Sweet Smell of Success

Sweet Smell of Success is a 1957 American drama set in the nighttime world of New York City newspapers and Broadway publicity. J.J. Hunsecker, a columnist whose writing can make or break careers, disapproves of his younger sister Susan's romance with Steve Dallas, an aspiring jazz guitarist. Unable to control her himself, Hunsecker pressures Sidney Falco, a struggling press agent who depends on the columnist's favor, to break up the couple. Falco's efforts to do so, and the compromises they demand of him, drive the film's central conflict.

The film was directed by Alexander Mackendrick, his fifth feature after Whisky Galore!, The Man in the White Suit, The 'Maggie' and The Ladykillers. Ernest Lehman and Clifford Odets wrote the screenplay, and James Hill produced. Burt Lancaster plays Hunsecker and Tony Curtis plays Falco, with Susan Harrison as Susan, Martin Milner as Steve Dallas, Jeff Donnell as Sally and Sam Levene as Frank D'Angelo. Seventy performers are credited.

Made for about 3 million dollars, the film took in roughly the same amount worldwide. On IMDb it holds 8 out of 10 from nearly 35,000 votes, while on TMDB it sits at 7.6 from around 600. A critics' rating of 8.8 from 61 reviews places it above both audience scores.