Ben Hecht was an American screenwriter, director, producer, playwright, journalist, and novelist. He is noted for his fast-paced, witty dialogue and his ability to craft compelling stories. He wrote more than 70 plays and produced over 40 films. He was also a member of the Algonquin Round Table, a group of New York City writers, actors, and critics. Hecht won an Academy Award for his work on the film 'UNDERWORLD' in 1929. He is considered one of the most influential writers of the 20th century.