Jobey Lassiter

Written by Jobey Lassiter

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

30-facts-about-the-movie-the-apartment
Source: Amazon.com

Released in 1960, The Apartment is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for decades. Directed by the legendary Billy Wilder and starring Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine, this iconic film combines comedy, drama, and romance to create a truly unforgettable cinematic experience. The Apartment follows the story of C.C. Baxter, an ambitious office worker who lends his apartment to his superiors for their extramarital affairs, only to find himself falling for the charming elevator operator, Fran Kubelik. With its witty dialogue, compelling characters, and striking cinematography, The Apartment has earned its place as one of the greatest films of all time.

Key Takeaways:

  • “The Apartment” is a classic film from 1960, exploring themes of loneliness, infidelity, and corporate pressure. It won five Academy Awards and remains a timeless must-watch for movie enthusiasts.
  • Starring Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine, “The Apartment” showcases the evolving dynamics of relationships and the dichotomy of ambition and morality. Its witty dialogue and strong character development make it a cinematic gem.
Table of Contents

The Apartment was released in 1960

The Apartment, directed by Billy Wilder, was released in It is a black comedy that tells the story of a man who lends his apartment to his colleagues for their extramarital affairs.

The movie stars Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine

The talented duo of Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine headline The Apartment. Lemmon plays C.C. Baxter, the main character, while MacLaine portrays Fran Kubelik, a love interest.

It won five Academy Awards

The Apartment was a critical success and won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay.

The film explores themes of loneliness and corporate pressure

The Apartment delves into the dark side of corporate culture, highlighting the pressures and loneliness that individuals can face in such environments.

The movie was inspired by a French play

The Apartment was inspired by a French play titled “Les Fiancés en Herbe” by Francis Veber. Billy Wilder adapted the story for the screen and added his own unique touch.

The iconic theme music was composed by Adolph Deutsch

The Apartment features a memorable theme song that was composed by Adolph Deutsch. The music perfectly captures the mood and essence of the film.

It was one of the first Hollywood films to deal with the topic of infidelity

The Apartment tackled the subject of infidelity in a bold and thought-provoking manner, making it one of the first Hollywood films to explore this topic openly.

The film was a commercial success

The Apartment was not only a critical success but also performed well at the box office. It resonated with audiences and became a hit upon its release.

Billy Wilder’s screenplay is filled with witty dialogue

Billy Wilder, known for his sharp wit, infused The Apartment with clever and comedic dialogue that has become a trademark of his filmmaking style.

The movie showcases the changing dynamics of relationships

The Apartment explores the evolving nature of relationships, highlighting how they can be influenced by societal norms, personal ambition, and emotional vulnerability.

The Apartment was added to the National Film Registry in 1994

In recognition of its cultural significance, The Apartment was added to the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 1994.

The film’s set design is meticulously detailed

The sets in The Apartment are meticulously designed, providing a visually stunning backdrop for the story. The attention to detail enhances the overall viewing experience.

The Apartment was a forerunner of the romantic comedy genre

The Apartment played a significant role in shaping the romantic comedy genre, as it combined elements of romance, comedy, and social commentary in a unique and captivating way.

It was Jack Lemmon’s first leading role

The Apartment marked a turning point in Jack Lemmon’s career, as he took on his first leading role and showcased his exceptional acting abilities.

The movie was controversial upon its release

The subject matter of infidelity and the dark undertones of The Apartment stirred controversy upon its release, but it also sparked important conversations about societal norms.

The film received critical acclaim

The Apartment received widespread critical acclaim, with reviewers praising its exceptional writing, performances, and the way it tackled complex themes with finesse.

The movie’s famous line, “Shut up and deal,” was ad-libbed

One of the most memorable lines in The Apartment, “Shut up and deal,” was actually ad-libbed by Jack Lemmon during filming and has since become an iconic movie quote.

The Apartment explores the dichotomy of ambition and morality

The film delves into the ethical dilemmas faced by the characters, juxtaposing their ambitions with their moral compass and highlighting the sometimes difficult choices they must make.

