Sunset Boulevard, a film that left an indelible mark on cinema history, has a special place in the heart of Nancy Olson. The legendary actress, now 92, shares a fascinating behind-the-scenes story about her unforgettable love scene with William Holden. "We were kissing, and it seemed to go on forever," Nancy recounts to the latest issue of Closer magazine, currently on newsstands. "Then, suddenly, a voice yelled out, 'Cut, goddamn it, cut!' It was none other than Bill Holden's wife!" This dramatic moment is just one of the many instances where the boundary between art and real life blurred in Billy Wilder's iconic 1950 film noir.
A Masterpiece That Blurs Fact and Fiction
Wilder's genius lay in seamlessly weaving real-life personalities into the fabric of his cinematic masterpiece. The film tells the story of Norma Desmond, a faded silent film star played by Gloria Swanson, who hires struggling screenwriter Joe Gillis, portrayed by Holden, as part of her comeback plan. Nancy, reflecting on the experience, recalls how the characters mirrored the actors' real-life struggles. "Swanson was a star whose career had been discarded, much like Norma Desmond," she explains. "Bill Holden, too, was facing career challenges and dealing with personal issues like excessive drinking." Despite these challenges, they all recognized the potential of the project. "Bill understood that working with Wilder could redefine his career, and it certainly did," Nancy adds with admiration.
Cameos That Elevated the Film
Wilder's decision to include cameos from real-life figures like Buster Keaton and Cecil B. DeMille added layers of authenticity to the film. "Everyone in the movie played themselves," Nancy explains, emphasizing the authenticity of the performances. This approach not only enriched the narrative but also deepened the audience's connection to the characters. The film's ability to reflect the realities of Hollywood life was a testament to Wilder's vision and the actors' willingness to embrace their own vulnerabilities on screen.
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The Iconic Lines and Casting Controversies
It's difficult to imagine anyone other than Gloria Swanson delivering the unforgettable line, "Mr. DeMille, I’m ready for my close-up." However, Wilder initially pursued Greta Garbo for the role. "She never gave him a definitive answer," notes Sam Staggs, author of Close-Up on Sunset Boulevard. The filmmakers also considered Mae West, but ultimately deemed her too comedic for the part. These casting deliberations highlight the meticulous process Wilder undertook to ensure the film's authenticity and impact.
Montgomery Clift was initially cast as Joe Gillis, but he eventually withdrew from the role. His reasons were deeply personal, as he was involved in a controversial relationship with singer Libby Holman, who had been linked to the death of her husband in 1932. Monty feared that taking on the role would lead people to mistakenly believe he was "the lover she killed her husband for," according to Staggs. This decision highlights the delicate balance actors must strike between their personal lives and professional roles.
The Initial Backlash and Ultimate Triumph
When Sunset Boulevard premiered, it sparked a mix of reactions within Hollywood circles. MGM head Louis B. Mayer, for instance, was incensed. "He confronted Billy after a screening and exclaimed, 'How dare you do this to us!'" Nancy recalls. Despite the initial backlash, the film received 11 Oscar nominations and went on to become a beloved classic, cherished by audiences worldwide. As Norma Desmond famously said, it resonated deeply with "all those wonderful people out there in the dark."
For more captivating stories like this, be sure to grab the latest issue of Closer magazine, available now on newsstands!
Reporting by Katie Bruno and Lexi Ciccone
