AFI 100 Years, 100 Movies: No. 53


Back in 1998, the American Film Institute unveiled its list of the 100 greatest films as voted on by members of the cinematic community. The year, I'm looking at the films on that list, re-ranked according to my preference. Check back Fridays and Saturdays throughout the year as we walk through this list of classic films.

Norma Desmond: No one ever leaves a star. That's what makes one a star.

Sunset Boulevard (1950)
Original List Position: 12
Starring: Gloria Swanson and William Holden
Director: Billy Wilder
About: This film is much more popular than where I have it placed. It was No. 12 on the original list and fell only to No. 16 10 years later. I get it. This is an iconic film with an engaging story and some great performances. Wilder is a talented director and I think he's delivered some excellent films that continue to resonate even decades later. This is an ambitious film that has some good component and an it's a fascinating watch. I just don't love it as much as some other films on this list. Still, it's an iconic watch, and another film that won Best Screenplay from the Oscars!

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