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Jun 19, 2023
Sunset Blvd
A Film by Billy Wilder
Summary
How would you handle years of adoration and fame? Do you think you’d still be, essentially, yourself but with a better car—or would you become a different person? Join Mike and Dan for a conversation about Sunset Blvd, Billy Wilder’s 1950 look at the movie industry, the drug of fame, and what happens when the public no longer buys what a star is selling. Norma Desmond may be a figure of fun—but she’s not wrong. Network, Some Like it Hot, and the biggest trial of 1995 all enter the discussion. So tell Mr. DeMille you’re ready for your close-up and give it a listen!
You can find Joseph McBride’s recent biography of Billy Wilder here. Sam Staggs’ book-length study of Sunset Blvd can be found here.
Follow us on Twitter or Letterboxd. Incredible bumper music by John Deley.
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Your Host
Fifteen Minute Film Fanatics
Two friends with strong opinions watch films separately then discuss them on the show for the first time. Can their friendship survive? Join Mike and Dan as they discuss one film each episode--and in only fifteen minutes, give or take a few. There are no long pauses, pontifications, or politics--just two guys who want to share their enthusiasm for great movies. On Twitter. On Letterboxd. Email: fifteenminutefilm@gmail.com.
