NOTHING SACRED

Cinemavixion Review

William A. Wellman's "Nothing Sacred" from 1937 is a razor-sharp screwball comedy that satirizes the sensationalism of 1930s journalism and the public's insatiable appetite for manufactured drama. Anchored by a career-defining performance from Carole Lombard as Hazel Flagg, a small-town woman whose supposed fatal radium poisoning becomes a national media sensation, the film masterfully blends biting social commentary with laugh-out-loud absurdity. Fredric March complements Lombard's vivacity as Wally Cook, the ambitious reporter who engineers Hazel's rise to fame, only to find himself entangled in a love affair with his 'dying' subject. The plot, penned by Ben Hecht, is a whirlwind of deception and manipulation, exposing the ethical gray areas of the press while simultaneously celebrating the resilience and wit of its protagonists. Garnering critical acclaim, including a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, "Nothing Sacred" remains a testament to the enduring power of Hollywood's golden age comedies, offering a frothy yet thought-provoking cinematic experience that continues to entertain and provoke.