Director Research

Director Research

Billy Wilder:

Billy Wilder was one of the first directors to tackle the film noir genre. He became a true pioneer and originator of the genre with films like 'Double Indemnity' and 'Sunset Boulevard'. He also made classics outside the genre, like 'The Apartment', 'Ace in the Hole', 'Stalag 17' and 'Some Like It Hot'. What differentiates Wilder from other noir directors, of the 1940s and 1950s, is the originality present within 'Double Indemnity' and 'Sunset Boulevard'. These films essentially created the trope of the main character in noir narrating throughout the film. In 'Double Indemnity', at the beginning of the film, the lead character records himself talking about the events that have just taken place, providing the basis for the film's narrative. Similarly, in 'Sunset Boulevard', the lead character narrates the events that have just taken place, only it is from the dead this time.

'Double Indemnity' also features an incredibly original and intricate plot, while 'Sunset Boulevard' is a fantastic drama that highlights the true dark nature of Hollywood, perhaps influencing future noirs like 'Mulholland Drive'. These films definitely appeared more mature than other noirs, like 'The Maltese Falcon', from during this time period. Furthermore, they feature two of the original femme fatals of the genre, influencing female noir characters for decades to come.