Ruthless newspaper columnist J. J. Hunsecker (Burt Lancaster) persuades unscrupulous press agent Sidney Falco (Tony Curtis) to break up his sister’s relationship with a jazz musician. Falco is eager to get back in Hunsecker’s good books and accepts the deal. He navigates New York City’s sleeazy underbelly and its immoral characters in one of the most acidic showbiz films from Hollywood’s Golden Age.

Written by Ernest Lehman and Clifford Odets, based on Lehman’s novelette Tell Me About It Tomorrow!, Sweet Smell of Success, directed by Alexander MacKendrick, is arguably one of the greatest screenplays ever written. Despite this, Lehman failed to get an Oscar nomination, which is seen today as quite the controversy. However, after six nominations and no wins, Lehman became the first screenwriter to win the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 73rd Oscars ceremony in 2001. Sweet Smell of Success will be screened in his honour.

Screenplay By is hosted by screenwriter, playwright and film blogger Carol Saint Martin and it focuses on the screenwriters and storytellers behind some of the greatest films ever made and their stories.

Doors open at 18.30, and the film starts at 19.30.

Refreshments will be available in our licensed cafe/bar.

TICKETS & PRICING

Tickets £9, £8 for concessions.

Advance tickets may be purchased from Ticketlab, or direct from the Museum by calling 020 7840 2200 in office hours.