Date and Time for this Past Event
- Saturday, Oct 17, 2026 5:45pm
Details
Intro by film historian Foster Hirsch on Oct. 17
Otto Preminger’s second challenge to the Production Code was shot in black and white to underscore the seriousness of the subject. Drug addict Frankie Machine (Frank Sinatra) tries to get clean — hindered by his neurotic wife, Sophia (Eleanor Parker). He is accused of killing a drug dealer and turns to his former girlfriend, Molly (Kim Novak), to clear him and help him finally kick his habit. Preminger’s controversial adaptation softens the bleaker aspects of Nelson Algren’s award-winning novel. Saul Bass’ groundbreaking title design became a Preminger trademark.
