Cary Grant's First Appearance: The Pioneering Film 'This Is the Night'

In the annals of Hollywood history, the debut of an actor that would become one of the most iconic and beloved figures in the film industry was a pivotal moment. This was the case with Cary Grant, who made his first foray into the limelight with the 1932 American comedy film This Is the Night. Under the direction of Frank Tuttle, this Paramount Pictures production took place during a critical era in the development of the film industry.

The Making of 'This Is the Night'

Paragon Pictures, under the leadership of Tiffany Castle, commissioned the screenplay for This Is the Night. The film was directed by Frank Tuttle, a director known for his versatility and expertise in crafting comedies. The central cast featured Cary Grant in his film debut, opposite the talented actress Lili Damita. This pairing was an early yet significant milestone in Grant's career.

A Controversial Debut

Cary Grant harbored some reservations about his role in the film, voicing his discontent with the unfaithfulness aspect of the storyline. According to a statement in This is the Night, he believed that a character accepting such unfaithfulness without protest was implausible. In fact, so strong were Cary's convictions that he seriously considered departing from the industry altogether following the release of the film.

A Deterrent to Departure

It was the intervention of a legendary figure in the fashion industry that ultimately preserved Grant's early foray into the world of films. The renowned dress designer, Orry-Kelly, was a close friend of Grant. Realizing the potential loss to the industry, Orry-Kelly talked him out of his decision to quit the entertainment industry.

The Quality of 'This Is the Night'

The production values and the craftsmanship of This Is the Night have been praised by critics and historians. Bob Wagner, a respected film writer, noted in his analysis that the film was made to a high standard from a production perspective. The meticulous attention to detail, particularly in terms of setting and the portrayal of characters, was indicative of the era's Hollywood aspirations for quality.

Conclusion: The Birth of an Icon

To many, This Is the Night may seem like a minor footnote in Grant's illustrious career. However, it marks a significant turning point. It was here that the world first encountered the charisma, wit, and elegance that would define Cary Grant's career. The challenges and hesitations within the production serve as a testament to the pure potential and talent that was granted early recognition in Hollywood. Future retrospectives and analyses of Grant's work frequently return to this film, harkening to the roots of his career and the pivotal roles he went on to play.

Keywords: Cary Grant, film debut, early career