The raw emotions and crackling dialogue of Tennessee Williams' 1955 Pulitzer Prize play rumble like a thunderstorm in this film version, whose fiery performances and taboo themes made it one of 1957s top box-office hits. Paul Newman earned his first Oscar nomination as troubled ex-sports hero Brick. In a role that marked a transition to richer adult roles, Elizabeth Taylor snagged her second. Her Maggie the Cat is a vivid portrait of passionate loyalty. Nominated for six Academy Awards including Best Picture and also starring Burl Ives, repeating his Broadway triumph as mendacity-loathing Big Daddy, Judith Anderson and Jack Carson, CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF sizzles.