David M. Lubin

I have loved old movies since girlhood but somehow had never seen Sunset Boulevard, although I had seen snippets and heard about it. A local theater is showing it in August and we bought tickets to see it with our son, a movie buff. So, when I saw this book, I thought what a perfect read before seeing the movie. And, after reading it, I will get so much more out of the experience.

In Hollywood, memories are short. Indeed, that was a major theme of the movie about to be shot: the agony of show more being overlooked, or, worse, forgotten. from Ready for My Closeup

First, we learn about screenwriter Billy Wilder, a refugee from Nazi Germany whose films reflected his bitter view of humanity. The studio paired him with Charlie Brackett, whose straight laced idealism clashed with the womanizer Wilder.

I was surprised to learn about the “also-rans” and “failed comebacks” of the actors in this film about “has-beens.”

The actors include many whose careers were forged in the silent era when social conventions were being broken, the beginning of sexual liberation. Movies portrayed the changing marital and sexual relationships. Women wore daring costumes, showing lots of skin.

Gloria Swanson plays the lead, Norma, an aging film star in denial that her career is over, her fans moved on. Swanson had been a silent movie star, the first “modern” girl. Erich Von Stroheim, who sounds as disagreeable in life as his movie role characters, had directed Swanson in an unfinished film. He plays a butler to Swanson’s character. Master comedian of the silent era turned impoverished alcoholic, Buster Keaton has a cameo appearance.

Lubin covers every aspect of the film—set, music, lighting. The early cut was an audience failure,forcing Wilder to cut an opening scene he was proud of writing. The photographs in Norma’s house were Swanson’s personal collection. Cecile De Mille played the studio head in the film as he had for Swanson in life.

The dissection of the film was particularly well done, touching on the technological and artistic aspect of the film, and even the music.

The film has elements of horror and comedy, melodrama, and social satire. I look forward to seeing it on the big screen!

Fame is fleeting, accolades transient, and dreams of glory easily foiled. from Ready for My Closeup

Thanks to the publisher for a free book through NetGalley show less

Very un-inspiring, bad drawings and photographs.