The Great McGinty was the first film written and directed by Preston Sturges. It was released by Paramount in 1940, and won the Academy Award for best original screenplay. A cynical political satire and inverted Horatio Alger story, the story revolves around Dan McGinty, who in flashback recalls how he rose from penniless bum through the political ranks until he became governor of state. This he accomplishes through ruthlessness and corruption, aided and abetted by his mentor, The Boss, leader of all the parties. Once he listens to his wife, however, and decides to become honest, he seals his own downfall.