Sunset Boulevard

The film opens with a dramatic sweep down Sunset Boulevard, establishing the glamorous yet deceptive world of Hollywood. Police vehicles rush toward an opulent mansion, setting a tone of mystery and foreboding.

In the mansion's swimming pool, the lifeless body of Joe Gillis floats, signaling the tragic end of his story. Through his voiceover, he begins to narrate the events that led to his demise, framing the film's central mystery.

Six months prior to his death, Joe Gillis struggled as a screenwriter, failing to make his mark in a competitive industry. As financial pressures mount, he contemplates leaving for an unfulfilling job, highlighting his sense of desperation.

Joe attempts to gain traction in Hollywood by pitching his script to Paramount Pictures but faces harsh criticism from script reader Betty Schaefer. Her review marks a significant blow to his already fragile confidence.

Fleeing from car repossessors, Joe unexpectedly finds refuge in a seemingly abandoned mansion on Sunset Boulevard. This strange turn of events leads him to the enigmatic Norma Desmond, setting the stage for their complex relationship.

Inside the mansion, Joe meets former silent film star Norma Desmond, who mistakenly believes he is an undertaker. She shows him her ambitious script about Salome, desperate for a return to the limelight.

Despite recognizing the flaws in her script, Joe finds himself complimenting Norma, which leads to her hiring him as an editor. This pivotal moment marks the start of Joe's financial dependence on Norma and the complexities in their relationship.

As Joe resides in the mansion, he becomes increasingly aware of his dependency on Norma and her lavish gifts. Despite discomfort, he begins working on her script and witnesses her refusal to confront her fading stardom.

Norma’s extravagant gifts culminate in an intimate New Year’s celebration, where it becomes clear that she harbors romantic feelings for Joe. His attempt to navigate this emotional minefield leaves him conflicted and anxious.

After realizing Norma has attempted suicide, Joe reconciles with her, leading to an intensification of their complicated relationship. As they grow closer, the line between care and manipulation blurs, adding tension to their dynamic.

Norma submits her completed script to the legendary Cecil B. DeMille, eagerly anticipating his response. As Joe observes her delusions, he learns of the lack of interest in her screenplay, which shatters her fragile sense of reality.

In a secretive collaboration, Joe works with Betty Schaefer on a new script, stirring feelings beyond friendship. This complicates matters as Betty’s engagement with Artie Green adds layers to Joe's emotional turmoil.

Upon discovering Joe's script collaboration with Betty, Norma reacts violently, accusing Joe of betrayal. This culminates in a dramatic confrontation that leaves both parties emotionally shaken, foreshadowing future tragedy.

Joe confronts Norma with harsh truths about her stardom and the deceptive nature of her fan mail. The emotional weight of this confrontation culminates in a heartbreaking climax as Norma shoots Joe, solidifying the tragedy.

As the police arrive to investigate Joe's death, Norma retreats into her fantasy world, believing she is on a film set. Max supports her delusions, encapsulating the tragic nature of her life as she declares readiness for her close-up.