Review of Sunset Boulevard (1950) by Justin C — 24 Jul 2010
Shot for shot, Billy Wilder has constructed a masterpiece. Simple aestetics like a corpse in a pool or the lack of a doorknob reach a profound significance when in the hands of a true artist. These minor visuals are awe-inspiring, and made gut-wrenching through the stellar talents of Gloria Swanson and William Holden, among others.
The attention to detail and realism in the film is also striking, as a critic with silent-era experience can tell you. When Norma Desmond has dinner guests, they too are comprised of washed-outs from the silent age.
They knew the strife presented in this film, and it shows on their downturned expressions and malaise. Even the history surrounding Sunset Blvd. adds more light to this fantastic film. The more one knows about Sunset, the more Hollywood is brought to life.
The loyalties, the betrayal, the isolation, the melancholy. Truly, there is no other film that so perfectly captures the seedy side of our nations film industry.
This review of Sunset Boulevard (1950) was written by Justin C on 24 Jul 2010.
Sunset Boulevard has generally received very positive reviews.
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