Cary Grant is one of my favorite actors of all time. He is the king of romantic comedies but his range and skill as an actor does not stop there because Cary has shown his versatility by playing darker characters that go against type. Leopold Dilg (Grant), one of the protagonists in the film, is a blend of both character types coming off dark and mysterious but with enough charm and charisma that is usually seen from Cary Grant.
Leopold, a mill worker, escapes police custody after being accused of burning down the mill factory which killed a foreman on duty. Leopold is innocent, and takes refuge in former schoolmate and long time crush, Nora Shelly’s (Arthur) house. It just so happens that at the same time Professor Michael Lightcap (Colman) is renting out a room in Nora’s house right when Leopold moves in. Now Nora is forced to hide Leopold, believing he is innocent, and entertain Lightcap without raising suspicion.
Cary Grant’s comedic timing is impeccable and the scenes with Jean Arthur and Ronald Colman are terrific. All three characters develop a friendship despite Cary and Jean hiding the truth from the oblivious professor. Leopold and Lightcap have two different views when it comes to the law, the former arguing from a more practical standpoint while the latter contends from a more academic view considering his background. Yet their opposing ideas bond the two men leading to a mutual respect between them. But their conflict comes when both men vie for the affection of Nora.
Leopold always had a crush on Nora since they were younger; however, Lightcap is slowly winning her affection as his political success and kind hearted demeanor are commendable attributes for Nora. Another source of contention comes when Lightcap discovers the truth about Leopold as an escaped prisoner wanted for the burning the mill down. At this point both Lightcap and Leopold have been arguing their opinions about the law, but now, they are faced with a situation in which their opposing views are being tested.
When the film was shot, director Stevens made two endings. Both Grant and Colman were leading men, winning the leading lady by the end of their respective films. So, Stevens was in a tight spot having to choose as to who should get the girl. In one version, Colman wins after being inducted into the Supreme Court as a judge, Nora picks him over Leopold.
Another ending showed Leopold winning the Nora after arriving at the inauguration for Lightcap, Leopold slips away seemingly unnoticed, until tracked down by Nora in which she chooses him. When both versions were screened in front of a testing audience, most picked the Grant ending. No surprise considering the wide appeal of Cary Grant.
Talk of the Town was nominated for seven Academy Awards one including best picture and original screenplay. Prior to seeing the film, I never knew Grant and Arthur starred in a movie together, and to see the two together was truly a joy to watch. Add in a comedic story with intrigue, and you’ve got a recipe for an instant classic.
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THE TALK OF THE TOWN
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THE TALK OF THE TOWN, 1942
