“Smash” is a musical drama that celebrates the beauty and heartbreak of the Broadway theater as it follows a cross-section of dreamers and schemers who all have one common desire — to be a “Smash.”
A Broadway musical, based on the life of Marilyn Monroe, is being written by the successful songwriting duo of Tom and Julia. Julia recently began the process of adopting a child with her husband Frank of many years, but her focus is torn when she has the opportunity to write another Broadway hit. A rivalry soon forms for the lead role between a youthful, inexperienced Midwestern beauty Karen – who is trying to find fame in the big city against all odds – and stage veteran Ivy Lynn, who’s determined to leave the chorus line and finally get her big break. A tenacious producer Eileen discovers the “Marilyn” project and jumps on board with a brilliant director, Derek – whose talent is matched by his cunning and egocentric amorality.