Sunset Boulevard

Sunset Boulevard

Year: 1950

Runtime: 110 min

Director: Billy Wilder

DramaFilm-Noir

In the City of Angels, where dreams are made and broken, a faded Hollywood icon's grip on reality falters, juxtaposing the American ideals of self-reliance and assimilation. A poignant exploration of the chasm between glamour and decay, as two seemingly disparate worlds collide in a quest for identity and belonging.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Sunset Boulevard (1950)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Sunset Boulevard (1950). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Mid-20th Century

The film takes place in the mid-20th century, a significant period for the movie industry where silent films transitioned to talkies. This era saw a mix of innovation and nostalgia, as old Hollywood started to witness the decline of its iconic stars. The social landscape was also changing, reflecting the struggles of many creative individuals trying to carve out their niche amidst evolving entertainment demands.

Location

Los Angeles, California, Sunset Boulevard, Paramount Pictures

Los Angeles is known as the heart of the American film industry, making it a prominent location for aspiring actors and filmmakers. Sunset Boulevard is particularly famous, symbolizing the blend of glamour and darkness within Hollywood. Paramount Pictures is one of the oldest film studios in the world, representing both historical significance and the shifting nature of cinematic success.

🏙️ City 🎥 Film Industry

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:32

Main Characters – Sunset Boulevard (1950)
Meet the key characters of Sunset Boulevard (1950), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Joe Gillis (William Holden)

Joe is a struggling screenwriter who finds himself entangled in a dangerous relationship with Norma Desmond. His desperation for success leads him to compromise his values, showcasing a character shaped by ambition and vulnerability. As the plot unfolds, Joe’s conflict becomes increasingly tragic, highlighting his struggle for freedom and a return to authenticity.

✍️ Writer 🆘 Struggling Artist

Norma Desmond (Gloria Swanson)

Norma is a faded silent film star who clings to the remnants of her past fame, embodying both grandeur and delusion. Her mental state deteriorates as she becomes more isolated and fixated on regaining her former glory, revealing the dark side of celebrity culture. Norma's tragic end serves as a powerful commentary on the fleeting nature of fame and its psychological repercussions.

🎭 Actress 🌟 Obsession

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:32

Major Themes – Sunset Boulevard (1950)
Explore the central themes of Sunset Boulevard (1950), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎬 Fame and Obsession

The film delves into the theme of fame and its effects on individuals, particularly Norma Desmond, who is trapped in her past glory. It showcases her obsession with reclaiming her status at any cost, leading to a tragic outcome. Joe Gillis's own ambition is intertwined with this theme, as he is drawn into Norma's world, illustrating the seductive yet destructive nature of fame.

💔 Love and Manipulation

The complex relationship between Joe and Norma highlights themes of love, dependency, and manipulation. Joe is torn between gratitude for Norma's support and the suffocating nature of their relationship. The emotional manipulation manifests as both characters struggle for power, revealing how love can become twisted and damaging when intertwined with ambition and desperation.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:32

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