Sunset Boulevard

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Shirley L Classic story of someone trying to break into the movie business and taken advantage of by an older star. I could have been a young woman being taken advantage of by an older male star for the same impact. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 08/24/21 Full Review William B Nice storyline. Interesing film. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 11/22/24 Full Review Byron H 4/4 A film that feels like it was made yesterday, despite it being from 1950. It's one of the greatest films in cinematic history. It posseses possibly the greatest opening scene ever, that's pays off with one of the greatest twists in movie history. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 11/20/24 Full Review Martin B I watched it again after seeing it several years ago. Swanson was great and I rarely use that word. Overall, it held my attention throughout- they really don't make em like this anymore. No unnecessary special effects, loud invasive sound track, etc. It's about interesting people - their personalities and interactions, and the bizarre culture of Hollywood. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 11/13/24 Full Review Eric D Billy Wilder's iconic film Sunset Boulevard has very interesting characters with depths of psychology and gives a very hard critique of Hollywood's darker side. The industry is shown to be brutal and exploitative rather than attractive, which is a concept that I enjoy and is still relevant in today's industry. The cast of characters, each likable in their own special and sometimes imperfect ways, is what really sticks out to me in the entire movie. Norma Desmond, an emotional heroine caught in her past, is likable despite her delusions. She attempts to control Joe via riches by providing him with material luxuries like jewelry, clothing, and a luxury lifestyle in an effort to keep him around. Joe, on the other hand, knows this, but he is also hooked by Norma's comfort, which causes him to stay until the end. The psychological depth of both characters elevates the film, making it more than just a critique of Hollywood. It shows us the fragile egos, the desperation, and the moral compromises people make to survive in the industry. Even though this film is a dark comedy at heart, it feels strikingly real and contemporary, especially in its exploration of power dynamics and relevance. While a few scenes may feel slow or boring, the film remains entertaining throughout, showcasing its influence on countless Hollywood-centered films that followed. Wilder’s exploration of the darker sides of fame and ambition continues to be both relevant and captivating. Overall, I believe it's worth watching this film because it lets you freely create your own opinions on the characters and the whole industry itself. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 11/13/24 Full Review Viviana A I really enjoyed Sunset Boulevard. It has such a dark and haunting look and at first, it gave a very unsettling yet captivating feeling throughout. I found the storyline really interesting and eerie and I liked how the director, Billy Wilder was able to maintain a balance of Hollywood with its darker side. He captures both the desire and the emptiness of fame. I think the camera work was fantastic because it definitely brings out the darker atmosphere, especially in the way Norma’s mansion is filmed. The wide shots in this film make it look big but at the same time it is decaying which I think could symbolize her fame fading, and the close-ups of Norma’s expressions show her obsession and desperation so well and clearly. Gloria Swanson as Norma Desmond was so amazing. She was dramatic, intense, and still sympathetic all at the same time. As a viewer, it felt like I could feel her pain and delusion. William Holdens preformance was also very well done. Sunset Boulevard is a great film that goes into the dangers of fame and obsession and what can happen. With its cinematography, good direction, and great performances, it’s one that will pull you in and leave you thinking about maybe the negatives of fame. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 11/12/24 Full Review Read all reviews

Sunset Boulevard

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