''Sunset Boulevard'' 2, with William Holden and Gloria Swanson, 1950

by Retro Movie Posters

Title

''Sunset Boulevard'' 2, with William Holden and Gloria Swanson, 1950

Artist

Retro Movie Posters

Medium

Mixed Media - Vintage Movie Posters

Description

A vintage movie poster of ''Sunset Boulevard'', a 1950 American film noir directed by Billy Wilder and starring William Holden and Gloria Swanson. It is a classic of the film noir genre and is known for its dark and cynical portrayal of Hollywood and the film industry. Here is a description of the film:

Plot:
"Sunset Boulevard" is a dark and haunting tale set in the world of Hollywood's fading silent film era. The film opens with the voice-over narration of Joe Gillis (played by William Holden), a struggling screenwriter who is down on his luck and in dire financial straits. Joe is pursued by creditors and is on the run from repossession agents who are after his car.

While trying to evade his pursuers, Joe stumbles upon the decaying mansion of Norma Desmond (played by Gloria Swanson), a reclusive and delusional former silent film star who lives in seclusion with her loyal butler and former director, Max von Mayerling (played by Erich von Stroheim). Norma mistakes Joe for a funeral director and recruits him to help her prepare the burial of her pet chimpanzee.

Joe, desperate for money, agrees to work for Norma, initially as a script reader. However, he soon becomes entangled in her world of delusion and fantasy. Norma is convinced that her return to the silver screen is imminent and hires Joe to write a script for her comeback film, which she believes will revive her career.

As Joe becomes more deeply involved with Norma, he realizes the extent of her mental instability and her obsession with him. Their relationship becomes increasingly complicated and toxic, leading to a dramatic and tragic conclusion.

The film is a dark exploration of fame, obsession, and the price of success in Hollywood. It delves into the world of faded stars, the cult of celebrity, and the ruthless nature of the entertainment industry. Norma Desmond's character, in particular, is a complex and tragic figure whose descent into madness is both poignant and disturbing.

"Sunset Boulevard" is known for its sharp and biting screenplay, filled with witty and memorable lines. It is narrated by the deceased Joe Gillis from beyond the grave, providing a unique narrative perspective.

Gloria Swanson delivers a tour de force performance as Norma Desmond, capturing the character's grandeur, vulnerability, and descent into madness. William Holden is equally compelling as Joe Gillis, portraying the character's moral dilemma and moral decay.

The film's cinematography, direction, and score contribute to its noir atmosphere and dark tone. It remains a classic of American cinema and is celebrated for its exploration of the darker side of Hollywood and the human psyche. "Sunset Boulevard" is considered one of Billy Wilder's masterpieces and a landmark in film history.1950.

Uploaded

May 6th, 2021

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