Joe Gillis (William Holden) is an unsuccessful screenwriter. While evading car repossession agents, he drives into a private garage on Sunset Boulevard. He finds that the house is inhabited by faded silent screen star, Norma Desmond (Gloria Swanson) and her faithful butler, Max (Erich von Stroheim). Since Joe is broke, it’s easy for Norma to convince him to read the script she has been writing for her “comeback”. Joe becomes totally financially dependent on Norma. However, he’s shocked when she announces that she is in love with him. He goes to a friend’s party where he meets Betty Schaefer (Nancy Olson) who encourages him to do his own writing. Joe calls the Desmond residence to say he’s leaving, learns that Norma has tried to commit suicide, and rushes to her side. Norma finishes her script and sends it to Cecil B. DeMille who calls and asks to see her. He wants to use her car, but she thinks he’s interested in her script. Joe starts seeing Betty and falls in love with her. Betty calls, and Norma intercepts the phone call. Joe overhears her sabotaging him to Betty, so he tells her he’s leaving.