SUNSET BOULEVARD is a cinematic treasure. The breathtaking performance by Gloria Swanson in the leading role elevates this engaging melodrama to a truly superior level. The story, riveting and filled to the brim with passion and over-the-top drama, is completely riveting. Violence is the only issue in the film. After Joe tries to walk out on Norma, she attempts suicide by slitting her wrists (offscreen; all we are bandages around her arms). A few fatal shots are fired: a man is shot twice in the back and once in the stomach (it isn't gory) and his body is shown floating in the pool.