Sweet Smell of Success - A Story about Ambition, Jealousy and the Price of Fame

Sweet Smell of Success - A Story about Ambition, Jealousy and the Price of Fame

“Sweet Smell of Success”, a cinematic gem released in 1957 (not 1955!), dives deep into the murky waters of ambition and envy that swirl around the entertainment industry. This classic noir film paints a vivid portrait of New York City’s high-stakes world, where success is often measured by who you know rather than what you know.

The narrative revolves around Sidney Falco (played with chilling intensity by Tony Curtis), a relentless press agent desperate to claw his way up the ladder of success. His obsession with fame and recognition leads him to forge a precarious alliance with J.J. Hunsecker (Burt Lancaster), a powerful and ruthless newspaper columnist who wields immense influence over the city’s elite.

Hunsecker, a shadowy figure consumed by his own demons, agrees to help Falco climb the ranks in exchange for a nefarious favor: sabotaging the budding career of a talented jazz musician named Steve Dallas (played by the iconic Barney Ford) who happens to be Hunsecker’s sister’s love interest.

Falco, blinded by ambition and eager to please his new mentor, initially embraces this unethical task with gusto. He employs his cunning and manipulative tactics to smear Dallas’ reputation, spreading vicious rumors and undermining his career prospects.

However, as Falco delves deeper into this web of deceit, he begins to question the morality of his actions. The film masterfully captures his internal struggle: the allure of success clashing with his growing conscience.

“Sweet Smell of Success” is a tour-de-force of performances. Lancaster delivers a powerhouse performance as the menacing Hunsecker, embodying his character’s ruthlessness and simmering rage with chilling precision. Curtis portrays Falco’s desperate ambition and internal turmoil with remarkable nuance.

Themes Explored in “Sweet Smell of Success”:

  • Ambition and Power: The film explores the seductive nature of ambition and the corrupting influence of power. Hunsecker’s insatiable hunger for control drives him to manipulate and exploit those around him.

  • Ethics and Morality: “Sweet Smell of Success” raises important questions about the ethical boundaries in journalism and the entertainment industry. Falco’s moral dilemma underscores the dangers of compromising one’s integrity for personal gain.

  • Love and Jealousy: The complex relationship between Hunsecker and his sister, Susan (played by Susan Harrison), adds another layer of intrigue to the story. Hunsecker’s possessive jealousy towards Dallas fuels his desire to destroy him.

  • The Dark Side of Fame: The film offers a cynical portrayal of the entertainment industry, highlighting its superficiality and the price one pays for fame.

Production Features and Legacy:

  • Directed by Alexander Mackendrick, “Sweet Smell of Success” is a masterclass in noir filmmaking. The film’s stark black-and-white cinematography and claustrophobic setting effectively convey the sense of moral ambiguity and impending doom.

  • The screenplay by Clifford Odets and Ernest Lehman is sharp and witty, filled with memorable dialogue that captures the cynical tone of the era.

  • Iconic Soundtrack: Elmer Bernstein’s haunting score perfectly complements the film’s dark and suspenseful atmosphere.

A Timeless Classic:

“Sweet Smell of Success” remains a timeless classic for its powerful performances, thought-provoking themes, and stylish direction. The film’s exploration of ambition, betrayal, and the price of fame continues to resonate with audiences today, making it a must-see for fans of classic cinema and noir enthusiasts alike.