The thing about Glenn's voice is that it expresses every emotion when she sings. I can close my eyes and imagine what is happening in that instance. I don't know why people like Elaine Page at all. I don't think she is a very good singer. But I'm sure there is something in her that an American can't understand.
Glenn Close is a fine actress. But she isn't a fine musical actress for one reason: she can't sing. ALW lowered the keys and removed the highest notes and she still can't sing it. Anyone who has listened to her version should find LuPone's or Buckely's version and find out what this song should sound.
I see some say she is no Patti, correct! Glen is a brilliant performer and gives meaning and a sensative performance throughout, Patti sadly cannot. x
i had no idea glenn colse could sing so perfectly until i heard her sunset boulevard songs and of course when she stared in it, i new her as an actress, she is perfect, there is all her acting passion topped off with tip top condition singing, she is a goddess, i hope she returns to a musical (perfiably this one) again, we need true star quality again, all those in favour of this, comment back on this video, it is Glenn close at her best.
Her voice might not be the best. But her acting is superb and makes her not great singing a non-issue, or even appropriate b/c Desmond is a fading star.
Glenn was the perfect choice for this - because, I suspect, Andrew knew of a little seen movie she was in with Mandy Patankin, (?), "Maxie". Glenn has shown that she KNOWS the era of Silent Films, and she embraces it - and it embraces her back. She easily channels Gloria Swanson for this role, just as she channeled Clara Bow in "Maxie". It's a lovely film with some truly heart rending moments - such as the scene where Glenn's "possessed" character asks an old friend - "What happened to you?"
I LOVE Glen as an actress, but honestly I don't know how she lasted 8 shows a week in this role. Her singing has this unsupported, hollow quality that hard to listen to. I'd rather see her in Dangerous Liaisons. Fan-freaking-tastic
Whether or not Glenn Close is the best singer (which she is fucking amazing lol) the best part of this is how she completely embodies the character. She IS Norma Desmond, in every movement and facial expression. The passion behind her singing is what makes this truly spectacular!
I remember I had to stay in my seat for more than half an hour after her stunning performance. This was a real synthesis of talent, voice, performance, charm and nostalgy. My standing ovation for Ms Close!
saw Glenn Close in this play and have heard LuPone and Page and see no reason to compare - they each had their interpretation and quite frankly enjoyed them all
I've never seen Sunset Boulevard, but this is one of my favorite Broadway songs ever. I'm singing it for a recital. I just love the lyrics, and Glenn Close puts so much into them.
i want them to get started before glenn close gets too old. she already is too old really, but she'd still be able to pull off norma now i think. she doesnt look any older now than she did here in 1990.
She amazes me in this part. Her facial expressions, the overblown silent-movie hand gestures...it's amazing! Better than Lupone. I do hope they do a movie of this...I would certainly watch.
I've known that Glenn is an amazing actress, I adore her role of Cruella de Vil in "101 Dalmatians" and "102 Dalmatians"... but I didn't know she was such a good singer.... man, she's great!
I remember thinking that the idea of "Sunset Boulevard" the musical was disgusting. In my opinion there is only one Norma, GLORIA SWANSON, but after seeing Glenn I'm not as disturbed. Glenn Close has the diva thing working for her. She may not be the best singer, but she is a fantastic actress and that makes up for her lack of voice.
I respectfully disagree with those who don't like Close's performance. I remember when I first watched this special. It wasn't long after (of maybe was still?) during Close's run on Broadway. Without ever seeing the show, I thought she was wrong for the part and pissed that my beloved Patti Lupone got boxed out of a promised role. But it only took one viewing of this song to win me over. I'm not saying Glenn is the best singer... but it just seems the perfect marriage between actor and role
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I have tried, and tried, and tried. I lovED Glenn before this fiasco. I have TRIED to be objective. I have tried to hear the good in this. She a one-dimensional cartoon from the first note to the last. Begone, foul beast, begone! (Sorry, I really, really tried.)
Glenn Close is Norma Desmond, start to finish. Norma is a madwoman on the brink, and Glenn plays it to the teeth, wavering intonation and all. Glenn Close can -- and does -- execute perfect intonation in other songs (look up her rendition of send in the clowns, for instance), but if she were to do it with this song it would be out-of-context. Her excellence lies in her ability to stay true to a role.
the more i see this the more i love it . this character is washed up ! she is old. a has been. she is NOT supposed to have a great strong voice. thats not the character !! i saw this live with glenn close in l.a. i was not that into it at first but the more i think of it its perfect casting. her not so great voice adds sympathy to the character. i wonder if this great actress ( glenn ) did some of the weak singing on purpose, she is THAT good you know.
