. Smith won the hearts of the audience.
Astaire the wire fox terrier, who portrayed the mischievous dog Mr. Smith, stole the show with his scene-stealing antics.
The film was known for its fast-paced dialogue.
The snappy and witty dialogue exchanges between the characters added to the film’s charm and comedic timing.
The Awful Truth received critical acclaim upon its release.
Critics praised the film for its hilarious performances, sharp writing, and expert direction.
It won the Best Director award at the Oscars.
Leo McCarey took home the Academy Award for Best Director for his work on The Awful Truth.
The movie was a product of the golden age of Hollywood.
The Awful Truth was made during a time when Hollywood was producing some of its most memorable and enduring films.
The film solidified Cary Grant’s status as a Hollywood leading man.
Cary Grant’s impeccable comedic timing and charm in The Awful Truth launched him into the stratosphere of Hollywood stardom.
Irene Dunne’s performance was praised by critics.
Dunne’s portrayal of Lucy Warriner earned her critical acclaim and showcased her versatility as an actress.
It was a groundbreaking film for its time.
The Awful Truth pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable humor in films of its era.
The movie’s success inspired other romantic comedies.
After the release of The Awful Truth, the screwball comedy genre gained popularity, inspiring numerous similar films.
The film’s title is a nod to its humorous take on marriage.
The Awful Truth refers to the often-comic aspects of relationships and the challenges faced in marriages.
The movie was a precursor to modern romantic comedies.
With its witty banter and romantic entanglements, The Awful Truth set the stage for future rom-coms.
The Awful Truth was a commercial and critical success.
The film was not just a hit with audiences but also received accolades from critics for its seamless blend of comedy and romance.
Cary Grant and Irene Dunne had great on-screen chemistry.
The stellar chemistry between Grant and Dunne added depth and believability to their characters’ relationship.
The film was innovative in its use of physical comedy.
The Awful Truth relied on physical comedy and slapstick humor to enhance its comedic moments.
The movie’s success led to a series of collaborations between Grant and McCarey.
Cary Grant and director Leo McCarey went on to work together on several other successful projects after The Awful Truth.
The Awful Truth received an honorary Oscar in 2001.
In recognition of its enduring legacy, the film was awarded an honorary Oscar for its significant contribution to cinema.
The movie explored themes of trust and honesty in relationships.
The Awful Truth delved into the complexities of trust and the importance of honesty in maintaining a healthy relationship.
The film’s comedic timing still holds up today.
Even after decades, The Awful Truth’s comedic timing remains as sharp and effective as ever.
The movie’s screenplay was nominated for an Academy Award.
The witty and well-crafted script of The Awful Truth received recognition with an Academy Award nomination.
It features memorable supporting characters.
The film is filled with memorable and quirky supporting characters that add depth and humor to the story.
The Awful Truth was a commercial and critical success.
The film’s box office success and critical acclaim solidified its status as a beloved classic.
The movie’s blend of comedy and romance captivated audiences.
The perfect balance of humor and romance in The Awful Truth captivated audiences and made it a timeless favorite.
The film was praised for its genuine and relatable portrayal of relationships.
The Awful Truth resonated with viewers due to its authentic depiction of the joys and complications of being in a relationship.
It remains one of the best examples of the screwball comedy genre.
The Awful Truth continues to be hailed as one of the finest screwball comedies ever made.
The movie’s success catapulted director Leo McCarey’s career.
Leo McCarey’s success with The Awful Truth propelled him to become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after directors.
The film’s humor offers a welcome escape from reality.
The Awful Truth’s delightful humor provides audiences with a lighthearted escape from the challenges of everyday life.
The movie’s soundtrack adds to its whimsical nature.
The Awful Truth’s playful and energetic soundtrack enhances the film’s whimsical tone.
It has been preserved in the National Film Registry.
The Awful Truth’s enduring cultural significance led to its inclusion in the National Film Registry, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
The film is celebrated for its timeless appeal.
Decades after its release, The Awful Truth continues to entertain audiences with its timeless humor and engaging story.
The Awful Truth is a must-watch for fans of classic cinema.
For fans of classic movies, The Awful Truth is an essential part of film history and a delightful cinematic experience.
The film’s witty dialogue has become iconic.
The Awful Truth’s memorable and quotable lines have become iconic in the world of cinema.
The Awful Truth was a pivotal film in Cary Grant’s career.
The success and acclaim of The Awful Truth helped solidify Cary Grant’s status as one of the greatest actors of his time.
The movie’s humor transcends generations.
The Awful Truth’s universal humor continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, making it a timeless classic.
The Awful Truth has been remastered and is available for modern audiences to enjoy.
The film has been remastered, preserving its original charm, and is widely accessible for new generations to discover and appreciate.
In conclusion, The Awful Truth is a beloved classic that remains a testament to the enduring power of comedy and romance in cinema. Its blend of witty dialogue, hilarious performances, and timeless themes has made it a favorite among audiences for decades. Whether you’re a fan of screwball comedies or simply appreciate a well-crafted film, The Awful Truth is a must-watch that continues to entertain and delight audiences of all generations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “The Awful Truth” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its hilarious comedy and brilliant performances. This film highlights the talents of the iconic duo, Cary Grant and Irene Dunne, who perfectly capture the essence of the witty and charming characters. With its sharp writing, clever dialogue, and engaging storyline, “The Awful Truth” remains a must-watch for movie lovers of all generations. Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies or simply enjoy a good laugh, this film is sure to leave you entertained and wanting more.
FAQs
1. When was “The Awful Truth” released?
“The Awful Truth” was released on October 21, 1937.
2. Who directed “The Awful Truth”?
The film was directed by Leo McCarey.
3. What is the plot of “The Awful Truth”?
“The Awful Truth” follows the story of a married couple, Jerry and Lucy Warriner, who decide to divorce due to their suspicions of infidelity. As they each try to move on and find new love interests, they soon realize that they still have feelings for each other.
4. Who are the main actors in “The Awful Truth”?
The film stars Cary Grant as Jerry Warriner and Irene Dunne as Lucy Warriner, with supporting roles played by Ralph Bellamy and Alexander D’Arcy.
5. Did “The Awful Truth” receive any awards?
Yes, “The Awful Truth” was nominated for six Academy Awards and won the Best Director award for Leo McCarey.
6. What is the running time of the movie?
The running time of “The Awful Truth” is approximately 1 hour and 31 minutes.
7. Is “The Awful Truth” available for streaming?
Yes, “The Awful Truth” is widely available for streaming on various platforms, making it easily accessible to audiences worldwide.
8. Is “The Awful Truth” suitable for all ages?
The film is generally considered suitable for all ages, but parents may want to review the content to ensure it is appropriate for younger viewers.
9. Does “The Awful Truth” have any memorable quotes?
Yes, the film is filled with memorable quotes, such as “Go ahead and marry him. Be miserable. But you won’t find happiness with…- who’s that girl again, Dan?” and “You’ve been awfully good to me, Jerry. Better than I’ve been to you.”
10. Is “The Awful Truth” a must-watch?
Absolutely! “The Awful Truth” is a classic romantic comedy that has stood the test of time. Its brilliant performances, witty humor, and delightful story make it a must-watch for any fan of the genre.
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