The Big Knife
“A Journey to the Dark Heart of Hollywood”
Synopsis
Movie star Charlie Castle draws the ire of Hollywood producer Stanley Hoff when he refuses to sign a new seven-year contract. Castle is sick of the low quality of the studio's films and wants to start a new life. While his estranged wife supports him in the decision, Castle's talent agent urges him to reconsider. When Castle continues to be uncooperative, Hoff resorts to blackmail in order to get his way.
Trailers, Teasers & Extra Featurettes
Official promotional previews, behind-the-scenes footage, and exclusive clips.
The Big Knife (1955) ORIGINAL TRAILER [HD 1080p]
Type: Trailer • Published 2018-02-06
Top Cast
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Jack Palance
Charles Castle
Ida Lupino
Marion Castle
Wendell Corey
Smiley Coy
Jean Hagen
Connie Bliss
Rod Steiger
Stanley Shriner Hoff
Shelley Winters
Dixie Evans
Ilka Chase
Patty Benedict
Everett Sloane
Nat Danziger
Wesley Addy
Horatio "Hank" Teagle
Paul Langton
Buddy Bliss
Nick Dennis
Mickey Feeney
Bill Walker
Russell
Michael Winkelman
Billy Castle
Richard Boone
Narrator (Voice)
Nick Cravat
Nick
Robert Emhardt
Bit Part
Mel Welles
Mustached Party Guest
Michael Fox
Prize Fight Announcer
Release History & Theatrical Window
Venice Film Festival
Festival / Special Debut
October 25, 1955
Wide Cinema Exhibition
January 17, 2024
Physical Home Media
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Robert Aldrich
- Screenplay & Story
- James Poe, Clifford Odets
- Original Score
- Frank De Vol
- Original Title
- The Big Knife
- Country of Origin
- United States of America
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 1h 51m
- Production Studios
- The Associates & Aldrich Company, United Artists
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Robert Aldrich
James Poe, Clifford Odets
Frank De Vol
Ernest Laszlo
Michael Luciano
Robert Aldrich
Department Leadership Roster
Robert Aldrich
Director
Robert Aldrich
Producer
Frank De Vol
Original Music Composer
Ernest Laszlo
Director of Photography
Michael Luciano
Editor
James Poe
Writer
Age Classification & Content Advisories
Official viewer rating standards and content warnings across international classification boards.
NR: Not Rated — Evaluated outside standard classification boards.
International Certification Matrix
Tous publics — Universal audience.
Not Rated — Evaluated outside standard classification boards.
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Big Knife.
Featured In Curated Collections
Editorial lists, community rankings, and cinematic collections featuring The Big Knife.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Big Knife
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is The Big Knife about?
Movie star Charlie Castle draws the ire of Hollywood producer Stanley Hoff when he refuses to sign a new seven-year contract. Castle is sick of the low quality of the studio's films and wants to start a new life. While his estranged wife supports him in the decision, Castle's talent agent urges him to reconsider. When Castle continues to be uncooperative, Hoff resorts to blackmail in order to get his way.
Who directed The Big Knife?
The Big Knife was directed by Robert Aldrich.
Who stars in The Big Knife?
The principal cast of The Big Knife includes Jack Palance, Ida Lupino, Wendell Corey, Jean Hagen, Rod Steiger.
When was The Big Knife released and how long is it?
The Big Knife was released in 1955 with a total runtime of 1h 51m.
Who composed the musical score for The Big Knife?
The original motion picture soundtrack for The Big Knife was composed by Frank De Vol.
What is the age rating and content advisory for The Big Knife?
The Big Knife holds official age classifications: FR: U (Tous publics — Universal audience.); US: NR (Not Rated — Evaluated outside standard classification boards.).