Themes in Existentialism

Paper Summary:

The first part of this paper examines Ingmar Bergman's film "The Seventh Seal" and how it addresses the theme of existentialism in its contemplation of whether God truly exists. The second part looks at Billy Wilder's film "Sunset Boulevard" and how it uses the theme of existentialism regarding choices and limits. Finally, this paper looks at Woody Allen's film "Shadows and Fog" and it' use of existentialism is an allegory for the search for meaning and it theme of existentialism in the search for the meaning of life.

From the Paper:

"Billy Wilder's 'film, "Sunset Boulevard"' tells the story of a forgotten movie star, Norma Desmond, who lives in a huge mansion, reminiscing about the past and dreaming of a comeback. Norma is a dramatic character with theatrical expressions and illusions of grandeur. She is involved in a relationship with Joe Gillis, a writer who is half her age and allows himself to be kept by her. In addition, she has a strange relationship with her butler, Max, who was once a great silent film director and was married at one time to Norma, as well. "

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