Sunset Boulevard (1950) Review in 2025
A classic film noir that follows the story of a struggling screenwriter who becomes obsessed with a faded movie star, leading to a dark and twisted tale of love, greed, and deception.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to mature themes, violence, and suggestive content.
CineReview Recommendation
This film is a must-see for fans of classic film noir, drama, and thriller. It's a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences to this day. Watch it in theaters or on a big screen for the best viewing experience.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie follows Joe Gillis, a struggling screenwriter who becomes infatuated with Norma Desmond, a faded movie star who lives in the past. As Joe becomes more and more entrenched in Norma's world, he becomes embroiled in a complex web of deceit and manipulation, leading to a tragic and devastating conclusion.
Review Details
story9.80/10
The story is a masterclass in tension and suspense, with a complex and engaging plot that keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat. The film's themes of obsession, greed, and deception are timeless and universally relatable.
acting9.80/10
The acting in the film is superb, with each actor bringing their own unique level of depth and nuance to their character. Gloria Swanson's performance as Norma Desmond is particularly noteworthy, bringing a level of complexity and emotion to the character that is rare in film.
characters9.50/10
The characters in the film are multidimensional and complex, with each one bringing their own unique perspective to the story. Gloria Swanson's performance as Norma Desmond is particularly noteworthy, bringing a level of depth and nuance to the character that is rare in film.
direction9.80/10
Billy Wilder's direction is impeccable, bringing a level of style and sophistication to the film that is unmatched. The cinematography is stunning, with a use of shadows and lighting that is both beautiful and haunting.
cinematography9.50/10
The cinematography in the film is breathtaking, with a use of shadows and lighting that is both beautiful and haunting. The black-and-white cinematography adds to the film's sense of nostalgia and timelessness.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's complex and engaging plot, multidimensional characters, and stunning cinematography make it a must-see for fans of classic film noir. The performances of the cast, particularly Gloria Swanson, are superb and bring a level of depth and nuance to the characters.
Cons
The film's mature themes, violence, and suggestive content may not be suitable for all audiences. The pacing can be slow at times, but this is a minor complaint in an otherwise masterful film.
Notable Quotes
"A writer needs a lot of friends because isolation is a demon."
"All right, Mr. DeMille, I'm ready for my close-up."
"I am big! It's the pictures that got small!"
