Gloria Swanson Double Bill: South West Silents

As part of the BFI's Too Much Melodrama season, South West Silents and Film Noir UK are proud to present this very special double bill celebrating the Melodrama Queen herself, Gloria Swanson (1899-1983). This event will consist of Allan Dwan's silent comedy classic Stage Struck (1925), which will be screened with live music, and Billy Wilder's noir masterpiece, Sunset Boulevard (1950).

Stage Struck (1925): Daydreaming waitress Jennie Hagen fantasizes about becoming a famous actress, while in reality she and her cook boyfriend, Orme Wilson, hope to one day own their own diner. Although Orme loves Jennie, he also has a weakness for stage stars – so when a riverboat theatrical crew comes to their town, he is smitten by lead actress Lillian Lyons. Desperate to keep Orme, Jennie insists on going onstage to best Lillian, but is soon out of her depth.

The film will be accompanied with live music.