“The two styles work very well together”: This is Clint Eastwood’s favorite film and one of the greatest masterpieces in the history of cinema!

“The two styles work very well together”: This is Clint Eastwood’s favorite film and one of the greatest masterpieces in the history of cinema!

When you think of Clint Eastwood, the first titles that come to mind are inevitably legendary westerns like The Good, The Bad and the Ugly or Relentless. However, when asked to name the film that influenced him the most, Eastwood surprised everyone. In 2016, during an interview with the magazine EsquireHe revealed that he had a special love for the film, which was far from dusty plains and gun duels.

This movie is Twilight Boulevard (Sunset Blvdd), directed by Billy Wilder. This monument of American cinema, released in 1950, is often cited among the greatest works of the 7th art. And for that Clint EastwoodWithout a doubt, this dark and cynical Hollywood behind-the-scenes drama is his all-time favorite.

During the interview, the journalist asked him why this choice was made. The actor-director’s answer is clear:Two different styles: the silent film actor, then the William Holden character, more modern. These two styles work well together. And I’ve always liked Billy Wilder.“A statement that speaks volumes for Eastwood’s keen cinematic eye.

A cruel mirror was held up to the Hollywood industry

Twilight Boulevard Paints a chilling portrait of a ruthless Hollywood where dreams are crushed and careers fade faster than they grow. The film stars Norma Desmond, a former silent film star isolated in her villa, convinced that she will soon return, even though the world has long shunned her. Gloria Swanson skillfully plays this role, especially in the final scene, which has become an emblem in the history of cinema.

Another standout figure in the film: Erich von Stroheim, the hugely silent filmmaker who here plays the ex-director-turned-norm’s butler. A role full of irony, as Stroheim himself saw his career destroyed by the Hollywood system: “Hollywood killed me“, he said. With this film, he won the only Oscar nomination as the best supporting actor.

A legendary film with a still relevant theme

Twilight Boulevard This isn’t just a sour critique of the industry. It’s also a vivid look at a changing world, a Hollywood in full transition, torn between its glorious past and the promise of an uncertain future. Just as the 1950s were about to usher in a new golden age for the studios, Billy Wilder It is already showing its shortcomings.

The film left its mark on generations, both on viewers and film professionals. and Clint Eastwood There is no exception. Like other great names in the profession, one finds in this work a rare depth, a mixture of human tragedy and deadpan satire.

Often surprising taste among the stars

Movie-loving secrets of actors sometimes offer unexpected surprises. We learn that Vin Diesel, best known for his muscular roles in Fast & Furious, has named Gone With the Wind as his favorite movie. Or that Emma Stone was deeply influenced by Charlie Chaplin’s City Lights. A choice that brings out the more sensitive or artistic side of these big screen personalities.

But in that case Clint Eastwoodchoice Twilight Boulevard It only confirms what his films reveal: behind the Western icon is a passion for cinema in all its complexity.

Boulevard du crepuscule can be seen on France TV or VOD.

Source: Allocine

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