Classic Film Review “Bringing Up Baby” by Holly Woodland: 5 out of 5 Stars
For those of you who enjoy classic Hollywood films or those who just want to be entertained with something the whole family can enjoy (slim pickings now-a-days), I highly recommend, “Bringing Up Baby”. Released in 1938 and directed by Howard Hawks it stars Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburn in a madcap and hilarious screwball comedy only old Hollywood films now seem to capture. In fact, it is the favorite of director Paul Feig (of “Bridesmaids” fame) who has seen it well over 50 times (or so he has confided to me).
Cary Grant stars as a nerdy (yes, I said “nerdy”) paleontologist looking for a missing dinosaur bone which only Katherine Hepburn, an outspoken and eccentric heiress can acquire. Then there are the leopards (two in fact) “Baby”, the tame song loving pet and the other, an escapee from the zoo, and that’s the easy part. The rest is non-stop site gags and outrageous situations from beginning to end. But don’t worry too much about following the plot (actually, I doubt anyone could!), just sit back and enjoy the ride.
Once again, we see Katherine Hepburn as a self-assured woman of her time. How different and refreshing from the so-called independent Miley Cirus and Beyonce role models thrown at us today. Miss Hepburn’s character may have her faults, but she is always the sophisticate with genuine class. Cary Grant, is in top comical form and even in his glasses and studious appearance (and even a ladies robe), no one is more debonair. “Bringing Up Baby” also includes a prestigious cast of supporting actors, seldom seen working together in one film in their time (including the fox terrier from “The Thin Man” series).
With all the current headlines of today, what a joy to watch some good, clean, silly fun with two treasured performers of the past. Although fast-talking and paced, if you have the opportunity to see it, I promise you’ll have a much-needed escape!
(“Bringing Up Baby” original trailer)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldUqdokjr0Y