Elaine Paige is a natural singer. Glenn Close is an actor first then a singer. Elaine has a very steady voice when she sings. They're both good but when Glenn sings, I can't help but notice that sort of like an old lady tone to her voice.
because streisand is arrogant enough for the words to be true. she's always fine when theres not much required of her acting-wise. she can only play barbra though, unlike glenn close who can literally play any role...
Nu-uh! See, I can throw childish taunts too. There is absolutely no point to the "who is better" argument. Everyone sees things different ways. If you like LuPone, fine, but don't throw a hissy fit because someone else played the same part.
Of course I saw Paige dear. But she never had the subtlelty of Glennis.
As for Dowes in the Dutch production - terribly miscast ! The producers should be shot - she looks and sounds like Norma's younger sister ! Imberciles !
Glenn Close was terrific as Norma Desmond, and she's the most accomplished actor of all the ones who played this role, but having watched her and Elaine Paige, I prefer Elaine Paige, who is the superior singer. Even Andrew Lloyd Weber commented as such. It's on YouTube, check it out.
I really wish they could work out the rights and movie red tape so they could make a musical motion picture of Sunset Blvd. I would love to see Glenn Close in a new motion picture version.
Glennis will always be considered to be the definitive La Desmond. LuPone was appalling, it is a well known fact. Kathryn Evans, however, is the finest of all to play the role in London !
In my opinion, Glenn is on the weaker end in the vocal department out of all the women who have portrayed Norma. However, I have always thought she was a BRILLIANT actress, ever since I saw 101 Dalamations as a child.
also, if norma was defeated by sound and talking pictures and hates this development, it doesnt make sense for her to have an overly beautiful and powerful voice
Let's remember the Norma Desmond wasn't just an ordinary woman, she was crazy, and lived in her past. She was a silent screen actress, in which every emotion was exaggerated. I think that Glenn really brings that across, the wide eyes, the huge facial expressions. I think she is playing the part perfectly. It makes you believe that her character is insane, and not letting go of her past "glory" days. That said I've never been a big fan of Patti Lupone's voice so I am a little biased.
oh and for those of you saying that Glenn Close is overacting, she's just being really big and theatrical for the audience because she has to play all the way to the back of the hosue. it looks realy silly on camera up close, but she's remembering the audience in the back of the audience who also paid good moeny to see the show
no, its because she is portraying someone who is insane, over the top, and theatrical, forget what you just said, it really damages an actor, im still fixing it in myself
i think everyone sings this song differently and it doesn't matter who sings it best. all the famous women who've sung this song have sung it in their own unique way in the best way they believe they can. I think it's great to have variety and we can listen to whichever woman we like best, but i'm just glad to see that all the women who sing this sing well, no matter who's best. at least they're all trained and passionate.
I did not mean to vote that comment down, so sorry! Accidental slip of the mouse. I absolutely agree with what you said: everyone does it differently and that's what makes it wonderful.
Well, I've looked at all of three actresses... If not Glenn,I'd like to see Betty, Patti...i don't know, she doesn't seem to me like the right Norma..but Glenn has really the best prper theatrical way of performing and deep voice, which is better for strict,posh Norma....
But - I know whis is a musical...but who can reach Gloria's Norma?
Patti LuPone, who originated the role, IS the only Norma that will ever do justice to this show. If they make the movie musical, it would be poetic justic for Patti to do the film and then be awarded the Oscar for it. And a lot of people would finally forgive ALW.
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I actually think that ALW doesn't deserve to have Patti make the film. After the way he treated her! What the hell were these people thinking picking Glenn Close over Patti.... WTF?!?!
I am a huge fan of Glenn, Patti LuPone and Betty Buckley. I saw Betty Buckley in Sunset Boulevard. She was brilliant. But I think Glenn is also. Each of the women brought something different and memorable to the role.
A robot could sing with more authentic emotions than the overrated Patti LuPone, who indeed has a lovely voice. However, Close's performance is laden with subtle emotional nuances which transcend it to something quite remarkable.
