46 Facts About The Movie The Trouble With Harry

“The Trouble with Harry” was released in 1955.

This delightful black comedy was directed by the master of suspense himself, Alfred Hitchcock.

The film is set in a small Vermont village.

The picturesque setting adds to the charm and quirkiness of the story.

“The Trouble with Harry” marked Hitchcock’s first collaboration with composer Bernard Herrmann.

Herrmann’s score perfectly complements the film’s whimsical and suspenseful moments.

The movie stars Edmund Gwenn, known for his role as Santa Claus in “Miracle on 34th Street.”

Gwenn delivers a memorable performance as Captain Albert Wiles, an eccentric retired sea captain.

Shirley MacLaine made her film debut in “The Trouble with Harry.”

MacLaine’s exceptional talent shines through in her portrayal of Jennifer Rogers, a young woman caught up in the mysterious events surrounding Harry’s death.

The character of Harry is never shown alive in the film.

Instead, his lifeless body becomes the catalyst for a series of comedic and suspenseful encounters.

“The Trouble with Harry” blends elements of comedy, mystery, and romance.

Hitchcock expertly weaves these genres together to create a unique and captivating cinematic experience.

The movie received mixed reviews upon its initial release.

While some critics hailed it as a masterpiece, others were puzzled by its unconventional storytelling.

Hitchcock reportedly considered “The Trouble with Harry” to be one of his personal favorites.

He appreciated its lighter tone and the opportunity to experiment with different storytelling techniques.

The film was adapted from a novel by Jack Trevor Story.

Hitchcock was drawn to the eccentric and darkly humorous nature of the story.

Several of Hitchcock’s signature themes are present in “The Trouble with Harry.”

Including mistaken identities, hidden secrets, and a touch of macabre humor.

The movie features stunning autumnal visuals.

The vibrant colors of the New England foliage create a striking backdrop for the unfolding events.

“The Trouble with Harry” was one of Hitchcock’s first films shot in Technicolor.

The vibrant color palette adds to the film’s visual appeal and enhances the natural beauty of the setting.

The screenplay for the movie was written by John Michael Hayes.

Hitchcock appreciated Hayes’ talents for crafting witty dialogue and intriguing character dynamics.

The film’s original title was “Your Neighborhood Undertaker.”

Hitchcock felt that this title gave away too much of the plot and decided to go with “The Trouble with Harry” instead.

The movie was filmed on location in Vermont.

Hitchcock insisted on capturing the authentic charm of the rural setting.

The decision to set the movie in Vermont was due to Hitchcock’s love for the picturesque New England landscape.

He thought it provided the perfect backdrop for the quirky and unconventional story.

“The Trouble with Harry” features a memorable cast of eccentric characters.

Each with their own secrets and quirks, adding depth and intrigue to the story.

The film was not a commercial success upon its release.

However, it has gained a cult following over the years and is now appreciated as a unique entry in Hitchcock’s filmography.

One of the film’s standout scenes involves a discussion about burial traditions.

This darkly comedic exchange between the characters adds a touch of morbid humor to the film.

“The Trouble with Harry” features Hitchcock’s trademark cameo.

He can be seen walking past a parked car early in the film.

Hitchcock takes a humorous approach to death and murder in “The Trouble with Harry.”

The film is a departure from his more serious and suspenseful works.

Some of the film’s humor comes from the characters’ nonchalant attitude towards Harry’s dead body.

They treat the situation as a mere inconvenience rather than a cause for panic.

“The Trouble with Harry” was a departure from Hitchcock’s usual suspenseful storytelling.

He embraced the opportunity to showcase his versatility as a filmmaker.

The film’s lighthearted tone and humor can be attributed to Hitchcock’s desire for a change of pace.

He wanted to challenge himself and explore different genres.

“The Trouble with Harry” features some clever dialogue exchanges.

The playful banter between the characters adds to the film’s overall charm.

The movie’s score was composed by Bernard Herrmann, who would later collaborate with Hitchcock on several other films.

Herrmann’s music perfectly captures the whimsical and mysterious atmosphere of “The Trouble with Harry.”

The film was not a box office success, but it received critical acclaim.

Critics praised its unique blend of humor and suspense, as well as the standout performances from the cast.

“The Trouble with Harry” was Hitchcock’s first film to be released by Paramount Pictures.

He had previously worked with various other studios, but Paramount became his home for several of his later films.

The movie was shot in just 40 days.

Hitchcock was known for his efficiency in filmmaking, and “The Trouble with Harry” was no exception.

Despite its initial mixed reception, the film has since gained a reputation as a cult classic.

Its unique blend of genres and quirky storytelling have endeared it to audiences over the years.

