MovieChat Forums > Sweet Smell of Success (1957) Discussion > Would it work today?

Would it work today?

posted 13 years ago by corleonedude
7 replies | jump to latest

Just saw it again on DVD. Actually a much better viewing experience the second time. I think one of things that I didn't quite catch on the first time was the power of columnists back in the 1950's. With the invention of twitter and facebook, people today start their own blogs everywhere. Some people might argue that personalities like Oprah, Colbert, Stewart or O'Reilly(yes, he's got his audiences too) are powerful influences, but I tend to think that with so many news sources and forums it's actually quite impossible to be affected by one particular individual or journalist. The target audiences and readers for materials of all kind are so marginalized.
Not that I ever want to see a remake but is it possible to recreate the scenario in 2012?

It's the one that says BAD *beep*

[–] mk_82 12 years ago

It think it would work in a modern context. People strike me as still just as gullible gossip-hounds, and slimeballs still run the show. But yeah, I wouldn't want a remake, either.

[–] bradford-1 11 years ago

For it to work in a modern setting, J.J. might have to be some kinda super-blogger, probably more political than entertainment-oriented. What is the modern equivalent to a press agent like Sidney? And what could possibly damage the career of a musician like Steve? It's an "everything goes" type of world. Public figures admit to homo- or bisexuality; drug/alcohol addiction; cheating on spouses; financial/tax shenanigans; and domestic violence. Accusing Steve of pedophilia or statutory rape could "dent his skull" in 2014, but maybe only if he were caught on video.
"May I bone your kipper, Mademoiselle?"

[–] Strazdamonas 9 years ago

I would like you to look into Gawkers Hulk Hogan controversy.

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Applied Science? All science is applied. Eventually.

[–] marktayloruk (2502) a year ago

Might accuse him of racism/sexism/homophobia/some other Left obsession.

[–] Ithilfaen 11 years ago

Good points but I think when it comes to gossip, it hasn't changed much. Look at how many people think TMZ is the Word of God and at the success of people like Perez Hilton.

For every lie I unlearn I learn something new - Ani Difranco

[–] MissMargoChanning (6630) 8 years ago

"Good points but I think when it comes to gossip, it hasn't changed much. Look at how many people think TMZ is the Word of God and at the success of people like Perez Hilton."

Or the Kardashians! lol!

[–] Strazdamonas 9 years ago

Would it? It DOES. Just look at all of the journalist collusion and agenda pushing unearthed within last year. This type of stuff is the standard now.

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Applied Science? All science is applied. Eventually.