Unemployed screenwriter Joe Gillis (Holden) is found dead in a swimming pool. From then on, his voice narrates his relationship with silent film star Norma Desmond (Swenson), who suffers from delusions of grandeur. At 50, she stubbornly tries to look young, lives in a mansion on Sunset Boulevard, and spends every night holding a memorial service for her monkey. She is served by a gloomy butler, her ex-husband and first director.

The film contains many subtle jibes about how the film industry encourages anyone who behaves like a monster. Full of contrasts and cynicism, it also has a sentimental love story at its heart.

Despite being released 60 years ago, the film has lost none of its relevance and topicality.