Review of Sunset Boulevard (1950) by Zack M — 21 May 2011

What a fantastic classic. It was perfectly crafted and made even small melodramatic scenes intriguing. There were really bland parts of the story to be sure, but with a razor sharp script and great delivery by the actors it gave an edge to what could have been a very dull plot. The script gives an amazing depth to the characters themselves. They personify deep themes about acceptance. Whether this be in the form of an aging actress, or a writer struggling to break into show business, or a woman looking for love, or even a butler who is just wanting to be a support each character subtly illuminates that person inside of us all trying to find a sense of purpose.

The directing is a different subject entirely when talking about this film. Every scene is absolutely gorgeous in its own right. The angles and the lighting Wilder is able to utilize succeeds in being beautifully shot, and yet not detracting from what it is filming.

I could give this a higher score if it were only for more flushing out of the main character. I felt that every single character in the film contained depth and you were able to look into their psyche. Unfortunately that did not happen with the most important character in the film. I didn't have nearly as much connection to the person I was following through the story as I did with everyone else.

This film is completely deserving of its classic status and is an important watch for anyone who enjoys a psychoanalytical, and gorgeous film noire.