Big Brown Eyes is a 1936 comedy film directed by Raoul Walsh, featuring Cary Grant as Danny Barr, a New York police detective pursuing a gang of jewel thieves. The story revolves around a bustling Manhattan hotel barbershop frequented by both the underworld and law enforcement. Danny's girlfriend, Eve Fallon, played by Joan Bennett, works as a manicurist in the barbershop and later becomes a cub reporter. Together, Eve and Danny team up to entrap one of the thieves after a murder occurs. The film is known for its sharp-edged dialogue and clever complications, showcasing early flashes of Cary Grant's enduring comedic persona.
Plot
Big Brown Eyes follows the story of a New York police detective, Danny Barr, played by Cary Grant, who is on the trail of a gang of jewel thieves. The plot unfolds in a bustling Manhattan hotel barbershop that serves as a meeting point for both criminals and law enforcement. Danny's girlfriend, Eve Fallon, portrayed by Joan Bennett, works as a manicurist in the barbershop and later transitions into a cub reporter. As the narrative progresses, Eve and Danny join forces to ensnare one of the thieves following a murder within their circle. The film is characterized by its witty dialogue and intricate twists, offering a glimpse into Cary Grant's early comedic talent.
Trailer
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Cast
- Cary Grant as Detective Sgt. Danny Barr
- Joan Bennett as Eve Fallon
- Walter Pidgeon as Richard Morey
- Lloyd Nolan as Detective Tom O'Hara
- Marjorie Gateson as Mrs. Morey
- Isabel Jewell as Lil
Director: Raoul Walsh
Release Date (DVD): May 27, 2014
Theme
The theme of Big Brown Eyes can vary depending on the context of the source you are referring to. In the 1936 film "Big Brown Eyes," the theme revolves around crime, detective work, romance, and comedy.
Trivia & Fun Fact
Cast and Characters: In the film, Joan Bennett plays Eve Fallon, a sassy manicurist turned crusading reporter, while Cary Grant portrays Detective Sgt. Danny Barr. Walter Pidgeon takes on the role of private detective Richard Morey, Marjorie Gateson plays Mrs. Cole, and Isabel Jewell and Lloyd Nolan are part of the supporting cast.
Plot Summary: The storyline revolves around Eve Fallon and Danny Barr's pursuit of jewelry thieves after a baby is killed in a related dispute in Central Park. The duo goes rogue to catch the killers, with unexpected twists and turns in the narrative.
Pre-Code Elements: Despite being released after the enforcement of the Production Code in 1934, Big Brown Eyes contains dialogue and plot points that wouldn't be out of place in pre-Code films. The film also includes a subtle reference to the movie "She Done Him Wrong" (1933), where Cary Grant starred alongside Mae West.
Director and Script: Directed by Raoul Walsh, the film is known for its fast-paced dialogue and engaging script, which was based on two short stories by James Edward Grant. Walsh effectively keeps the dialogue-packed script moving) swiftly throughout the film.
Visual Elements: The film features Cary Grant in a role slightly different from his usual suave characters, portraying a hardboiled cop alongside Joan Bennett's smart-mouthed character. Walter Pidgeon surprises the audience with his villainous role, adding depth to the storyline.
