| Scandal for Sale | |
| Director: | Russell Mack |
| Music: | David Broekman |
| Cinematography: | Karl Freund |
| Editing: | Robert Carlisle |
| Studio: | Universal Pictures |
| Distributor: | Universal Pictures |
| Runtime: | 75 minutes |
| Country: | United States |
| Language: | English |
Scandal for Sale is a 1932 American pre-Code drama film directed by Russell Mack and starring Charles Bickford, Rose Hobart and Pat O'Brien.[1] The film's sets were designed by the art director Charles D. Hall. The plot is adapted from Emile Gauvreau's novel, "Hot News", which drew from Gauvreau's personal experiences as a newspaper editor. While the film's title suggests a deep dive into the world of journalism, it somewhat glosses over the novel's intricate commentary, especially when compared to contemporaneous films like "Five Star Final" (1931), which approached the subject matter with more intensity.[2]
A tenacious city editor, Jerry Strong, is eager to employ sensationalist tactics to boost newspaper sales. Lured by a $25,000 incentive from publisher, Strong starts to insert fabricated news into his publication. Amidst this, he learns of an intimate relationship between his top reporter, Waddell, and his own estranged wife, Claire. In a twist, Strong assigns Waddell to cover a risky trans-Atlantic flight, which culminates in Waddell's tragic demise. Holding her husband responsible, Claire contemplates leaving Strong. Yet, he pleads for a second chance, suggesting they return to their hometown for a simpler, more contented existence.