Introduction Review The Apartment (1960) Movie
The Apartment (1960) is a classic romantic-comedy directed by Billy Wilder and starring Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine. The movie takes place in New York City and tells the story of C.C. Baxter (Lemmon), an insurance company employee who lends his apartment to his bosses for their extramarital affairs in order to climb the corporate ladder.
Baxter's life takes an unexpected turn when he falls for the elevator operator, Fran Kubelik (MacLaine), who is having an affair with Baxter's boss. The plot thickens as the audience watches these characters navigate their intertwined lives.
The Apartment (1960) is a well-crafted film that delves into complex themes such as infidelity, loneliness, and ambition. However, Wilder manages to balance these heavy topics with humor and wit, providing a delightful viewing experience. The film also boasts excellent performances from its leading actors, particularly Lemmon and MacLaine, whose chemistry on-screen is undeniable.
Overall, The Apartment (1960) is a timeless classic that remains relevant even after 60 years since its release. It received critical acclaim upon its release and won several awards, including five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. If you haven't watched this movie yet, it's definitely worth adding to your must-watch list.
Plot Summary Review: The Apartment (1960) Movie
The Storyline
The Apartment is a romantic comedy-drama directed by Billy Wilder and released in 1960. The movie stars Jack Lemmon, Shirley MacLaine and Fred MacMurray. The plot revolves around the life of a young man named C.C. Baxter, who works at a big insurance company in New York. Baxter lives in a small apartment that he lends to some of his superiors to use for their extramarital affairs. However, his life changes when he falls in love with the elevator girl in the office, Fran Kubelik.
The Characters
The characters in The Apartment are well-crafted, each with their own unique background and traits. Jack Lemmon portrays C.C. Baxter as a sympathetic and personable character, struggling to balance his morality and his desire to climb the corporate ladder. Shirley MacLaine plays Fran Kubelik, a vulnerable yet charming character. Fred MacMurray, on the other hand, is portrayed as the sleazy boss who uses Baxter's apartment for his own affairs.
The Themes
The Apartment tackles various themes such as infidelity, loneliness, and ambition. The movie explores how companies place profits over ethics, how power dynamics can be abusive, and how individuals struggle to find their place within society. The film presents these themes with humor, heart, and poignancy.
The Verdict
The Apartment is a masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Its clever script, strong character development, and seamless weaving of comedy and drama make it a must-watch for lovers of cinema. It's a film that will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on the human condition. The Apartment is a classic that will always be remembered as one of the greatest movies of all time.
Characters and Their Backgrounds Review of The Apartment (1960) Movie
The Apartment is a classic movie from 1960 directed by Billy Wilder. This movie showcases several characters, each with their unique background. The movie tells the story of C.C. Baxter, an insurance company clerk, who lends his apartment to his superiors to impress them for a promotion. However, this seemingly small favor leads to a series of comical and dramatic events.
C.C. Baxter played by Jack Lemmon is the main character of the movie. Baxter is a lonely character with no family or friends, who only could get ahead at his job by lending his apartment to his superiors. Despite his situation, he remains a likable character that the audience can relate to and empathize with.
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The other central character of the movie is Fran Kubelik, played by Shirley MacLaine. Fran is an elevator operator and the love interest of C.C. Baxter. Fran comes from a troubled background, which is only revealed later in the movie, leading to a dramatic and emotional moment that adds depth to her character.
The supporting cast of the movie adds more dimension to the characters, giving them different backgrounds and personalities. These characters include the manipulative and ruthless boss, Sheldrake played by Fred MacMurray, and Dr. Dreyfuss played by Jack Kruschen, Baxter's neighbor who provides him with advice and a good ear.
Overall, the characters and their backgrounds in The Apartment provide an engaging and entertaining movie experience. It is a movie that showcases the importance of character development and storytelling that has stood the test of time.
Setting and location Review: The Apartment (1960) Movie
Overview
The Apartment, directed by Billy Wilder and released in 1960, is set in New York City during the holiday season. The main character, C.C. Baxter, works at a large insurance company and lets senior executives use his apartment for their extramarital affairs. The movie portrays a stark contrast between the busy city life and Baxter’s cramped, dreary apartment. The film is a classic black and white movie that captures the era’s glamour and romance.
Location
The film was shot entirely on location in New York City, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the city's hustle and bustle during the holiday season. The film also touches on different locations in the city, such as the busy office buildings and crowded streets. Some of the most iconic locations include Baxter's office building on Park Avenue, Times Square, Grand Central Station, and the famous Tavern on the Green restaurant in Central Park.
Setting
The contrast between the city's grandeur and Baxter's cramped apartment complicates the protagonist's love story with Fran Kubelik. The bleak apartment with its limited space shows the struggles of living in a big city, while the luxurious office and corporate lifestyle showcase the cost of doing business in New York City. The film's setting highlights the emotional and economic toll that people pay while seeking their dreams in the Big Apple.
