Who is Norma Desmond based on?
The character of “Norma Desmond” is a fictional composite inspired by several real-life faded silent-film stars, such as the reclusive existence of Mary Pickford, the mental disorders of Mae Murray and Clara Bow and the grotesque, and even predatory acting style of Norma Talmadge.
Who played Sunset Boulevard in London?
London revivals Opening on 4 April 2016 English National Opera (ENO) presented a five-week ‘semi-staged’ run at the London Coliseum. Glenn Close reprised her role as Norma, making her West End debut, along with Michael Xavier as Joe, Siobhan Dillon as Betty and Fred Johanson as Max.
What is the story behind Sunset Boulevard?
Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc. A sharp critique of the film industry, Sunset Boulevard centres on the delusional aging silent-film queen Norma Desmond (played by Swanson), who lives in a ramshackle mansion with her butler and former husband (Erich von Stroheim) while planning a doomed comeback.
Who played opposite Glenn Close in Sunset Boulevard?
Rob Ashford Will Direct Glenn Close in Sunset Boulevard Film | Playbill. The seven-time Oscar nominee is preparing for her close-up.
Is Sunset Boulevard based on a true story?
Wilder and Brackett told everyone at Paramount and the Production code that the screenplay was based on the story A Can of Beans by Wilder, Brackett, and D.M. Marshman Jr. Sunset Boulevard was the last time Brackett and Wilder collaborated on a film. They had paired up in pictures since 1938.
Was Sunset Boulevard a hit?
The film “Sunset Boulevard” premiered almost 68 years ago, but it might as well have come out today. From the moment it hit theaters in 1950, the film was a hit with audiences and critics alike.
What is the last line in Sunset Boulevard?
The final line of the the 1950 movie Sunset Boulevard was delivered by Gloria Swanson’s incomparable Norma Desmond: “You see, this is my life. It always will be! There’s nothing else – just us – and the cameras – and those wonderful people out there in the dark.
Who were the card players in Sunset Boulevard?
11. The “waxworks,” Norma’s fellow silent-film ghosts who come over to play bridge, were played by real-life silent relics Buster Keaton, Anna Q. Nilsson, and H.B. Warner. In real life, Keaton had a reputation as one of Hollywood’s best bridge players.
Who is Max in Sunset Boulevard?
Max von Mayerling is a supporting character in the 1950 Billy Wilder film Sunset Boulevard. He’s Norma’s personal butler who works in her mansion and talks guides Joe through his visit with Norma. He was also Norma’s first husband and a former director who had discovered her initially.