The Awful Truth is a 1937 American screwball comedy film directed by Leo McCarey and starring Irene Dunne and Cary Grant. The film is based on the 1922 play "The Awful Truth" by Arthur Richman and revolves around a distrustful rich couple who begin divorce proceedings, only to interfere with each other's romances. The movie is known for its improvisational dialogue and comic elements, and it was released in theaters in the United States on October 21, 1937. The story follows a married couple who file an amicable divorce but find it harder to let go of each other than they initially thought. The film is recognized for its pure comedy, bright humor, and fast-paced rhythm, making it a classic in the comedy genre.
Plot
The story follows Linda and Jerry, who are getting a divorce but find it harder to let go of each other than they initially thought. The film is known for its improvisational dialogue and comic elements, as well as its exploration of themes such as love, trust, deceit, and vanity. The movie features several risqué moments that were considered daring for the time, including double entendres, exposed underwear, and a character "goosing" a pompous woman. The film was shot in just six weeks, which was a record for a film of its genre at the time.
Cast
- Irene Dunne as Lucy Warriner
- Cary Grant as Jerry Warriner
- Ralph Bellamy as Daniel Leeson
- Alexander D'Arcy as Armand Duvalle
- Cecil Cunningham as Aunt Patsy
- Molly Lamont as Barbara Vance
- Esther Dale as Mrs. Leeson
Director: Leo McCarey
Writer: Viña Delmar, Arthur Richman, Sidney Buchman
Box office Gross: No information
Distributor: Columbia Pictures
Genre: Comedy
Release Date (Theaters): Oct 21, 1937
Release Date (Streaming): Apr 16, 2012
Themes & Reception
The Awful Truth explores themes of love, trust, deceit, and vanity. The story delves into the complexities of relationships and the challenges of letting go, as the main characters, a married couple, struggle to part ways despite filing for an amicable divorce
The film is celebrated for its pure comedy, bright humor, and fast-paced rhythm, making it a classic in the comedy genre. It has been praised for its improvisational dialogue and comedic elements, and it continues to be appreciated for its enduring entertainment value.
Challenges Faced
The film was shot in just six weeks, which was a record for a film of its genre at the time. The quick production schedule posed a challenge, but the movie's success is a testament to the talent and efficiency of the cast and crew.
Settings, Visual Styles, & Techniques
The film is set in the 1930s and features the visual style and techniques characteristic of screwball comedies of that era. It showcases the elegant and sophisticated aesthetic of the time, coupled with the fast-paced and witty dialogue that are hallmarks of the genre.
Trivia and Fun Facts
- The film is based on the 1922 play "The Awful Truth" by Arthur Richman.
- It was directed by Leo McCarey, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Viña Delmar.
- The main cast includes Irene Dunne, Cary Grant, Ralph Bellamy, Alexander D'Arcy, Cecil Cunningham, Molly Lamont, and Esther Dale.
- The movie is known for its daring and risqué moments, including double entendres and comedic situations that were considered bold for the time.