Bringing Up Baby (1938) Review in 2025
A prehistoric dinosaur named a leopard lizard is on the loose, causing chaos and destruction in a small town. A paleontologist, Dr. David Huxley, must navigate his complicated love life and professional ambitions while trying to capture the dinosaur.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for family viewing, but it may not be suitable for very young children due to some mild slapstick humor and innuendo.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for its witty dialogue, charming performances, and engaging storyline. It's a classic romantic comedy that is suitable for family viewing.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie follows Dr. David Huxley, a paleontologist who is engaged to his colleague, Alice Swallow. However, he becomes smitten with a free-spirited socialite, Susan Vance, who is on the run from her wealthy family. As David tries to win Susan's heart, he becomes distracted from his work, leading to a series of hilarious misadventures, including a wild goose chase through the countryside to capture a leopard lizard that has escaped from a museum.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear narrative that is easy to follow. However, some viewers may find the plot a bit predictable and formulaic.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with great performances from the entire cast. Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant have great chemistry, and the supporting actors add to the humor and charm of the film.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, with great chemistry between the leads. Katharine Hepburn shines as the free-spirited Susan Vance, while Cary Grant is charming as the bumbling Dr. David Huxley.
direction9.00/10
The direction is excellent, with a clear vision and a great sense of pacing. Howard Hawks brings out the best in his actors and creates a lively, engaging atmosphere.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is good, but not exceptional. The black-and-white photography is well-done, but some viewers may find the composition a bit static at times.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie has a great cast, a witty script, and a charming atmosphere. The chemistry between Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant is undeniable, and the supporting actors add to the humor and charm of the film.
Cons
Some viewers may find the plot a bit predictable and formulaic, and the cinematography is not exceptional. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent film.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a paleontologist, I'm a man of science!"
"Nature is what we believe - it's not laws."
"You're not a paleontologist, you're a man of science! You're not a man of science, you're a paleontologist!"
