Review of Sunset Boulevard (1950) by Xgary X — 02 Aug 2009

Why do we love it so much when Hollywood is its own voyeur? Or, find it so fascinating when films take a look at the inner works of the lives of people involved in the arts? Well, that's just part of what makes this a great film. When William Holden's voice comes over as the narration and yet you know that's him lying in the pool dead in the first scene, you know you're in for something first-rate. The script/story is brilliant, an inspired idea (not to mention getting an actress that literally fit the bill). The acting is terrific, especially what is a tour-de-force performance embodied in the comeback of Gloria Swanson. William Holden is great, too, as the leading man, and Eric von Stroheim is ingeniously subtle as the shadowy butler. The music is deliciously melodramatic, giving it an air of noir, and as well, that of a silent picture, something where the music had to dominate, almost over-express itself. I can't help but love all the little nods to old Hollywood too.

It is, in some ways, a comedy, in some ways a sharp biting satire, and in some ways, a noir mystery (even though you already know how it ends from the beginning). But, when you add Hollywood as its backdrop it makes it all the more smart for its time period. The best film about Hollywood.