Thirty Day Princess

"Thirty Day Princess", a romantic comedy film directed by Marion Gering, released in 1934, is a delightful journey of mistaken identities, royal intrigue, and charming romance. The film brings together the likes of Sylvia Sidney, Cary Grant, and Edward Arnold, each offering standout performances that charm audiences, with the chemistry between the co-stars playing out beautifully on the screen.

Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, the narrative of "Thirty Day Princess" follows the story of Princess "Zizzi" Catterina of the (fictitious) European country of Taronia. Sylvia Sidney delightfully plays the dual role of the sophisticated Princess Zizzi and a struggling New York actress named Nancy Lane, with an uncanny resemblance to the Princess.

As a classic trope of numerous romantic comedies, the lookalike (Nancy Lane) is quickly exploited for all the comic potential it offers. When Princess Zizzi's American visit is interrupted due to illness, due to an unforeseen sequence of events, the spirited struggling actress Nancy Lane is hired to "temporarily" assume her title for thirty days. Nancy, initially hesitant, takes on this daring identity swap under the supervision of Count Nicholaus (played exquisitely by Edward Arnold), ultimately treading on a path laden with drama, comedy, and several unexpected turns.

Meanwhile, Cary Grant, an established known face of Golden Age Hollywood, shines in his portrayal of Porter Madison III. Madison, a skeptical but suave journalist and publisher, is a vocal critic of the financial arrangement proposed between America and Taronia. His interactions with Nancy (impersonating Princess Zizzi) form the backbone of the story's romantic subplot.

Thirty Day Princess uses its sharp humor and engaging storyline to provide commentary on societal norms of the time. It scrutinizes the intersections of media, power, and public perception in clever and often comedic ways. Simultaneously, it utilizes the classic setting of the Great Depression to weave relatable individual financial struggles into its narrative, adding a layer of depth to its lighthearted arcs.

Sylvia Sidney's performance in her dual roles is remarkable. Her portrayal of both the educated, elegant, and reserved Princess Zizzi and the aspiring, outgoing actress, Nancy Lane, are both convincing and nuanced. Her ability to smoothly switch between the respective accents, mannerisms, and attitudes of her characters shows the full range of her acting prowess.

Cary Grant, as always, does not disappoint either. His portrayal of the cynical millionaire journalist, Porter Madison III, offers the perfect contrast to Sidney's characters. His character's skepticism and his eventual transformation as he warms up to the fake Princess makes for a compelling character arc.

Edward Arnold also deserves mention for his portrayal of the manipulative Count Nicholaus, who formulates the big switch. His character is as cunning as he is comical, adding an extra dimension to the film's tale of mistaken identity.

The overall direction, writing, and execution of "Thirty Day Princess" make it a standout among 1930s romantic comedies. The entire cast's performances, in combination with the deft direction, heightened by the beautiful set designs and costumes, make this film a visual treat.

The screenplay is brisk, teeming with clever dialogues and humorous quips that keep the audience engaged throughout the movie. One of the screenplay's strengths lies in the seamless blend of comedy and drama, never favoring one style over the other. This perfect balance ensures the movie retains a certain depth and heart, even as it indulges in its playful pretense of mistaken identities.

Destined to take viewers on a roller coaster of laughs, drama, and romance, "Thirty Day Princess" is a classic that continues to enchant audiences nearly a century after its release. It is a must-watch for fans of vintage cinema and those who appreciate the timeless charm of romantic comedy films.