I absolutely LOVE Gelnn Close, but unfortunately she has no true singing voice and will never do justice to the role of Norma Desmond as Patti Lupone did. Sorry, but I have to give Glenn an epic fail on this one as many of the critics did when she hit broadway.
Patti Lupone? I mean Patti Lupone is good is a few things, but not as Norma Desmond. Glenn's acting was great in this and awarded with a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award. I really like Elaine Page's Norma though. Now SHE can sing.
Simply amazing, she takes on this silent screen starlet with so much dynamic, even if you turned the sound off you could still understand what she was saying but watching her eyes.
OMG! Glenn is AMAZING in this! I adore Patti..but this role was more suited for Glenn. She is more intense, regal, mature and kind of insane. WILD footage!
I never knew Glenn Close could sing before I saw this - how wrong I was and how little I knew what a fabulous voice she has, and STILL has at her age. A beautiful song, so perfectly suited to her.
She's no Patti - and that's a GOOD thing! Glenn Close got through these bigs songs by acting them, and it worked. To see her descend that grand staircase, making one arresting entrance after another, was a theatrical wonder I'll never forget... Patti Lupone would have been too short to even be seen over the bannister. Hardly the makings of a grand-diva moment, at least in this musical.
Actually, she's 61. But still - HALLE BERRY? OK like not to be mean but she's only good in role's that require her showing a lot of skin. She's not cut out for Norma! Get Glenn back! And Will Smith? Why?
Oh, you poor baby. We actually saw her play this role, and I am genuinely sorry that you did not if you enjoyed this clip so much. To say she blew us away would be putting it mildly. It was a transcendal experience. That was about 15 years ago and my spouse and I still agree that her performance was the most amazing thing we've ever seen performed live.
The thing about Glenn's voice is that it expresses every emotion when she sings. I can close my eyes and imagine what is happening in that instance. I don't know why people like Elaine Page at all. I don't think she is a very good singer. But I'm sure there is something in her that an American can't understand.
ReallyGayMusic 6 days ago
Glenn Close is a fine actress. But she isn't a fine musical actress for one reason: she can't sing. ALW lowered the keys and removed the highest notes and she still can't sing it. Anyone who has listened to her version should find LuPone's or Buckely's version and find out what this song should sound.
lostinthestars100 1 week ago
this is amazing.totally
AnnLavigne92 2 weeks ago
she stole the show with that song
brijii 1 month ago
Glenn Close is a beast.
ensemble10 1 month ago
With one look I can break your heart...and steal your puppies.
Evilgidgit4Ever 2 months ago 3
I agree. On the high notes she changes to falsetto
Handiman544 2 months ago
ugh! Patti LuPone is sooooo much better! Screw you ALW!!!!
jubie72895 2 months ago
I see some say she is no Patti, correct! Glen is a brilliant performer and gives meaning and a sensative performance throughout, Patti sadly cannot. x
JVT1010 3 months ago
Glen can act but does not have the singing range for this role
balloonescape 3 months ago
Would this make a good song for Dolphin Tale?
puterboy1 3 months ago
Dramatic.
bmh4d0k3n 3 months ago
shes amazing!!! the best Norma Desmond EVER! very dramatic on every word, I was drawn to her when I saw her performance in NYC!
TheGrAndJurOr 5 months ago 2
The story goes that when Gloria Swanson arrived at costuming for her role as Nora Desmond she brought her own jewelry for the role.
Writer6608 5 months ago
@Writer6608 Swanson should have won that Best Actress Oscar. She played the role to perfection.
marcosvalenca 2 months ago
she is sooooooooo fantastic i am in love with her!
trulybelievenn2011 6 months ago
I love that robe she has on!!!! WOW who knew Cruella could sing! LOL!
maleficentdiva 7 months ago
Best norma desmond of them all...not the best singer compared to patti or betty, but best acting
mds1978 8 months ago 3
@mds1978 I thought she sang great!
maleficentdiva 7 months ago
@mds1978
by far! I love patti and betty.... but glenn really ACTS the part!
ZelphKinderhook 6 months ago
I can believe her every word she is singing. I love it!
