Character Relationship Map: Sunset Boulevard

Characters

• Joe Gillis (played by William Holden) — protagonist

  A struggling screenwriter who narrates the film's flashback. After fleeing repo men, he takes a job as a script doctor for forgotten silent star Norma Desmond. He becomes her live-in companion and gig...

• Norma Desmond (played by Gloria Swanson) — protagonist

  A delusional, forgotten silent film star who lives in isolation, convinced she will make a triumphant comeback. She hires Joe Gillis as a script doctor and companion, becoming obsessively attached to...

• Betty Schaefer (played by Nancy Olson) — supporting

  A sharp Paramount Pictures script reader who initially critiques Joe Gillis's work. She later reconnects with him, recognizes his talent, and falls in love with him. Joe uses her as an escape from Nor...

• Cecil B. DeMille (played by Cecil B. DeMille) — supporting
• Artie Green (played by Jack Webb) — supporting

  Joe Gillis's friend who works at Paramount. Joe visits him early in the story and later pretends to be content with his gigolo lifestyle to encourage Betty Schaefer to pursue a relationship with Artie...

Key Relationships

• Norma Desmond → Cecil B. DeMille (Professional Former Star)
• Norma Desmond → Betty Schaefer (Conflict Rival)
• Joe Gillis → Cecil B. DeMille (Professional Industry Veteran)
• Joe Gillis → Artie Green (Social Friend)
• Joe Gillis → Betty Schaefer (Professional Collaborator)
• Joe Gillis → Norma Desmond (Professional Employer)

Story Analysis

A tragic exploration of Hollywood's fleeting fame, delusion, and the destructive power of unchecked nostalgia.

Plot Progression

1. Descent and Discovery
2. Dependency and Delusion
3. Secret Romance and Revelation
4. Betrayal and Tragic End