Playwright James Lee adapted his off-Broadway play for the screen in this high-strung adaptation, directed by Joseph Anthony. In this simplistic, backroom show-business-success saga, Anthony Franciosa plays Sam, a struggling young actor who will forsake his family and take any type of menial job in order to become a Broadway star. Dean Martin is on hand as Maury, an aspiring director also trying to claw his way up the ladder of success. When Maury gets his big break, Sam wants a part in his show, but when Maury, who is unwilling to cast Sam in the production, turns down Sam's request, Sam seduces and marries Maury's girlfriend (Shirley MacLaine). In spite of everything, Maury wants his girl back, and Sam agrees to a divorce on the stipulation that Maury cast him as the star in his next show. Once again, Maury reneges and, before Sam can exact his revenge, Uncle Sam comes to the rescue and he is drafted into the army.
Directed by Joseph Anthony
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Cast
Dean Martin
Maury Novak
Anthony Franciosa
Sam Lawson
Shirley MacLaine
Sharon Kensington
Carolyn Jones
Shirley Drake
Joan Blackman
Barbara Lawson Helmsley
Robert Middleton
Robert Kensington
Frank McHugh
Charlie Gallagher
Donna Douglas
Marjorie Burke
Jerry Paris
Allan Burke
Chuck Wassil
Eric Peters
Mary Treen
Marie
Yuki Shimoda
Yosho
Alan Hewitt
Matt Helmsley
Marjorie Bennett
Fan Magazine Columnist (uncredited)
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