Zsofica 8 months ago 3
BRILLIANT.
goodyougetastar 9 months ago 2
@phmike69 Don't forget Mona Simpson (Homer's mom!)
lordalessan 9 months ago
Can Glenn Close do anything wrong-?-Thanks for posting!-
FRANKHODGES39 10 months ago 8
Happy birthday Glenn you are fab
mccasper6068 10 months ago
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i had no idea glenn colse could sing so perfectly until i heard her sunset boulevard songs and of course when she stared in it, i new her as an actress, she is perfect, there is all her acting passion topped off with tip top condition singing, she is a goddess, i hope she returns to a musical (perfiably this one) again, we need true star quality again, all those in favour of this, comment back on this video, it is Glenn close at her best.
Great Video. :) :)
matthewparsons1996 1 year ago
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matthewparsons1996 1 year ago
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matthewparsons1996 1 year ago
she is just suck a great performer!
alfie4472 1 year ago
she's so magnificent... wow. i've never heard her sing before.
SarahDe93 1 year ago
“I Can Play ANY Role…”. She sings that with such defiance, she’s almost snarling. I love it.
avesraggiana 1 year ago
Her voice might not be the best. But her acting is superb and makes her not great singing a non-issue, or even appropriate b/c Desmond is a fading star.
heavyblow 1 year ago 2
Glenn was the perfect choice for this - because, I suspect, Andrew knew of a little seen movie she was in with Mandy Patankin, (?), "Maxie". Glenn has shown that she KNOWS the era of Silent Films, and she embraces it - and it embraces her back. She easily channels Gloria Swanson for this role, just as she channeled Clara Bow in "Maxie". It's a lovely film with some truly heart rending moments - such as the scene where Glenn's "possessed" character asks an old friend - "What happened to you?"
paulakaye5 1 year ago
simply... great! it gives me goosebumps every time...
BigA3372 1 year ago
Marvellous! I love it!!
rutakirea 1 year ago
GLEN OWNS THIS PERIOD!!!
chaksheba 1 year ago
Wow! She is just incredible at everything she does!!!!!!! Gave me Goosebumps!!!!!
1cjanicec 1 year ago
An icon in an iconic role, very rare to see a true master in this genre,musical theatre i mean. Genius casting!
ribbaable 1 year ago
I think her voice is great. Perfect in fact for musical theatre
lordshenley 1 year ago
I LOVE Glen as an actress, but honestly I don't know how she lasted 8 shows a week in this role. Her singing has this unsupported, hollow quality that hard to listen to. I'd rather see her in Dangerous Liaisons. Fan-freaking-tastic
lcowles 1 year ago
@lcowles Well, aren't you just the perfect little theatre critic. I think your head has a hollow quality.
yuccasinger2 1 year ago
@lcowles You obviously are thinking too hard LOL. It is not just about singing.
Saffron49 1 year ago
Glen Close is incredible in this role. What a commanding stage presence and her voice is amazing! I feel gifted watching and hearing her.
potlemac 1 year ago
Looks, talent and brains. Glenn, you were born to be famous.
Houdini774 1 year ago
The key change is amazing!
clevm002 1 year ago
Her acting is convincing and amazingly captivating...truly a 5 star performance.
CoolMapleStore 1 year ago 2
Wow! I didn't know Glenn close could sing! She has an absolutely beautiful voice!
amidthephantomsrose 1 year ago 2
Love the costume, the movement, the voice...heck, love the lipstick. Every little thing just makes this performance rock.
cloudboheme 1 year ago 3
Whether or not Glenn Close is the best singer (which she is fucking amazing lol) the best part of this is how she completely embodies the character. She IS Norma Desmond, in every movement and facial expression. The passion behind her singing is what makes this truly spectacular!
TheTaylorOrwick791 1 year ago 3
Norma Desmond, Gloria Swanson can't hold a candle to Glenn Close. A 21st Century Renaissance woman. What a talent!
patinsrq 1 year ago 2
Glenn Close is so intense in this. Her whole being is in this whole piece. I love it.
beatrixpendragon 1 year ago 2
I remember I had to stay in my seat for more than half an hour after her stunning performance. This was a real synthesis of talent, voice, performance, charm and nostalgy. My standing ovation for Ms Close!
enfava 1 year ago
saw Glenn Close in this play and have heard LuPone and Page and see no reason to compare - they each had their interpretation and quite frankly enjoyed them all
mpg4444 1 year ago 2
Patti who?
traod8 1 year ago
Glen Close sings this song the Best
plawater 1 year ago 5
Glenn Close is such a badass.
