Sweet Smell of Success (re-release)
Metascore
100 out of 100

Universal acclaim - based on 5 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
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  1. Christian Science Monitor
    Reviewed by: David Sterritt
    100
    Everyone raves about this 1957 film -- and everyone's right.
  2. TV Guide
    Reviewed by: Staff (not credited)
    100
    Captures the sleazy allure of Manhattan like no other film.
  3. Portland Oregonian
    Reviewed by: Kim Morgan
    100
    Can a film so expertly capture the odious and bitter that it becomes deliciously, disgustingly beautiful? Yes, if that film is 1957's Sweet Smell of Success.
  4. The New York Times
    Reviewed by: Dana Stevens
    100
    Its pleasures are almost obscenely abundant.
  5. Variety
    Reviewed by: Staff (Not Credited)
    80
    It's a no-holds-barred account of the sadistic fourth estater played cunningly by Burt Lancaster.

User Reviews

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User Score
6.8 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 23 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 8
  3. Negative: 0 out of 8
  1. Serrao_Brochado
    5
    a very peculiar film in that, at a certain point, you don't know who is good and who is bad guy. Tony Curtis is brilliant in one of the most important roles of his career. Moreover, the story isn't captivating and superficially depicts a far darker reality than mere exchange of favors and young guitarists. A good theme barely tapped.… Full Review »
  2. nascent
    7
    Initially a slow and awkwardly developed plot, but after 25 minutes or so (around the time of Lancaster's introduction) the tightly written and bold intentions of the movie begin to shine through. With killer performances by the whole cast, and a strong premise for such an early film, the pacing quickens, and the atmosphere builds.… Full Review »
  3. Duiker
    10
    This movie left me speechless. Far ahead of its time, even today. There is no flaw, no pathetic moment, no screwed dialogue. It is perfect in a Kubrickian way but still is very different.… Full Review »
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