‘Sunset Boulevard’ Turns 75: A Cinematic Reflection
This year marks the 75th anniversary of Sunset Boulevard, a film I regard as the second greatest ever made. The story follows Norma Desmond, a former silent film star, and Joe Gillis, an aspiring screenwriter caught in her fading quest for fame.
A Classic Tale of Fame and Decline
The movie depicts the decline of Norma Desmond, “who used to be big before the pictures got small,” and Joe Gillis, her unfortunate accomplice in a desperate comeback attempt. Their tragic dynamic has inspired many adaptations, including a poorly received Andrew Lloyd Webber musical that won a Tony Award.
My Personal Introduction to Norma Desmond
Surprisingly, my first exposure to Norma Desmond wasn’t through the original 1950 film directed by Billy Wilder, featuring Gloria Swanson’s Oscar-nominated performance alongside William Holden, Nancy Olson, and Jack Webb.
Instead, I encountered Norma Desmond through Carol Burnett’s parodies on The Carol Burnett Show. As a child, I didn’t realize the significance of the sketches, missing the direct connection to Wilder’s masterpiece.
“Sunset Boulevard turns 75 this year, which got me thinking about how I first discovered what I consider the second greatest movie ever made.”
Despite its challenges, the film remains a towering influence in cinema history and continues to shape portrayals of fame and illusion.
Author’s Summary
This reflection highlights how Sunset Boulevard's legacy endures 75 years later, shaped by iconic performances and personal memories of discovering Norma Desmond’s tragic story.