Cary Grant
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Film Study · 1934 · Romantic Comedy • Screwball Comedy • Pre-Code Comedy

Thirty Day Princess

One of Cary Grant's earliest romantic comedies and a major step toward becoming Hollywood's definitive leading man.

Archival photograph associated with Thirty Day Princess

Editorial ratings

Cary Grant
Story
Direction
Cinematography
Entertainment
Historical importance

Introduction

A sophisticated Paramount comedy released during the closing months of the Pre-Code era.

The Story

Nancy Lane impersonates a princess while reporter Porter Madison III uncovers the truth.

Production & Behind the Scenes

Directed by Marion Gering and George Somnes with elegant Paramount production values.

Cary Grant's Performance

Grant displays effortless charm, comic timing, and romantic confidence.

Direction & Themes

Identity, romance, public image, deception, and self-discovery.

Historical Context

One of Paramount's final major Pre-Code romantic comedies.

Legacy & Influence

A landmark in Grant's evolution into Hollywood's premier romantic leading man.

Production & release

  1. Late 1933

    Production Begins

    Production begins.

  2. Early 1934

    Production Completes

    George Somnes completes production.

  3. March 23, 1934

    Theatrical Release

    Release.

  4. Summer 1934

    Production Code Enforcement

    Production Code enforcement begins.

On Screen

Cast.

  • Sylvia Sidney as Nancy Lane / Princess Catterina

    Sylvia Sidney as Nancy Lane / Princess Catterina

  • Cary Grant as Porter Madison III

    Cary Grant as Porter Madison III

  • Edward Arnold as Richard M. Gresham

    Edward Arnold as Richard M. Gresham

  • Henry Stephenson as King Anatol XII

    Henry Stephenson as King Anatol XII

  • Vince Barnett as Count Nicholeus

    Vince Barnett as Count Nicholeus

  • Edgar Norton as Baron Passeria

    Edgar Norton as Baron Passeria

  • Ray Walker as Dan Kirk

    Ray Walker as Dan Kirk