The Apartment by Billy Wilder
One-line Summary:
In Billy Wilder’s “The Apartment,” a lonely office worker allows his superiors to use his apartment for their extramarital affairs, but complications arise when he falls for his boss’s mistress.
Main Cast and Crew:
- Director: Billy Wilder
- Writer: Billy Wilder, I.A.L. Diamond
- Main Actors: Jack Lemmon as C.C. Baxter, Shirley MacLaine as Fran Kubelik, Fred MacMurray as Jeff D. Sheldrake
- Music Director: Adolph Deutsch
- Director of Photography: Joseph LaShelle
- Producers: Billy Wilder, I.A.L. Diamond
Plot:
“The Apartment” follows C.C. Baxter, an ambitious but lonely office worker who allows his married superiors to use his apartment for their extramarital affairs. In exchange, he hopes to climb the corporate ladder. However, complications arise when Baxter falls for Fran Kubelik, an elevator operator at his workplace who is also the mistress of his boss, Jeff D. Sheldrake.
As Baxter’s feelings for Fran deepen, he must navigate the moral dilemma of his actions and confront the consequences of his choices. The film explores themes of loneliness, love, and the compromises people make in pursuit of success. It delves into the complexities of human relationships and the sacrifices individuals are willing to make for their own happiness.
Themes and Motifs:
“The Apartment” explores the theme of loneliness in a bustling city, highlighting the isolation that can exist even in a crowded room. The film also examines the destructive nature of corporate culture, where personal relationships are sacrificed for professional gain. It delves into the complexities of love and the choices individuals make in pursuit of happiness, often at the expense of others.
Wilder employs motifs such as the repetitive use of the apartment setting, symbolizing the cyclical nature of Baxter’s life and the interchangeable nature of his relationships. The film also utilizes dark humor to underscore the absurdity of the characters’ actions and the moral ambiguity of their choices.
Reception and Legacy:
Upon its release in 1960, “The Apartment” was met with critical acclaim and commercial success. It received ten Academy Award nominations and won five, including Best Picture, Best Director for Billy Wilder, and Best Original Screenplay. The film’s exploration of complex themes and its deft blend of comedy and drama resonated with audiences and established it as a classic in American cinema.
“The Apartment” has had a lasting impact on filmmaking, influencing subsequent romantic comedies and dramas. Its exploration of moral dilemmas and the complexities of human relationships continues to resonate with audiences today. The performances by Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine are widely praised, showcasing their versatility and emotional depth.
Recommendation:
“The Apartment” is a timeless classic that combines humor, romance, and social commentary. Billy Wilder’s masterful direction and the outstanding performances by the cast make it a must-watch for fans of classic cinema. The film’s exploration of loneliness, love, and the compromises people make in pursuit of success offers a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant experience.
Memorable Quote:
“I used to live like Robinson Crusoe; I mean, shipwrecked among 8 million people. And then one day I saw a footprint in the sand, and there you were.” – C.C. Baxter (Jack Lemmon)
