Gambling Ship
An early Pre-Code crime drama where Cary Grant's confidence and screen presence begin to announce the arrival of Hollywood's next great leading man.
Editorial ratings
- Cary Grant
- Story
- Direction
- Cinematography
- Entertainment
- Historical importance
Tired of the dangerous life as gambling boss, Ace Corbin 'retires' from the racket and travels cross-country by train to begin a new life with a new name. On the train, he meets Eleanor and they fall in love. Eleanor is afraid to tell Ace she's a soiled dove and Ace doesn't tell Eleanor of his shady past. Old enemies won't let Ace begin his new life, and old commitments's won't free Eleanor of her sordid ties. Ace's old life and Eleanor's deception collide with the typical results. But love conquers all!
Cary Grant plays Ace Corbin, under the direction of Louis J. Gasnier, released in 1933.
Featured quote
“Everybody deserves one good chance.”
Introduction
A fascinating early Cary Grant film set aboard an offshore casino.
The Story
Crime, temptation, romance, and honor collide at sea.
Production & Behind the Scenes
Inspired by real gambling ships operating off Southern California.
Cary Grant's Performance
Shows Grant's emerging naturalism and screen charisma.
Direction & Themes
Explores temptation, integrity, redemption, and moral ambiguity.
Historical Context
A classic example of Pre-Code Hollywood and Depression-era storytelling.
Legacy & Influence
An increasingly valued early chapter in Cary Grant's career.
Gallery
Production & release
1932
Archie Leach becomes Cary Grant
A new screen identity is born.
Early 1933
Film enters production
Columbia begins shooting.
Sept. 15, 1933
Premiere
Gambling Ship opens in theaters.
1934
Production Code enforcement begins
The Pre-Code era ends.
1960s–1980s
Rediscovered on television
Finds new audiences in broadcast rotation.
Today
An important early Grant film
Appreciated for its Pre-Code and biographical value.
Cast.
Cary Grant as Ace Corbin
Benita Hume as Eleanor La Velle
Jack La Rue as Pete Manning
Glenda Farrell as Jeanne Sands
Roscoe Karns as Blooey
Arthur Vinton as Joe Burke
Charles Williams as Baby Face (Charles T. Pearson Jr.)
Full billed cast of Gambling Ship (1933).
Players in billing order, with the characters they play.
- Cary Grantas Ace Corbin
- Benita Humeas Eleanor La Velle
- Jack La Rueas Pete Manning
- Glenda Farrellas Jeanne Sands
- Roscoe Karnsas Blooey
- Arthur Vintonas Joe Burke
- Charles Williamsas Baby Face (Charles T. Pearson Jr.)
- Edwin Maxwellas District Attorney Travers
- Spencer Chartersas Detective
- Hooper Atchleyas Doctor (uncredited)
- Carrie Daumeryas Casino Patron (uncredited)
- Edward Garganas Deputy (uncredited)
- Arthur Hoytas Roger (uncredited)
- Marc Lawrenceas Chicago Hood (uncredited)
- Theodore Lorchas Gambler (uncredited)
- Gail Patrickas (uncredited)
- Syd Sayloras Sailor (uncredited)
Crew.
- DirectorLouis J. Gasnier
- DirectorMax Marcin
- Director of PhotographyCharles Lang
- ScreenplayMax Marcin
- StoryPeter Ruric
- WriterSeton I. Miller
A quiet dispatch,
once a month.
One considered essay in your inbox each month. No promotions, no algorithms, no forwarding. Unsubscribe with a single click.
Other studies.
Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr headline an elegant romantic comedy exploring whether the perfect partner exists—or whether perfection itself is an illusion.
A thoughtful wartime satire blending romance, comedy, and commentary on celebrity culture.
Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn create one of cinema's most elegant romantic mysteries—a thrilling game of deception, danger, and unexpected love.