A screenwriter develops a dangerous relationship with a faded film star determined to make a triumphant return. Sunset Blvd marks Billy Wilder’s fourth appearance on the American Film Institute’s “100 Greatest Films” list, and rightfully so. I’ve argued repeatedly that there are too many Western’s on this list, but I would also argue that there’s never enough Billy Wilder. That man, time and time again, … Continue reading 16. Sunset Blvd. (1950)
After two male musicians witness a mob hit, they flee the state in an all-female band disguised as women, but further complications set in. Some Like it Hot, written and directed by the great Billy Wilder, is, in fact, one of my favorite films. However, I’m trying to figure out how the film has aged. I’m trying to figure out if this classic romantic comedy … Continue reading 22. Some Like it Hot (1959)
An insurance representative lets himself be talked by a seductive housewife into a murder/insurance fraud scheme that arouses the suspicion of an insurance investigator. To me, Double Indemnity is the quintessential film noir. Although, this film was made before that term had ever even been used. It has everything that a film noir should have: narration, a femme fatale, an air of mystery, dramatic lighting, fast dialogue, … Continue reading 29. Double Indemnity (1944)
“A man tries to rise in his company by letting its executives use his apartment for trysts, but complications and a romance of his own ensue.” There’s a reason this film was nominated for ten Academy Awards. There’s a reason that this film won five of those awards, including Best Picture. There are very few filmmakers/screenwriters that I know of that can tell a story … Continue reading 80. The Apartment(1960)