The Apartment is a must-see classic that provides a stunning portrait of New York City in the 1960s. The film portrays a vivid contrast between the city's glamour and the grim reality of those struggling to achieve their dreams. The setting and location of The Apartment offer a glimpse into a series of events that showcase the challenges of finding love and success in the bustling city.
Cinematography and Visual Effects: Review of The Apartment (1960) Movie
The Apartment, released in 1960, is a classic comedy-drama film that captures the essence of New York City in the 1950s. The film was directed by Billy Wilder and stars Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine. The cinematography and visual effects of The Apartment play an integral role in establishing the mood and atmosphere of the film.
The film's cinematography, executed by Joseph LaShelle, is simply brilliant. The shots throughout the movie are excellent, utilizing the space of the apartment building and the streets of New York City. Moreover, the use of contrast and black-and-white photography is fantastic, further highlighting the beauty and grittiness of the city.
In addition to the stunning cinematography, The Apartment also utilized some innovative visual effects. For instance, a scene in which a character watches a television show with a fictional cowboy is particularly impressive, as the filmmakers integrated the cowboy into the scenes of the apartment through clever use of editing techniques.
Overall, the combination of excellent cinematography and innovative visual effects makes The Apartment a visually captivating and stunning film. The teamwork of Billy Wilder and Joseph LaShelle produced a captivating and cinematic visual treat that has stood the test of time and continues to inspire filmmakers.
In conclusion, The Apartment is a masterpiece in the world of cinema, and its cinematography and visual effects are no exception. The film's stunning visuals provide an immersive experience that captures the mood and atmosphere of New York City beautifully. If you enjoy classic films that feature excellent visuals, then The Apartment is a must-watch.
Sound and Music Review The Apartment (1960) Movie
The Apartment (1960) is a romantic comedy-drama written and directed by Billy Wilder. This film has become a classic since its release and has garnered critical acclaim for its story, performances, and technical aspects. The sound production and music in the film add to the overall charm and ambiance of the story.
Sound Production
The sound production in The Apartment is subtle yet effective. The film has numerous outdoor and indoor scenes, and the sound team has ensured that the audio quality is consistent throughout the film. The dialogue delivery is clear, and the sound effects are well-balanced, making the film a pleasure to listen to.
Music
The music in The Apartment is composed by Adolph Deutsch, and it complements the story perfectly. One of the most memorable musical moments in the film is the use of the song "Jeepers Creepers" during a pivotal scene. The song helps to create a light-hearted and romantic atmosphere and adds to the overall charm of the scene.
The sound production and music in The Apartment (1960) are some of the highlights of the film. The technical aspects of the film are well-executed and add to the overall success of the story. The sound team and music composer have done an excellent job of ensuring that the sound and music enhance the story and make it a memorable film.
Themes and Messages Conveyed in The Apartment (1960) Movie
Overview
The Apartment is a 1960 romantic-comedy film directed by Billy Wilder that explores themes such as ambition, love and morality. The story follows C.C. Baxter (Jack Lemmon), an insurance company worker who lends his apartment to his seniors for their extra-marital affairs. He becomes romantically involved with Fran Kubelik (Shirley MacLaine), a woman who is having an affair with his boss.
Ambition
One of the significant themes of The Apartment is ambition. The main character, Baxter, desires to climb the corporate ladder, and he is willing to lend his apartment to his seniors to advance his career. He initially traded his integrity for success, but he eventually realizes that the act not only conflicts with his moral compass but also leads him to loneliness. The film, therefore, shows the audience how compromising your values for your ambition can have disastrous consequences.
Love
Love is the central theme in The Apartment. Baxter and Fran's relationship presents a tangled love story as they both struggle to find meaning in their lives. The film suggests that while love should not be founded on deceit, it can blossom in the most unexpected situations. Fran and Baxter's journey introduces the audience to the idea that love is not always perfect but can be found in the most unlikely places.
Morality
The Apartment also tackles morality. The film shows how immoral practices, such as adultery, can destroy lives and relationships. The movie depicts the moral decay that comes with uncontrolled ambition and displays redemption through individuals who choose to do the right thing. As much as the film inspires the audience with lessons on love and ambition, it also cautions against unethical practices, reminding us of the importance of upholding our own moral standards.
The Apartment is a timeless classic that provides its audience with valuable insights into the complexities of love, ambition, and moral values. The film remains relevant even today as it urges us to reconsider the consequences of our actions. Billy Wilder's masterful direction and the incredible performances by the cast make The Apartment a must-watch for anyone keen on studying the art of filmmaking.
Critical Reception and Reviews Review The Apartment (1960) Movie
The Apartment is a 1960 romantic comedy-drama directed by Billy Wilder. Starring Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine, the film explores the morally ambiguous world of corporate life and extramarital affairs. Upon its release, The Apartment was a critical and commercial success, earning five Academy Awards and receiving positive reviews from film critics.
