Monkey Business (1952), dir. Howard Hawks
Bristol Megascreen at Bristol Aquarium, Anchor Road,Bristol UK, BS1 5TT
Saturday 30 November, 16:00 (GMT)
Rating: U
Running Time: 1hr, 37min, plus intro
Join us for a delightful screening of Howard Hawks’s screwball comedy, Monkey Business, starring Cary Grant, Ginger Rogers, and Marilyn Monroe. This film is a joyous romp that combines elements of surrealism and slapstick, making it a must-see for fans of classic cinema.
Cary Grant shines as Dr. Barnaby Fulton, an absent-minded professor working on a rejuvenation elixir. When a lab chimpanzee accidentally mixes the formula into the water cooler, chaos ensues. Dr. Fulton, his wife (Ginger Rogers), and his secretary (Marilyn Monroe) all revert to their youthful, prank-pulling selves. The film is filled with hilarious moments and showcases Grant’s impeccable comedic timing and physical prowess.
Monkey Business is the last of five collaborations between Grant and director Howard Hawks, and it is the silliest of the lot. Echoes of Bringing Up Baby abound in the showdown between fusty expertise and unfettered animal instinct. While Rogers may not match Hepburn, Monroe positively sparkles in this early role, adding to the film’s charm.
Monkey Business is often underrated but deserves re-evaluation for its genius blend of innocence and worldly humour. The movie also features unforgettable scenes, including Grant’s vaudeville-inspired cartwheel, highlighting his versatility as a performer.
Don’t miss this chance to experience Monkey Business on the big screen. It’s a perfect blend of comedy, romance, and sheer fun that will leave you laughing and marvelling at the talents of its legendary cast
Content Warning: Please be aware that this film contains outdated depictions of Native Americans and blackface, as well as the treatment of animals that may be unsettling to modern audiences.
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| OPENING NIGHT RECEPTION WITH LIVE MUSIC FROM THE RICHIE PARADISE TRIO |
PANEL: CARY IN MOTION CELEBRATING CARY GRANT’S PHYSICAL PROWESS |
PANEL: ANIMAL MAGIC! PANEL DISCUSSION WITH MATTHEW SWEET, MICHAEL LAWRENCE AND THEO JONES |
Celebrating Bristol’s recent designation as a UNESCO City of Film, in recognition of the city’s vibrant screen heritage, of which Cary Grant is one of our brightest stars.