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
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
Other studies.
Cary Grant delivers one of the most compassionate performances of his career as Dr. Noah Praetorius, an unconventional physician whose humanity is tested by prejudice, rumor, and institutional politics.
Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn create one of cinema's most elegant romantic mysteries—a thrilling game of deception, danger, and unexpected love.