EvilgidgitReturns 1 year ago 5
She looks like a witch with this long robe on, BUT I LOVE THE COSTUME! and her voice is GREAT!
maleficentdiva 2 years ago 3
I've never seen Sunset Boulevard, but this is one of my favorite Broadway songs ever. I'm singing it for a recital. I just love the lyrics, and Glenn Close puts so much into them.
ShoshanaSky 2 years ago 4
i see alittle bit of Cruella in this performance =) I LOVE THIS!!
darreyl102 2 years ago 30
OMG she is REALLY amazing!!!
Love it !!!
Why on earth didnt I go see it ???
kateway55 2 years ago 4
Encore! Encore! Glenn Close is AMAZING!!!!
judy785 2 years ago 2
when i saw this stage show, petula clark played nora desmond. although she was wonderful in the role, there's noone who can compare to glenn close.
vtweeyore 2 years ago 3
1. It's "Norma."
2. Petula sucked ass.
emlodik 2 years ago 3
Please let them bring it to the screen in 2010. It's way overdue for a thinking public to have a great musical
jessied44 2 years ago 2
i want them to get started before glenn close gets too old. she already is too old really, but she'd still be able to pull off norma now i think. she doesnt look any older now than she did here in 1990.
CocaineHabbit 2 years ago
speaking of this from a performance point of veiw i would go as far as to say that it is better than barbras perfromance
x
PETEYHEYHEYHEY 2 years ago 2
Glenn Close......a great actress and a breathtaking singer !
What a joy !
Shimathe 2 years ago
She amazes me in this part. Her facial expressions, the overblown silent-movie hand gestures...it's amazing! Better than Lupone. I do hope they do a movie of this...I would certainly watch.
cyranothe2nd 2 years ago
I've known that Glenn is an amazing actress, I adore her role of Cruella de Vil in "101 Dalmatians" and "102 Dalmatians"... but I didn't know she was such a good singer.... man, she's great!
AlejandroChaban 2 years ago 3
Glenn Close is amazing and she can play almost any role, and sing aswell - how cool's that! She's my favourite american actress!
Happydays123able 2 years ago
One of my favorite musicals!!!!
superb performance
myfavoritemelody 2 years ago
Glenn definitely gets the eyes right! Almost as amazingly creepy as Gloria Swanson. She has the overacting, silent film thing down! Fantastic!
nareyaword 2 years ago 4
when is she making the film?
mickstery6 2 years ago
3 super stars
Gloria Swanson Eric Von Stroheim and William Holden.
And... Bilie Wilder
illfurter 2 years ago
I remember thinking that the idea of "Sunset Boulevard" the musical was disgusting. In my opinion there is only one Norma, GLORIA SWANSON, but after seeing Glenn I'm not as disturbed. Glenn Close has the diva thing working for her. She may not be the best singer, but she is a fantastic actress and that makes up for her lack of voice.
mothersgrave 2 years ago 3
Everyone else's comments have already expressed what I feel when I watch this. A moving and beautiful performance this was.
Akuchan7 2 years ago 2
She's a singing actress, not an acting singer. She does a brilliant job!
babycatcher2004 2 years ago 3
I did not know she could also sing
less01 2 years ago
An absolutely stunning performance, one to be very proud of.
davidjp26 2 years ago 4
i LOVE this character and think that glenn close did a great job and i think that the WONDERFUL gloria swanson would be proud of her !!
cristoforoantonio 2 years ago 2
Another interpretation is by "Helen Schneider - Nur ein Blick" very expressive
She sings exactly what I feel at the moment where she sings, it is perfectly
01synergist 2 years ago
I respectfully disagree with those who don't like Close's performance. I remember when I first watched this special. It wasn't long after (of maybe was still?) during Close's run on Broadway. Without ever seeing the show, I thought she was wrong for the part and pissed that my beloved Patti Lupone got boxed out of a promised role. But it only took one viewing of this song to win me over. I'm not saying Glenn is the best singer... but it just seems the perfect marriage between actor and role
daverupel 2 years ago 4
simone kleinsma end pia douwes are much better!!!!!!!!!!
knuffelbeer96 2 years ago
Not better. Different. And Simone is excellent. Pia... I love her, but it's just isn't her role.
