The Howards of Virginia
The birth of a nation through the eyes of an ordinary man with extraordinary convictions.
Editorial ratings
- Cary Grant
- Story
- Direction
- Cinematography
- Entertainment
- Historical importance
Beautiful young Virginian Jane steps down from her proper aristocratic upbringing when she marries down-to-earth surveyor Matt Howard. Matt joins the Colonial forces in their fight for freedom against England. Matt will meet Jane's father in the battlefield.
Cary Grant plays Matt Howard, under the direction of Frank Lloyd, released in 1940.
Featured quote
“An important patriotic role that showcases Grant's dramatic restraint.”
Introduction
A sweeping historical drama examining liberty, democracy, and citizenship through the experiences of an ordinary Virginian.
The Story
Matt Howard's personal journey mirrors the colonies' transformation into a new nation.
Production & Behind the Scenes
Frank Lloyd directed one of Columbia Pictures' major prestige productions with elaborate period detail.
Cary Grant's Performance
Grant delivers a sincere, understated portrayal built on integrity rather than charisma.
Frank Lloyd's Direction & Themes
Explores liberty, citizenship, family, sacrifice, and democratic responsibility.
Historical Context
Released in 1940 as democratic ideals faced growing international threats.
Legacy & Influence
A unique and often overlooked chapter in Cary Grant's remarkably versatile career.
Gallery
Production & release
Colonial Virginia
Matt Howard begins life as a planter.
American Revolution
Political awakening as the colonies edge toward independence.
September 19, 1940
Film released.
1941
Academy Award nominations.
Today
Recognized as one of Grant's most distinctive historical performances.
Cast.
Cary Grant as Matt Howard
Martha Scott as Jane Peyton-Howard
Cedric Hardwicke as Fleetwood Peyton
Alan Marshal as Roger Peyton
Richard Carlson as Thomas Jefferson
Paul Kelly as Capt. Jabez Allen
Irving Bacon as Tom Norton
Full billed cast of The Howards of Virginia (1940).
Players in billing order, with the characters they play.
- Cary Grantas Matt Howard
- Martha Scottas Jane Peyton-Howard
- Cedric Hardwickeas Fleetwood Peyton
- Alan Marshalas Roger Peyton
- Richard Carlsonas Thomas Jefferson
- Paul Kellyas Capt. Jabez Allen
- Irving Baconas Tom Norton
- Elisabeth Risdonas Aunt Clarissa
- Anne Revereas Mrs. Betsy Norton
- Tom Drakeas James Howard at 16
- Phil Tayloras Peyton Howard at 18
- Rita Quigleyas Mary Howard at 17
- Libby Tayloras Dicey
- Richard Gainesas Patrick Henry
- George Houstonas George Washington
- Ralph Byrdas James Howard
- Dickie Jonesas Matt Howard at 12
- Buster Phelpsas Thomas Jefferson at 11
- Wade Boteleras Uncle Reuben
- Mary Fieldas Susan Howard
- Roy Gordonas Col. Jefferson
- Charles Francisas Mr. Douglas
- Peter Cushingas Leslie Stephens
- John Gallaudetas Backwoodsman (uncredited)
- J. Anthony Hughesas Tidewater Representative (uncredited)
- Terry Mooreas Neighbor Girl (uncredited)
- Jason Robards Sr.as Backwoodsman (uncredited)
- Dan Whiteas Will (uncredited)
- Conrad Binyonas Neighbor Boy
- Bobby Callahan
- Lane Chandleras Major
- Vernon Downingas John Walker
- Eddie Dunnas Dunkel
- Sarah Edwardsas Neighbor Girl
- Tom Faddenas Backwoodsman
- Joe Fareyas Dunkel
- Leon Fareyas Dunkel
- Ralph Gilliam
- Jesse Gravesas Robert
- J. Franklin Harrison
Crew.
- Art DirectionJohn B. Goodman
- DirectorFrank Lloyd
- Director of PhotographyBert Glennon
- EditorPaul Weatherwax
- Original Music ComposerRichard Hageman
- ProducerFrank Lloyd
- ScreenplaySidney Buchman
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