This month marks the 75th anniversary of Sunset Boulevard, Billy Wilder’s iconic Hollywood satire that remains a timeless cinematic masterpiece. To celebrate the occasion, Paramount Pictures has released a new 4K Ultra HD restoration, which debuted at Cannes and is now available via streaming and physical media.
Originally released in 1950, Sunset Boulevard follows the doomed relationship between Joe Gillis (played by William Holden), a struggling screenwriter, and Norma Desmond (Gloria Swanson), a once-famous silent film star. The film is revered for its dark humor, honest portrayal of Hollywood, and deep emotional core.
Nancy Olson Reflects on Her Role in “Sunset Boulevard”
Nancy Olson, now 97, portrayed Betty Schaefer, Gillis’ love interest and moral anchor. Her performance earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Reflecting on the film’s legacy, Olson told IndieWire:
“We knew we were at another level of filmmaking. There was something being asked of us that was not ordinary.”
At only 22 years old, Olson transitioned from her first film, Canadian Pacific, into Wilder’s world. She described how working with the camera required a different skillset than theater, something she learned just in time for her performance in Sunset Boulevard.
Casting and Wilder’s Unique Approach
Before being cast, Olson was under contract with Paramount and had no idea she was being considered for the role. Director Billy Wilder would often engage her in casual conversations about her life, subtly gauging her personality for the character of Betty Schaefer.
Wilder wanted Olson to embody the role authentically, even requesting that she wear her own clothes in the film. Olson recalled:
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“I didn’t have a great wardrobe! But that’s how much he wanted me to be simply me.”
Interestingly, despite the film’s reputation for polish, Wilder was known for shooting only one take per scene. Olson shared how this shocked her and other actors, including Shirley MacLaine. In her first scene with Holden and Fred Clark, she stumbled but was surprised when Wilder printed the take without any retakes.
Enduring Legacy and 4K Release
Wilder’s minimalistic yet demanding style helped shape what became one of the most enduring films in cinema history. Now, 75 years later, Sunset Boulevard continues to captivate audiences and filmmakers alike.
The newly restored 4K Ultra HD edition is now available for purchase or rental, with the physical release set for August 5. This restoration ensures that both new and longtime fans can experience the film’s visual and narrative brilliance like never before.