emlodik 2 years ago 3
This comment has received too many negative votes show
I have tried, and tried, and tried. I lovED Glenn before this fiasco. I have TRIED to be objective. I have tried to hear the good in this. She a one-dimensional cartoon from the first note to the last. Begone, foul beast, begone! (Sorry, I really, really tried.)
fanadiana 2 years ago
what fiasco?
tenorant 2 years ago
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Shut the hell up, you stupid bitch.
emlodik 2 years ago
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emlodik 2 years ago
Glenn Close is Norma Desmond, start to finish. Norma is a madwoman on the brink, and Glenn plays it to the teeth, wavering intonation and all. Glenn Close can -- and does -- execute perfect intonation in other songs (look up her rendition of send in the clowns, for instance), but if she were to do it with this song it would be out-of-context. Her excellence lies in her ability to stay true to a role.
fluidstatic 2 years ago
She is a so marvelous singer, their is correct is wonderful, and she is a mad actress!
It is so beautiful!
I love Glen Close!!!
WolligesHangschaf 2 years ago
the more i see this the more i love it . this character is washed up ! she is old. a has been. she is NOT supposed to have a great strong voice. thats not the character !! i saw this live with glenn close in l.a. i was not that into it at first but the more i think of it its perfect casting. her not so great voice adds sympathy to the character. i wonder if this great actress ( glenn ) did some of the weak singing on purpose, she is THAT good you know.
himsyambrose 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
What a horrible song - the exact definition of truly untalented drivel. poor Glenn Close ..
musicman43 2 years ago
Elaine Paige is a natural singer. Glenn Close is an actor first then a singer. Elaine has a very steady voice when she sings. They're both good but when Glenn sings, I can't help but notice that sort of like an old lady tone to her voice.
acuison1 2 years ago 2
which is perfect for Norma Desmond :)
blondemax 2 years ago
Wonderfull Glen Close!
hilbr1 2 years ago 4
Beautiful voice and very good interpretatioin!!! But Streisand gives this song something more...
simammo 2 years ago
because streisand is arrogant enough for the words to be true. she's always fine when theres not much required of her acting-wise. she can only play barbra though, unlike glenn close who can literally play any role...
CocaineHabbit 2 years ago
Gotta love her whe she says "I can play any role"... :)
mattji83 2 years ago
Patti was by far the BEST
ashleylupone 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Shut the hell up, you stupid bitch.
emlodik 2 years ago
@ashleylupone
Nu-uh! See, I can throw childish taunts too. There is absolutely no point to the "who is better" argument. Everyone sees things different ways. If you like LuPone, fine, but don't throw a hissy fit because someone else played the same part.
traod8 1 year ago
Great performance.. saw the dutch version tonight with Simone Kleinsma.
bertje030 2 years ago
it was ashame what she did with them puppys
johnnyrottenwigan 2 years ago
Of course I saw Paige dear. But she never had the subtlelty of Glennis.
As for Dowes in the Dutch production - terribly miscast ! The producers should be shot - she looks and sounds like Norma's younger sister ! Imberciles !
fellatio24 2 years ago
Glenn Close was terrific as Norma Desmond, and she's the most accomplished actor of all the ones who played this role, but having watched her and Elaine Paige, I prefer Elaine Paige, who is the superior singer. Even Andrew Lloyd Weber commented as such. It's on YouTube, check it out.
HipNip2008 2 years ago
Wonderfull Glen Close!
You can play any role!
WolligesHangschaf 2 years ago 2
Pia is much better :) But she isn´t bad and I like tohear it in english!
Anginaja 2 years ago
I really wish they could work out the rights and movie red tape so they could make a musical motion picture of Sunset Blvd. I would love to see Glenn Close in a new motion picture version.
littlefuzz4 2 years ago
Glennis will always be considered to be the definitive La Desmond. LuPone was appalling, it is a well known fact. Kathryn Evans, however, is the finest of all to play the role in London !
fellatio24 2 years ago 2
You never saw Elaine Paige, I can see.
HipNip2008 2 years ago
I love Glenn Close! truly amazing at this role.
Tris092 2 years ago 2
I only heard Diahnn Carrol sing this. But this is really fantastic!
pursehappygal 2 years ago
In my opinion, Glenn is on the weaker end in the vocal department out of all the women who have portrayed Norma. However, I have always thought she was a BRILLIANT actress, ever since I saw 101 Dalamations as a child.
kylejb 2 years ago
also, if norma was defeated by sound and talking pictures and hates this development, it doesnt make sense for her to have an overly beautiful and powerful voice
Asylum07MasterMadman 2 years ago
hon e grym
ivegotstripes 2 years ago
WOW ! An actress of great quality who can also really sing !
