Nothing Sacred

Nothing Sacred is a classic screwball comedy directed by William A. Wellman and featuring the stellar performance of Carole Lombard alongside Fredric March. The film follows Hazel Flagg (Lombard), a woman mistakenly diagnosed with a terminal illness, who becomes the subject of a media frenzy when a reporter, Wally Cook (March), arrives in her small town to cover her story. As Hazel enjoys her newfound celebrity status, the plot thickens with the contrast between her actual health and the ensuing chaos surrounding her publicity. With sharp wit and quick dialogue, the film explores themes of deceit, love, and the absurdity of fame. Lombard’s comedic timing and charm shine throughout, making her character both relatable and endearing, while also providing a satirical glimpse into the world of journalism and public perception. Released in 1937, this film captures the essence of its era with an engaging narrative that is as relevant today as it was then.

Nothing Sacred has garnered positive acclaim from critics, notably for its clever script and engaging performances. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an impressive 92% rating, indicating widespread approval from audiences and critics alike. The website praises Lombard for her vibrant portrayal of Hazel, describing her performance as 'brilliantly funny' and 'effortlessly charming.' Critics on IMDb have rated the film a solid 6.8/10, appreciating its blend of humor and social commentary. Metacritic presents a favorable score of 78/100, reflecting generally favorable reviews, with one critic noting, 'It offers an incisive look at the how media can manipulate reality for sensationalism.' However, some modern viewers may find the pacing to feel a bit slow by today’s standards. Nevertheless, the humor remains sharp and the chemistry between Lombard and March compelling, making it an enduring classic of its genre. Overall, Nothing Sacred cleverly balances satire and slapstick, earning its place in the pantheon of Hollywood comedies.