Former police detective and alcoholic Max Thursday (Zachary Scott) learns from his ex-wife, Georgia (Faye Emerson), that their son, Jeff, has disappeared with her brother, Fred. Max's investigation leads him to Fred's unsavory associate, Dr. Elder -- but when the doctor is found murdered, Max is arrested. After Georgia provides Max's alibi, Max connects Elder with diamond smuggler Otto Varkas (J. Edward Bromberg), whose moll inadvertently provides a surprising lead to both Fred and Jeff.

Preceded by the Looney Tunes animated short Bugs & Thugs.

In partnership with The Mysterious Bookshop, NOIR CITY: NEW YORK will be hosting a book signing in the Paris Theater lobby on Thursday, July 16 at the 7 PM showtime of Sweet Smell of Success. Books by Eddie Muller will be available for purchase from 6:30-7 PM. The queue for the signing will start in the Paris Theater lobby at 8:45 PM, and book sales will recommence at that time, pending available inventory. The book signing is scheduled to start when the screening of Sweet Smell of Success ends.