The Secret of My Success

The Secret of My Success (1987)

  • 58% of critics liked it
    (19 reviews)

  • 56% of users liked it
    (32,704 ratings)

A talented young man can't get an executive position without rising through the ranks, so he comes up with a shortcut, which also benefits his love life.

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PG-13, 1 hr. 50 min.
Directed By
Herbert Ross
Genres
Comedy
In Theaters
Apr 7, 1987 Wide
On DVD
Oct 27, 1998
MCA Universal Home Video

Critic Reviews

  • Vincent Canby, New York Times

    The movie builds up a lot of good will early on, which is needed when the time comes to resolve its farcical complications.

  • Richard Harrington, Washington Post

    Obviously, no new ground is being broken here, but director Ross keeps things humming in an endearingly old-fashioned way.

  • Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times

    Does the movie really believe anyone is as stupid as these characters? Does it care?

  • Rita Kempley, Washington Post

    [A] belabored charade of mistaken identities...

  • Brian Webster, Apollo Guide

    The Secret of My Success is available as part of a four movie 'Michael J. Fox Comedy Favourites Collection.'

Read all 10 critic reviews

Critic ratings and reviews powered by RottenTomatoes.com

Fresh (60% or more critics rated the movie positively)

Rotten (59% or fewer critics rated the movie positively)

Featured Audience Ratings

  • Conner R


    A classic 80s movie with Michael J. Fox at his finest. The idea of this movie is as good in execution as it seems on paper, actually probably a lot better than it looks on paper. Whether it's the odd, slightly incestuous relationships or the orchestra of sex, there's never… More

  • AJ V


    A yuppie trying to rise up to the top has his life complicated by love. This is a great 80s flick, very funny and very timely. Fox is great as usual, and so is Slater. I really like this movie, and I recommend seeing it.

  • Cassie H


    Such a cute movie!!!! Michael J. Fox is just sooooo adorable I think once I started watching Family Ties my obsession began lol! :)

  • Anthony L


    One of my favourite 80?s films. It makes me want to go ?Ooooooooh yeeeeeeeeeah? in a really deep voice just thinking about it!

  • James A


    All I remember is that he bones his aunt and then realisticaly climbs the corporate latter. (Update) It turns out its not his aunt at all and it was just a horrible 80's movie. Damn you nostalgia!!! The flexing scene is the only funny thing still.

Read all 16 featured audience ratings

Cast

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