Sunset Boulevard - Characters & Cast

Norma's primary motivation is to reclaim her lost stardom and return to the silver screen. She is driven by a desperate need for adoration and a belief in her own enduring greatness, a delusion fueled by her isolation and the actions of those around her.

Norma Desmond does not have a traditional character arc of growth; instead, her arc is one of descent. She begins the film in a state of delusion, which only deepens as her hopes for a comeback are falsely encouraged. Her obsession with Joe and her refusal to accept reality lead to a complete psychotic break by the film's conclusion.

Joe is initially motivated by financial desperation. He is willing to compromise his artistic integrity and personal freedom for a life of comfort and luxury. He also harbors a desire for success in Hollywood, a dream that becomes twisted and ultimately destroyed.

Joe begins as a cynical and opportunistic screenwriter. His journey is one of moral compromise as he allows himself to be kept by Norma. While he initially sees their arrangement as a temporary solution to his financial problems, he becomes increasingly entangled and corrupted. His attempts to break free come too late, leading to his tragic demise.

Max is motivated by a deep and abiding love for Norma. He sacrifices his own identity to protect her from the harsh realities of her faded stardom, believing that shielding her from the truth is an act of kindness, even as it contributes to her insanity.

Max's character is largely static, defined by his unwavering devotion to Norma. The significant revelation of his past as her first husband and a respected director adds depth to his character but does not change his actions. He remains her protector and the architect of her fantasy world until the very end.

Betty is motivated by a genuine passion for storytelling and a desire to create meaningful films. She is ambitious but not corrupted by the cynicism of Hollywood. Her belief in Joe's talent and her growing affection for him drive her to help him.

Betty represents a more optimistic and wholesome side of Hollywood. She begins as a script reader who is critical of Joe's work but sees his potential. She develops into a collaborative partner and a romantic interest for Joe, offering him a chance at a normal life and a more fulfilling career.