Smash Up is a 1947 drama film directed by Stuart Heisler, staring Susan Hayward, Lee Bowman and Marsha Hunt. The film chronicles the story of a successful nightclub singer named Angie Evans, played by Susan Hayward, and her descent into alcoholism and self-destruction. The movie opens with Angie performing at a nightclub where she meets Ken Conway, played by Lee Bowman. The two hit it off, beginning a whirlwind romance that leads to marriage. Kenâs career as an insurance salesman is lacking and they soon find themselves struggling financially.
Angieâs career begins to take off, as she sings for a popular radio show. Her newfound success fuels her ambition and causes tension in their relationship as Ken becomes increasingly distant. Angie finds solace in alcohol and begins to self-destruct, causing her to miss the radio show and damage her reputation.
The coupleâs problems become worse with the arrival of Connie, a young and attractive singer, played by Marsha Hunt, who becomes a close friend to Ken. Angie begins to suspect that Ken is unfaithful with Connie, leading to confrontations between the couple.
As Angieâs alcoholism worsens, Ken tries to help her but fails to make her quit drinking. Angie has a breakdown during a live performance, causing her to be fired from the radio show. She becomes isolated from friends and family, and her career spirals downwards.
After an argument with Ken, Angie leaves him and hits rock bottom. She is arrested for drunk driving and ends up in a sanitarium. Her stint in the institution leads her to finally confront her problems with alcohol and take steps towards recovery.
Ken visits Angie in the sanitarium, rekindling their relationship as she begins her journey to sobriety. The couple eventually reconciles as Angie finishes her rehabilitation and feels ready to go back to the stage.
Smash Up portrays the devastation and emotional toll that addiction can have on individuals and their relationships. Susan Hayward delivers an outstanding performance, portraying the range of emotions experienced by someone struggling with alcoholism, from the highs of success to the lows of self-destruction. Lee Bowman also delivers a strong performance, showcasing the frustrations and helplessness experienced by loved ones trying to help someone struggling with addiction.
The film also explores themes of jealousy and infidelity, as Angieâs suspicions about Ken and Connieâs relationship become a source of conflict for the couple. Marsha Hunt provides a nuanced performance as Connie, adding complexity to a character that could have been easily painted as a homewrecker.
Overall, Smash Up is a thought-provoking and emotional film that addresses complex issues with sensitivity and depth. It is a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood dramas and provides powerful insights into the struggles of addiction and recovery.
Smash Up is a 1947 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes.
