OLDIE GOLDIES: Sunset Blvd. (1950)

This week on Oldie Goldies I highlight one of the best movies about the movies - "Sunset Blvd.". Similar to its thematic sibling of the year ("All About Eve"), the film centers largely on an aging actress desperately trying to hold on to her fame. Playing that role here is the striking Gloria Swanson, who does justice to this plum role. The film surrounding her is equally as riveting, from the brilliant screenplay to the haunting art direction and cinematography. The AMPAS certainly agreed, awarding the film with 3 Oscars (Best Writing, Best Art Direction, Best Score) in addition to nominations for: Best Editing, Best Cinematography, Best Director, Best Supporting Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Best Actress, Best Actor and Best Picture.

Classic Quote

"All right, Mr. DeMille, I'm ready for my close-up."

Classic Scene

"I'm ready for my close-up."

Classic Characters

Joe Gillis (William Holden)

Norma Desmond (Gloria Swanson)

Max Von Mayerling (Erich von Stroheim)

Betty Schaefer (Nancy Olson)

Classic Music

Did you know?

Swanson was chagrined at the notion of submitting to a screen test, saying she had "made twenty films for Paramount. Why do they want me to audition?"