Wilder’s Views and Values – what ideas is he exploring? How? Where? What techniques is he using?

Character development:

- What are we learning about the main characters (eg. What is Joe afraid of? How is it shown?)      - - How does Wilder develop their character?

- What are the parallels and connections between characters?

Gender roles:

- How does Wilder challenge traditional roles?

- How does he emasculate Joe?

- How does he empower Betty?

- What comments are being made on love?

Madness and delusion:

What comments is Wilder making about the manifestation of madness and delusion in Hollywood? How does he develop this?

Joe and Norma:

- How does Joe and Norma’s relationship develop?

- What barriers does Joe put up in his own life?

Soundtrack:

How does Wilder use sound to add meaning to his film? Discuss Waxman’s composition.