Suzy
A lavish MGM romantic drama that reveals Cary Grant's growing dramatic power alongside Jean Harlow at the height of her stardom.
Editorial ratings
- Cary Grant
- Story
- Direction
- Cinematography
- Entertainment
- Historical importance
Introduction
Released by MGM in 1936, Suzy combines romance, aviation, adventure, and wartime drama while capturing Cary Grant during a crucial stage of artistic development.
The Story
Suzy Trent becomes involved with inventor Terry and aviator André Charville as love, loyalty, and war transform the lives of everyone around her.
Production & Behind the Scenes
MGM created a prestige production featuring Jean Harlow, Cary Grant, elaborate design, aviation themes, and the studio's trademark polish.
Cary Grant's Performance
Grant portrays Terry with intelligence, restraint, vulnerability, and emotional strength, revealing the dramatic foundation beneath his later sophisticated persona.
Direction & Themes
George Fitzmaurice explores transformation, loyalty, sacrifice, aviation, and the conflict between personal desires and larger responsibilities.
Historical Context
The film reflects 1930s fascination with aviation, international conflict, and changing expectations for Hollywood leading men.
Legacy & Influence
An overlooked but important transitional film documenting Cary Grant's evolution before his breakthrough classics.
Gallery
Production & release
Early 1936
MGM Develops the Adaptation
<p>MGM adapts Herbert Gorman's novel with Dorothy Parker among the screenwriters.</p>
Early 1936
Production Begins
<p>Filming begins under George Fitzmaurice with Harlow and Grant.</p>
March 20, 1936
Theatrical Release
<p>Suzy opens in theaters.</p>
1937
Grant Completes His Transition
<p>Cary Grant appears in Topper and The Awful Truth, completing his transition to major stardom.</p>
Cast.
Jean Harlow as Suzy
Franchot Tone as Terry
Cary Grant as Andre
Lewis Stone as Baron
Benita Hume as Madame Eyrelle
Reginald Mason as Captain Barsanges
Inez Courtney as Maisie
Other studies.
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