Alexander Mackendrick (1912–1993)

Great New York setting, the star power of Curtis and Lancaster, and some great cutting dialogue still don't add up to a great film. Psychologically, it remains more than a bit artificial, but watching the scheming press agent Curtis try to find success by suckling up to famous columnist, and all around bad person, Lancaster, by breaking up his sister's romance with a jazz guitarist is still a good deal of fun. (Lancaster is no Scarface; however, although it would have been good to see him show more with a chainsaw.) Martin Milner (Adam 12) as the love interest is the world's least convincing jazz guitarist, but he fares better in the dramatic scenes such as his confrontation with Lancaster or scenes with Lancaster's daughter played by Susan Harrison. Lots of other familiar faces here as well, and NYC, Times Square, and surroundings never looked better on b&w film than they do here. show less

Very good cast, great cinematography, and wonderful London locations don't make up for essential lack of belly laughs. This film is more interesting than good, great to see Sellers and Lom together way before the Pink Panther!

A little old lady is unknowingly involved in a heist.

2.5/4 (Okay)

It's enjoyable, but something about it didn't quite connect for me. I felt like I didn't get a good read on most of the characters early enough in the movie, and their "development" later was just sudden changes out of nowhere.

(Jun. 2021)

Acting: 5.0; Theme: 4.5; Content: 4.5; Language: 5.0; Overall: 4.5

A sleazy, ruthless, and controlling journalist, intends to destroy his sister's relationship, when she falls in love. With the help of his his corrupt press agent, they begin the process of destroying her lovers' career and life. Highly recommend.

***January 25, 2026***