Rating of
3.5/4
Sunset Boulevard review
Daniel Corleone - wrote on 10/09/11
Joseph C. Gillis (William Holden) accidentally parks into the garage of aging star Norma Desmond (Norma Swanson). Betty Shaefer (Olson) is assisted by Joseph in creating a screenplay while Norma’s loyal butler Max (von Stroheim) keeps an eye on him. One of a few noteworthy lines: Norma Desmond – “The stars are ageless, aren't they?” “All right, Mr. DeMille, I'm ready for my close-up.” Joe Gillis – “Life can be beautiful!” Screenplay was well written and the plot very interesting. Soundtrack was soothing the ears unfortunately the characters were not likable. You have a girl about to get married and yet falls for a writer she doesn’t know well, the writer rides the wave of luck since her partner is rich while an fading Hollywood star tried to regain her glory by expecting a picture that will never happen. The flawed individuals, a murder and a deranged character who longs for fame again were interesting but not that appealing for my taste. Brilliant performances from the artists coupled with the lush set locations. Sunset Boulevard looks dated but it still effectively executed the lovely story and had some humor injected.
