The Awful Truth (1937) ****

The Awful Truth (1937) is a delightful and hilarious "comedy of remarriage" in the tradition of The Philadelphia Story, His Girl Friday, and My Favorite Wife (all 1940 and also all starring Cary Grant). The Awful Truth marked the first standout performance by Grant where, thanks in large part to director Leo McCarey, he was given a role where he could shine and truly become the Cary Grant we know and love. Irene Dunne is his perfect foil—funny, sexy and smart. The truth about this not at all awful film is that it's a screwball classic, full of consummate comic timing, inspired improvisation, and standout slapstick.