Ace in the Hole

Ace in the Hole


This movie was probably my least favorite so far! The cinematography was amazing, but the storyline was not for me! Douglas' character was dispicable- killing an innocent man and taking advantage of threatening circumstances in order to get a big break in his journalism career. The way an innocent man's misfortunes became a spectacle, ultimately a 'circus', made my stomache turn. Even though I hated the adulterous wife character, I still felt sympathy for her when Douglas slapped her face and almost choked her! Those moments were very jarring and unexpected. This movie exemplified 'below the belt journalism' and characters that completely lack a moral compass. I feel more educated and well-rounded having watched this famous Billy Wilder film, but I hope to never sit through it again.

I was curious about the meaning behind the movie title and this is what I found! I'm guessing that Douglas thought the news of the man in the cave would be his 'ace in the hole' or assurance for journalistic success.

Sweet Smell of Success' Tony Curtis in movie trailer for Some Like it Hot