Susan Learns About the Love Impulse

In this classic screwball comedy scene from Bringing Up Baby, written by Dudley Nichols and Hagar Wilde, Susan strikes up an intrusive conversation with a dignified psychiatrist named Dr. Digby. While casually distracting him and tossing olives around his table, she absorbs his theories on nervous behavior and immediately applies them to David. The resulting group interaction blends high-society formality with pure comedic chaos and playful romantic misunderstandings.

Susan is an irrepressible whirlwind whose breezy confidence completely disarms anyone trying to maintain strict decorum. She pursues what she wants without shame, pivoting from silly physical games to pop psychology with complete sincerity. In contrast, Dr. Digby operates as the quintessential pompous authority figure whose self-importance makes him an easy mark for her eccentricities. David serves as the flustered foil, forced to defend his sanity while navigating Susan's relentless fixation on him.

Screwball dialogue demands extraordinary rhythm, sharp listening, and crisp vocal diction. This multi-character sequence allows performers to demonstrate fast-paced comedic interplay while managing distinct physical business. Casting directors get to see whether an actor can deliver sophisticated, rapid-fire banter without losing the grounded emotional logic behind the humor.

This excerpt is an ideal choice for comedic performers, ingenues, leading ladies, and character actors looking to stand out in an agent showcase or a lively self-tape. Because of its multi-role dynamic, it also serves as excellent scene study material for actors seeking general practice with heightened classic styles and collaborative timing.

Keep the tempo brisk without allowing the rapid dialogue to feel rushed or breathy. Susan must possess absolute conviction in her flawed logic rather than playing the scene merely for easy laughs. For Digby and David, lean into authentic confusion and wounded dignity rather than overt hostility, which heightens the natural absurdity of the situation. Maintain clear physical choices and active listening to keep the comedic momentum alive across every exchange.