Outstanding !
rw
888raymeo 2 years ago
Have yo heard Kathryn Evans sing this? its the best,brilliant
rochesterpete 2 years ago
Let's remember the Norma Desmond wasn't just an ordinary woman, she was crazy, and lived in her past. She was a silent screen actress, in which every emotion was exaggerated. I think that Glenn really brings that across, the wide eyes, the huge facial expressions. I think she is playing the part perfectly. It makes you believe that her character is insane, and not letting go of her past "glory" days. That said I've never been a big fan of Patti Lupone's voice so I am a little biased.
carolinaboy4 2 years ago 4
oh and for those of you saying that Glenn Close is overacting, she's just being really big and theatrical for the audience because she has to play all the way to the back of the hosue. it looks realy silly on camera up close, but she's remembering the audience in the back of the audience who also paid good moeny to see the show
dcnut1234 2 years ago 2
yep and i'm sure they all wanted their money back.
ilovepattilupone 2 years ago
don't be jealous.
dcnut1234 2 years ago
umm... of what?
ilovepattilupone 2 years ago
no, its because she is portraying someone who is insane, over the top, and theatrical, forget what you just said, it really damages an actor, im still fixing it in myself
Asylum07MasterMadman 2 years ago
i think everyone sings this song differently and it doesn't matter who sings it best. all the famous women who've sung this song have sung it in their own unique way in the best way they believe they can. I think it's great to have variety and we can listen to whichever woman we like best, but i'm just glad to see that all the women who sing this sing well, no matter who's best. at least they're all trained and passionate.
dcnut1234 2 years ago
@dcnut1234
I did not mean to vote that comment down, so sorry! Accidental slip of the mouse. I absolutely agree with what you said: everyone does it differently and that's what makes it wonderful.
traod8 1 year ago
Well, I've looked at all of three actresses... If not Glenn,I'd like to see Betty, Patti...i don't know, she doesn't seem to me like the right Norma..but Glenn has really the best prper theatrical way of performing and deep voice, which is better for strict,posh Norma....
But - I know whis is a musical...but who can reach Gloria's Norma?
Etheline 2 years ago
Patti LuPone, who originated the role, IS the only Norma that will ever do justice to this show. If they make the movie musical, it would be poetic justic for Patti to do the film and then be awarded the Oscar for it. And a lot of people would finally forgive ALW.
gmoy15245 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
I actually think that ALW doesn't deserve to have Patti make the film. After the way he treated her! What the hell were these people thinking picking Glenn Close over Patti.... WTF?!?!
ilovepattilupone 2 years ago
Will be true... they never choose musicalstars to do movies... but glenn will be the best choice anyway
theHobbes2 2 years ago 2
When I was a little kid, I used to practice singing this along with Glenn Close--It really helped me develop my lungs!
polychrmtcbttfly 2 years ago
Glenn Close will get the lead when Hollywood turns this into a musical --scheduled for 2010. You heard it here FIRST !
wtwcaliber 2 years ago
Tchaaaa..... It's just a rumour.
HouseOnSunset 2 years ago
I heard that Cilla Black was hot favourite
teecee1941 2 years ago
O we hear som,ething in a comment at youtube... sure to believe it -.-'
Yokiperzik2 2 years ago
I am a huge fan of Glenn, Patti LuPone and Betty Buckley. I saw Betty Buckley in Sunset Boulevard. She was brilliant. But I think Glenn is also. Each of the women brought something different and memorable to the role.
themonaghans 2 years ago 2
Glenn Close is amazing, she should do the film musical!!!
kenn09876 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Patti IS Norma, Glen doesn't put any emotion into this and her voice is nothing compared to Patti's.
Broadway3 2 years ago
No emotion? No emotion?! It's Glenn Close! That would be like saying that Godiva makes Dollar Store chocolate bars.
