Madame Butterfly
A timeless tragedy—and one of Cary Grant's earliest steps toward Hollywood stardom.
Editorial ratings
- Cary Grant
- Story
- Direction
- Cinematography
- Entertainment
- Historical importance
Pinkerton marries Cho-Cho San in Japan, whilst on shore leave. When he leaves, she keeps his Japanese home as he left it. He returns three years later, having married again in America, and tells Cho-Cho that their affair is over. She has had a child in his absence, who is sent to her family, before she kills herself.
Cary Grant plays Lieutenant Pinkerton, under the direction of Marion Gering, released in 1932.
Featured quote
“Documents Grant's rapid development during his first year at Paramount.”
Introduction
A prestige adaptation of the famous tragic romance and another milestone in Grant's apprenticeship at Paramount.
The Story
Cho-Cho San's unwavering devotion collides with Pinkerton's temporary view of their marriage, leading inexorably to tragedy.
Production & Behind the Scenes
A lavish Paramount production distinguished by Victor Milner's cinematography and Marion Gering's restrained direction.
Cary Grant's Performance
Grant's natural confidence and understated acting continue to evolve in the supporting role of Lt. Charlie Sharpless.
Marion Gering's Direction & Themes
Themes of devotion, honor, cultural misunderstanding, innocence, and sacrifice, rendered with quiet gravity.
Historical Context
A notable Pre-Code literary adaptation and an important early step in Cary Grant's Hollywood career.
Legacy & Influence
An important early Paramount prestige picture and a key film in Grant's artistic evolution.
Gallery
Production & release
1932
Cary Grant signs with Paramount Pictures.
September 1932
Devil and the Deep released — Grant's feature debut.
November 4, 1932
Madame Butterfly released.
1933
Mae West collaborations bring Grant to wider attention.
1937
The Awful Truth establishes Grant as a major star.
Cast.
Sylvia Sidney as Cho-cho San
Cary Grant as Lieutenant Pinkerton
Charles Ruggles as Lieutenant Barton
Irving Pichel as Yamadori
Helen Jerome Eddy as Cho-cho San's Mother
Edmund Breese as Cho-cho San's Grandfather
Louise Carter as Suzuki
Full billed cast of Madame Butterfly (1932).
Players in billing order, with the characters they play.
- Sylvia Sidneyas Cho-cho San
- Cary Grantas Lieutenant Pinkerton
- Charles Rugglesas Lieutenant Barton
- Irving Pichelas Yamadori
- Helen Jerome Eddyas Cho-cho San's Mother
- Edmund Breeseas Cho-cho San's Grandfather
- Louise Carteras Suzuki
- Sándor Kállayas Goro
- Judith Vossellias Madame Goro
- Sheila Terryas Adelaide
- Dorothy Libaireas Peach Blossom
- Berton Churchillas Mr. Sharpless
- Philip Horomatoas Trouble
- Charitaas (uncredited)
Crew.
- DirectorMarion Gering
- Director of PhotographyDavid Abel
- EditorJane Loring
- Original Music ComposerW. Franke Harling
- ProducerB.P. Schulberg
- ScreenplayJosephine Lovett
- ScreenplayJoseph Moncure March
- StoryJohn Luther Long
Players in common.
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.