Review of Sunset Boulevard (1950) by Chris W — 21 Jun 2011

This film about a struggling writer who becomes involved with a dangerously delusional washed up movie star is a film where everything about it, and all the pieces that make it up are top notch. This just may be one of the greatest films ever made. It's certainly one of the most influential.

There had been plenty of films about Hollywood (or some facet of it) before this came out, but this one marked a turning point by being one of the darkest and most cynical take on the world of film. It's still pretty high on that list today. It is a satire too, and ranks with perhaps solely Network on as being the most bitter satire out there.

This isn't really a horror film, but it sure as hell feels like one. Everything looks and feels really creepy and unnerving, and sometimes the tension is ratcheted up to its highest level. We the audience would like to feel pity for Norma Desmond, for the horrible way in which she's became ignored and cast off, but we can't because she's so out of touch that there's no really good way to get through to her. Whomever shows any sort of affection inevitably finds themselves forever trapped on a slippery slope.

As I said above, everyrhing about this is just wonderful, but I especially loved the music, lighting, set design, and cinematography. Of course, the performances and direction are brilliant as well, but I really became hooked by the dreary set up of things, and the noirish quality of it all. That this was art imitating life only makes things more powerful and gripping.

Do not hesitate to see this film. It in no way feels overrated. Sure, it doesn't seem so original now, but trust me, it's far better than all of its imitators.