“The Trouble with Harry” showcases Hitchcock’s mastery of visual storytelling.

He skillfully uses the camera to enhance the comedic and suspenseful moments throughout the film.

The movie’s opening credits were designed by Saul Bass, a frequent collaborator with Hitchcock.

Bass’ innovative and stylish designs set the tone for the film.

Hitchcock was known for his meticulous attention to detail, and “The Trouble with Harry” is no exception.

Every element, from the costumes to the set design, is carefully crafted to create a cohesive visual experience.

The film’s humor is often dark and macabre.

Hitchcock’s unique blend of comedy and suspense keeps audiences on the edge of their seats while also eliciting laughs.

“The Trouble with Harry” was Hitchcock’s only film to be released under the Paramount banner in the 1950s.

He later moved on to other studios, including Universal and Warner Bros.

The film’s screenplay earned an Academy Award nomination.

John Michael Hayes‘ witty and clever writing was recognized by the Academy.

“The Trouble with Harry” was a departure from Hitchcock’s usual psychological thrillers.

He wanted to challenge himself and explore a different side of storytelling.

The movie was shot in Technicolor, giving it a vibrant and visually appealing look.

The colors pop off the screen, adding to the overall charm of the film.

Hitchcock intentionally cast lesser-known actors in “The Trouble with Harry.”

He wanted to avoid distracting audiences with familiar faces and allow the characters to shine on their own.

The film’s ending leaves some unanswered questions.

Hitchcock leaves it up to the viewers’ imagination to decide the fate of the characters and the resolution of the story.

“The Trouble with Harry” demonstrates Hitchcock’s ability to successfully venture outside of his comfort zone.

He proves that he can excel in comedy just as much as in suspense.

The movie’s dialogue is filled with clever and memorable lines.

Hitchcock’s attention to detail extends to the script, ensuring that each line adds depth and humor to the story.

The film’s unique blend of genres has led to its classification as a “black comedy mystery.”

It defies easy categorization, making it all the more intriguing for audiences.

“The Trouble with Harry” was not a commercial success during its initial release.

However, it has since gained a devoted following who appreciate its unconventional storytelling and dark humor.

Hitchcock’s experimentation in “The Trouble with Harry” paved the way for future filmmakers to push boundaries and explore new genres.

The film serves as a testament to his creativity and versatility as a director.

In conclusion, “The Trouble with Harry” is a unique entry in Hitchcock’s filmography, showcasing his ability to masterfully blend comedy, mystery, and romance. Its quirky characters, clever dialogue, and stunning visuals make it a must-watch for fans of Hitchcock and lovers of unconventional storytelling. So grab some popcorn and delve into this hidden gem of a film!

Conclusion

Overall, “The Trouble with Harry” is a classic movie that combines elements of comedy, mystery, and romance in a unique and entertaining way. With an exceptional cast, beautiful cinematography, and a witty script, it captivates viewers from start to finish.

The film’s clever storyline and Hitchcock’s signature direction make it a must-watch for fans of his work and lovers of cinema in general. Despite its initial mixed reception, “The Trouble with Harry” has stood the test of time and continues to be appreciated for its unconventional approach to storytelling.

Whether you’re a Hitchcock aficionado or simply looking for a delightful movie to enjoy, “The Trouble with Harry” is a gem that shouldn’t be missed.

FAQs

Q: Who directed “The Trouble with Harry”?

A: The movie was directed by the legendary filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock.

Q: When was “The Trouble with Harry” released?

A: The film was released on October 3, 1955.

Q: What genre does “The Trouble with Harry” fall under?

A: It is a black comedy mystery film.

Q: Who are the main actors in the movie?

A: The film stars Edmund Gwenn, John Forsythe, Shirley MacLaine, and Mildred Natwick, among others.

Q: What is the plot of “The Trouble with Harry”?

A: The movie revolves around the accidental death of a man named Harry and the peculiar reactions of the townspeople who find his body.

Q: Was “The Trouble with Harry” a critical success?

A: Initially, the film received mixed reviews, but it has gained a cult following over time and is now considered a classic.

Q: Where was the movie filmed?

A: “The Trouble with Harry” was filmed in Vermont, USA.

Q: Is “The Trouble with Harry” based on a book?

A: Yes, the film is based on a novel of the same name by Jack Trevor Story.

Q: Does “The Trouble with Harry” contain Hitchcock’s famous cameo?

A: Yes, Alfred Hitchcock can be seen in a brief cameo appearance early in the movie.

Q: Can you recommend similar movies to “The Trouble with Harry”?

A: If you enjoyed “The Trouble with Harry,” you might also appreciate other Hitchcock classics such as “Rear Window,” “North by Northwest,” and “Vertigo.