Critics praised the film's screenplay, direction, and performances, with particular attention to Lemmon's portrayal of C.C. Baxter. The New York Times critic Bosley Crowther wrote that the film was "a scathingly funny and lively picture", and praised the "sudden twists in the story that bring both comedy and poignant drama". Similarly, Variety stated that "Wilder has come up with a winner", and praised the film's unique mix of comedy and drama.
Despite its success, the film was not without its detractors. Some critics expressed discomfort with the film's treatment of cheating and extramarital affairs, particularly in the film's portrayal of women. The Chicago Tribune's reviewer wrote that the film was "marred...by the sordid implications and offensiveness of its central theme".
Overall, however, The Apartment remains a classic of American cinema, beloved by audiences and hailed by critics as a masterpiece of mid-century filmmaking. Its nuanced portrayal of complex moral issues and its unforgettable performances continue to captivate audiences today.
Box Office performance and awards won Review The Apartment (1960) Movie
The Apartment is a classic Hollywood movie that was released in 1960. The movie was directed by Billy Wilder and starred Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine, among others. The movie was a commercial success and received critical acclaim.
In terms of box office performance, The Apartment was a hit. The movie grossed over $25 million in the United States alone. Adjusted for inflation, that amount would be closer to $230 million today. The movie was a testament to the creativity and talent of Billy Wilder, who was renowned for his expert direction of movies.
The Apartment was also a recipient of several awards. The movie won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Screenplay. Jack Lemmon was nominated for Best Actor, but did not win. Shirley MacLaine was not nominated for her performance in the movie. However, the movie cemented her position as one of the most talented actresses in Hollywood.
The success of The Apartment was a representation of the changing times in Hollywood. The 1950s and 1960s were a period of great change in Hollywood, as filmmakers started exploring new themes and approaches to filmmaking. The Apartment was a bold movie that dealt with serious issues like adultery and corporate culture.
In conclusion, The Apartment was a significant movie of its time. The movie's box office performance and the awards it won are a testament to its enduring popularity. The movie remains a classic of American cinema and is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in the history of Hollywood.
Conclusion Review The Apartment (1960) Movie
A Classic That Will Stand the Test of Time
The Apartment is a timeless classic film that has managed to remain popular and beloved by audiences worldwide for over 60 years. This movie is a perfect example of how powerful storytelling and excellent cinematography can create an unforgettable experience for the viewers.
A Perfect Blend of Comedy and Drama
What makes The Apartment an instant classic is the perfect combination of comedy and drama. The film's comedic elements are cleverly interwoven with the underlying dramatic plot, creating a seamless blend of both genres. The result is a movie that not only entertains but also delivers a poignant message about human relationships and the consequences of our actions.
A Stellar Cast and Crew
The Apartment's success can also be attributed to the talented cast and crew who brought the story to life. The film boasts an all-star cast, with Jack Lemmon and Shirley Maclaine delivering captivating performances that are both funny and heart-wrenching. Director Billy Wilder's masterful filmmaking skills are evident in every scene, and his attention to detail creates a world that feels both authentic and timeless.
A Must-Watch for Every Movie Buff
In conclusion, The Apartment is a cinematic gem that deserves to be watched and re-watched by every movie enthusiast. Its universal themes and timeless storytelling have made it a classic that will continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come. If you haven't had the chance to watch it, put it on your list of must-see movies, and you won't be disappointed.
The Apartment (1960): A Timeless Classic with a Heart
The Apartment is a black and white dramedy film that was released in 1960, starring Jack Lemmon, Shirley MacLaine, and Fred MacMurray. Directed by Billy Wilder and written by Wilder and I.A.L. Diamond, the film tells the story of a man's rise in the corporate world as he finds himself in a moral dilemma with his boss and a love affair with a young woman who has also fallen into despair.
The film starts with the character C.C. Baxter (Jack Lemmon), an office drone who loans his apartment out to his bosses for their secret affairs in hopes of securing a promotion. The situation grows complicated when the elevator girl, Fran Kubelik (Shirley MacLaine), with whom Baxter has fallen in love, becomes involved with Baxter's boss, Jeff D. Sheldrake (Fred MacMurray).
The Apartment is a timeless classic because of its ability to explore serious issues with a light touch. It balances broad comedy with poignant drama in an effortless way that was rare for the time. The film delves into themes of loneliness, infidelity, and the corrupt power dynamic of corporate America in a way that still resonates with audiences today.
The performances in the film are exceptional, with Jack Lemmon's portrayal of Baxter as a sensitive, hapless everyman who tries to do the right thing, solidifying his status as one of cinema's greatest actors. Shirley MacLaine also shines as the elevator girl whose sadness is palpable and ultimately heart-breaking.
The Apartment is a must-see film for anyone who appreciates great storytelling, brilliant performances, and the magic of cinema. It is a reminder that even the most seemingly ordinary people have the capacity for extraordinary feats of kindness and courage.
So, what are you waiting for? Give The Apartment a watch and join the countless cinema lovers who have been captivated by this timeless classic.
Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoy the film as much as I did. Don't forget to share this review with your friends and loved ones. Until we meet again!
