In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen delve into the 1957 film noir masterpiece, "The Sweet Smell of Success," a film that transformed from a box office flop into a revered classic. This episode explores the chaotic collaboration between novelist Ernest Lehman, playwright Clifford Odets, and director Alexander McKendrick, as they bring to life via screenplay the morally ambiguous world of a powerful Broadway columnist and his unscrupulous press agent. With standout performances from Burt Lancaster and Tony Curtis, the duo navigates the razor-sharp dialogue and intrigue and character dynamics that define this film. Join Laura and Stephen as they unpack the film's themes of ambition, manipulation, and the sordid underbelly of 1950s media journalism, all while highlighting the electric screenplay that has left an indelible mark on cinema. “The cat’s in the bag and the bag’s in the river.”

00:00 Introduction to "The Sweet Smell of Success"

01:30 The film's chaotic creation and initial reception

04:15 Exploring the dynamic between J.J. Hunsucker and Sidney Falco

07:00 The significance of the film's dialogue and writing style

10:00 The portrayal of ambition and moral corruption

13:30 The character of Susie and her relationship with J.J.

16:15 Cinematography and visual style of 1950s New York

19:00 The impact of Walter Winchell on the film's narrative

22:30 The collaborative chaos among the screenwriters

26:00 Conclusion and reflections on the film's legacy

For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod

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Ep 291: Reviewing "The Sweet Smell of Success" (1957) and the Dark Art of Dialogue

Midday Movies