Bringing up baby

Definition

Bringing Up Baby is a classic screwball comedy film directed by Howard Hawks, released in 1938, known for its fast-paced dialogue, physical comedy, and quirky characters. The film exemplifies the influence of Classical Hollywood directors who utilized comedic techniques to create a blend of romance and absurdity, showcasing the era's storytelling style and production values.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The film stars Katharine Hepburn as a quirky heiress and Cary Grant as a paleontologist, whose misadventures with a leopard drive the plot's comedic elements.
2. Bringing Up Baby was initially a box office failure but gained recognition over time, becoming a classic in American cinema due to its innovative style and memorable performances.
3. The film features slapstick humor and rapid-fire dialogue that exemplifies the screwball comedy genre's trademark characteristics.
4. The dynamic between Hepburn and Grant highlights the evolving roles of women in film during the 1930s, showcasing a strong female character who challenges traditional gender norms.
5. Howard Hawks' direction helped define the screwball comedy genre, influencing many filmmakers and set a standard for romantic comedies in the years to come.

Review Questions

• How does 'Bringing Up Baby' reflect the characteristics of screwball comedy?
  • 'Bringing Up Baby' exemplifies screwball comedy through its use of witty banter and absurd scenarios that create humor from misunderstandings and chaos. The rapid pace of dialogue and physical comedy involving characters like Hepburn's heiress and Grant's paleontologist showcases the genre's trademark elements. The film's emphasis on gender dynamics also reflects the playful subversion of traditional roles, making it a quintessential example of screwball comedy.
• Discuss Howard Hawks' influence on the film's comedic style and overall impact on Hollywood.
  • 'Bringing Up Baby' showcases Howard Hawks' distinctive directorial style characterized by his ability to blend genres seamlessly while maintaining sharp dialogue and engaging character interactions. His influence helped shape the film into a defining piece of screwball comedy that not only entertained audiences but also set benchmarks for future romantic comedies. Hawks' direction emphasized strong female characters and clever storytelling techniques that resonated through Hollywood's golden age.
• Evaluate the significance of 'Bringing Up Baby' in terms of its cultural impact and legacy within American cinema.
  • 'Bringing Up Baby' holds significant cultural impact as it evolved from initial commercial failure to being recognized as a classic that influenced the romantic comedy genre. Its legacy lies in its innovative comedic techniques and portrayal of strong female characters challenging societal norms. The film paved the way for future filmmakers to experiment with narrative styles and character dynamics, establishing it as an enduring reference point in American cinema history that still resonates with contemporary audiences.

Related terms

Screwball Comedy: A subgenre of comedy that emerged during the Great Depression, characterized by its witty dialogue, improbable situations, and strong female leads.

Howard Hawks: An influential American director known for his versatility in various genres, including comedies, westerns, and film noir, who played a key role in shaping Hollywood's golden age.

Cinematography: The art of photography and visual storytelling in filmmaking, encompassing camera angles, lighting, and shot composition to enhance the narrative.