It looks like Sunset Boulevard is coming back to theaters, but not in the way you might be expecting. Rather than making a straight-up remake of Billy Wilder's iconic 1950 film (which would be poorly advised), the new version would be based on the Broadway stage musical adaptation of Sunset Boulevard. The studio didn't have to think very hard to find who would be perfect to play the lead in the musical movie either. Reports are claiming that Glenn Close, who originated the role on Broadway, is in talks to star in the movie.
Per The Wrap, Paramount Pictures is looking to turn the Sunset Boulevard stage musical into a film. Andrew Lloyd Webber adapted the iconic film into a musical back in 1994, where Glenn Close played the lead role as demented former Hollywood star, Norma Desmond. As the saying goes, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it," and Paramount is looking to cast Close in their movie adaptation as the lead. Reportedly, Close is in advanced talks to play the role she originated back in 1994. The studio is also actively searching for a director and male star, with Ryan Murphy having apparently been approached to helm the project.
A film adaptation of a Broadway musical which was itself an adaptation of a film is actually not that uncommon. Some may remember that 2007's Hairspray was in the exact same situation, as well as the 2005 film, The Producers. The former was very successful, while the latter was a commercial failure, so these things aren't always as big a hit as the stage versions.
As for Glenn Close being sought for the lead, it's basically the definition of a no-brainer. Andrew Lloyd Webber's stage musical adaptation of Sunset Boulevard was nominated for 11 Tony Awards in 1995 and won seven of them, including Best Musical. Glenn Close won herself a Tony for Best Lead Actress, so it makes sense Paramount thinks lightning will strike twice. Sunset Boulevard has had a long history on the stage and just recently ended a 2017 revival run back in June, once again starring Close. That may have reignited Paramount's interest in getting a movie adaptation off the ground again.
Sunset Boulevard is a classic noir film from Billy Wilder. It follows a down on his luck screenwriter who finds himself working for Norma Desmond, a reclusive ex-star who has deluded herself into thinking she's still relevant. It's a twisted and engaging movie, that every movie fan should see at least once in their life. There's no guarantee that another movie will be as successful as the first, but Paramount is looking to roll the dice anyway. We'll keep you updated on all the developments as soon as the information is available.
