Monkey Business 1952
"It's some fun!"
Dive into the delightful chaos of *Monkey Business (1952)*, Howard Hawks' screwball comedy where a brilliant but distracted chemist's experiment takes an uproarious turn.
Director: Howard Hawks
Cast
Cary Grant
Barnaby Fulton
Ginger Rogers
Edwina Fulton
Charles Coburn
Oliver Oxley
Marilyn Monroe
Lois Laurel
Hugh Marlowe
Hank Entwhistle
Henri Letondal
Jerome Kitzel
Robert Cornthwaite
Dr. Zoldeck
Larry Keating
GJ Culverly
Douglas Spencer
Dr. Brunner
Esther Dale
Mrs. Rhinelander
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Monkey Business (1952) about?
*Monkey Business* follows Barnaby Fulton, a research chemist whose life takes a zany detour when a laboratory chimp's chemical mix ends up in the office water cooler. After sipping the tainted water, Fulton—and soon his wife and boss—begin acting like overgrown teenagers, leading to a whirlwind of comedic misunderstandings and chaotic behavior.
Who directed Monkey Business?
Howard Hawks, one of Hollywood's most versatile directors, helmed *Monkey Business*. Known for his work across genres, Hawks brought a sharp comedic edge to this 1952 classic.
Who stars in Monkey Business?
The film stars Cary Grant as the bewildered chemist, Ginger Rogers as his quick-witted wife, and a young Marilyn Monroe as the vivacious secretary who steals every scene she's in.
Is Monkey Business (1952) worth watching?
*Monkey Business* is a gem for fans of classic comedy, offering a mix of wit, slapstick, and timeless charm. While it doesn't boast a modern IMDb rating, its enduring appeal lies in Hawks' direction and the stellar performances—especially Monroe's breakout moment. If you love screwball comedies, this one's a must-see.
How long is Monkey Business?
The film runs for 97 minutes, making it a perfect bite-sized escape into classic comedy.
🎥 Trailer
About Monkey Business (1952) — A Classic Comedy Rooted in Chaos and Youthful Mischief
Dive into the delightful chaos of *Monkey Business (1952)*, Howard Hawks' screwball comedy where a brilliant but distracted chemist's experiment takes an uproarious turn. When a mischievous chimpanzee spills a youth-elixir concoction into the office water cooler, chaos erupts as Barnaby Fulton—played by the ever-charming Cary Grant—finds himself regressing to his reckless twenties. The film's infectious energy stems from the absurdity of adults behaving like overgrown kids, all while navigating a world of scientific ambition, marital bliss, and office politics. Ginger Rogers injects wit as Grant's sharp-witted wife, and a young Marilyn Monroe sizzles as the secretary whose presence turns even the most mundane scenes into pure gold. With its playful tone and clever satire, *Monkey Business (1952)* is a timeless romp through the follies of youth and maturity.
Set against the backdrop of 1950s corporate America, Hawks' direction blends rapid-fire dialogue and slapstick charm, making *Monkey Business* a standout in the comedy genre. The film's themes of reinvention and the unpredictability of science resonate just as sharply today as they did over 70 years ago. Whether you're a fan of classic Hollywood or just crave a laugh, this movie's blend of sophistication and silly antics is sure to leave you grinning from ear to ear.