The Apartment showcases Billy Wilder’s signature storytelling style

Billy Wilder’s directorial style is evident throughout The Apartment, with its sharp writing, impeccable timing, and ability to seamlessly blend comedy and drama.

The movie has a timeless appeal

Despite being released over six decades ago, The Apartment continues to captivate audiences with its compelling story, memorable characters, and timeless themes.

The film highlights the importance of compassion

The Apartment emphasizes the significance of empathy and compassion, encouraging viewers to reflect on how their actions impact the lives of others.

The costumes in The Apartment reflect the fashion of the era

The costume design in The Apartment accurately portrays the fashion trends of the early 1960s, adding an authentic touch to the film’s visual aesthetics.

The movie’s cinematography captures the essence of New York City

The Apartment beautifully captures the vibrancy and allure of New York City through its stunning cinematography, showcasing both its bustling streets and intimate moments.

The film’s editing was done by Daniel Mandell

Daniel Mandell, a renowned film editor, was responsible for the seamless editing of The Apartment, contributing to the film’s overall pacing and coherence.

The Apartment has been praised for its strong character development

The film skillfully develops its characters, allowing viewers to connect with their struggles, motivations, and personal growth throughout the story.

The movie’s success paved the way for future dark comedies

The Apartment’s unique blend of dark comedy and social commentary set a new precedent in filmmaking and influenced the development of future movies in the same genre.

The Apartment’s screenplay is considered one of the greatest in film history

Billy Wilder and his co-writer, I.A.L. Diamond, crafted a screenplay that is often praised as one of the greatest in the history of cinema, with its sharp dialogue and well-developed characters.

The film has a perfect balance of humor and drama

The Apartment strikes a delicate balance between humor and drama, seamlessly transitioning between light-hearted comedic moments and weightier scenes without losing its momentum.

The movie explores the idea of finding love in unexpected places

The Apartment challenges conventional notions of love by portraying the blossoming relationship between two characters who initially seem incompatible but find solace and connection in each other.

The Apartment remains a must-watch for film enthusiasts

Even after all these years, The Apartment continues to be celebrated for its exceptional storytelling, memorable performances, and thought-provoking themes. It is a true cinematic gem.

Conclusion

There you have it, 30 fascinating facts about the movie The Apartment. From its iconic cast to its groundbreaking storyline, this film has left an indelible mark on cinema history. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the world of classic movies, The Apartment is a must-watch for its compelling performances, sharp dialogue, and timeless themes. So grab some popcorn, cozy up on the couch, and prepare to be captivated by this unforgettable cinematic masterpiece.

FAQs

Q: Who directed The Apartment?

A: The Apartment was directed by Billy Wilder.

Q: When was The Apartment released?

A: The movie was released in 1960.

Q: Who starred in The Apartment?

A: The film starred Jack Lemmon, Shirley MacLaine, and Fred MacMurray.

Q: What is the plot of The Apartment?

A: The Apartment follows the story of a man who lets his bosses use his apartment for their extramarital affairs, leading to a complicated love triangle.

Q: Has The Apartment won any awards?

A: Yes, The Apartment won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay.

Q: Is The Apartment considered a classic?

A: Absolutely! The Apartment is widely regarded as a classic film and is often included in lists of the greatest movies of all time.

Q: What themes does The Apartment explore?

A: The movie explores themes of love, loneliness, ambition, and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters.

Q: Is The Apartment suitable for all audiences?

A: The film is rated PG-13 and contains some mature themes and language, so it may not be suitable for young children.

Q: Can I stream The Apartment online?

A: Yes, The Apartment is available for streaming on various platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu.

Q: What sets The Apartment apart from other films of its time?

A: The Apartment was ahead of its time in tackling controversial topics and pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling, making it a groundbreaking film of its era.

If you enjoyed diving into the fascinating world of The Apartment, why not explore more cinematic gems? Discover the charm and wit of the iconic <romantic comedy> It Happened One Night, immerse yourself in the gripping drama of the <classic film> Butterfield 8, or uncover the brilliance of <Billy Wilder's> masterpiece Double Indemnity. Each movie offers a unique and captivating experience that will leave you craving more.

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