The Big Knife

A Journey to the Dark Heart of Hollywood

A dark, morally corrosive portrait of Hollywood's exploitation and coercion, where a star's attempt at autonomy is crushed by institutional power and blackmail.

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.