Mosaleah 2 years ago 3
I agree with Broadway3 about the voice, and Close overexcaggerates, but Patti has REAL emotions.
broadwaybeat 2 years ago
A robot could sing with more authentic emotions than the overrated Patti LuPone, who indeed has a lovely voice. However, Close's performance is laden with subtle emotional nuances which transcend it to something quite remarkable.
josparno 2 years ago
That is so true. Glenn rocks.
polychrmtcbttfly 2 years ago
I absolutely LOVE Gelnn Close, but unfortunately she has no true singing voice and will never do justice to the role of Norma Desmond as Patti Lupone did. Sorry, but I have to give Glenn an epic fail on this one as many of the critics did when she hit broadway.
CrudelyAnimated 3 years ago
Patti Lupone? I mean Patti Lupone is good is a few things, but not as Norma Desmond. Glenn's acting was great in this and awarded with a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award. I really like Elaine Page's Norma though. Now SHE can sing.
Mario54World 3 years ago
Simply amazing, she takes on this silent screen starlet with so much dynamic, even if you turned the sound off you could still understand what she was saying but watching her eyes.
Rugger0430 3 years ago
Such a talented lady...acting, singing, wow!
rarnayro 3 years ago 3
At 00:46 she just pops that Norma look like no one else could. Glenn has a historic Hollywood feeling that the role demanded.
MediaPointEnt 3 years ago 3
OMG! Glenn is AMAZING in this! I adore Patti..but this role was more suited for Glenn. She is more intense, regal, mature and kind of insane. WILD footage!
MediaPointEnt 3 years ago 3
WOW!!
scoxander91 3 years ago 2
I'm singing this song for my audition. Glenn Close did a wonderful job as Norma!
huntress1863 3 years ago 3
I never knew Glenn Close could sing before I saw this - how wrong I was and how little I knew what a fabulous voice she has, and STILL has at her age. A beautiful song, so perfectly suited to her.
Kimberleg 3 years ago
She's no Patti - and that's a GOOD thing! Glenn Close got through these bigs songs by acting them, and it worked. To see her descend that grand staircase, making one arresting entrance after another, was a theatrical wonder I'll never forget... Patti Lupone would have been too short to even be seen over the bannister. Hardly the makings of a grand-diva moment, at least in this musical.
avesraggiana 3 years ago 3
she's no patti
ILiveForLaguna 3 years ago
Thank god. Some of us like a bit of subtlety.
AdArmand 3 years ago
She sang ages ago in Barnum, so she knows what she's doing
marideputti 3 years ago
blimey Glen Close singing? she's bloody good
hobbily 3 years ago 4
perfection and very moving.
smhig 3 years ago 3
Bloody hell, what a set of lungs!
stparamedic86 3 years ago 10
The movie's coming out next year, can't wait!
BUT does anyone know who's getting Norma and Joe?
bohemiawelcumsyou 3 years ago
Norma will be played by Halle Berry with Will Smith as Joe. So typical in hollywood--given there were no superstar black slient film stars--go figure.
I think Glenn Close should reprise the role---its supposed to be a woman in her 50`s--is`nt Glenn?
jackeats7 3 years ago
Actually, she's 61. But still - HALLE BERRY? OK like not to be mean but she's only good in role's that require her showing a lot of skin. She's not cut out for Norma! Get Glenn back! And Will Smith? Why?
bohemiawelcumsyou 3 years ago 4
Absolutely incredible!! Such a powerful performance. Glen Close is amazing.
nazimivah8 3 years ago 2
She gives such a performance-crazed,tragic,moving,hopeful-all in one song.
newrochellephoenix 3 years ago
i agree. I was also mesmerized by her performance here. The best I've seen IMO in this tribute/concert for Andrew Lloyd Weber.
Milliardo5 3 years ago 2
i went to see this production really pissed that lupone didn't get to bring it to ny. hate to admit it, but glenn close was
great though i still wish i had seen lupone here or in london.
i think they rewrote it somewhat and lupone could've done
it great. also saw elaine page who was also great, a better voice, and not so bizarre. are they really doing a movie?
mzmiller52 3 years ago
yes Sunset Boulevard the musical is being made into a movie coming out in 2010 in 2009 jekel and hide is coming out
redeye007 3 years ago
A tour de force.
mikeyirish1967 3 years ago
cant wait to see her in the film!
mickstery6 3 years ago
God she IS Norma Desmond.
MainManAndy 3 years ago 2
She's unbelievable. Her facial expressions and her voice are so powerful. I absolutely love Glenn's performance with this song. Beautiful.
da3a9adu 3 years ago 5
i liked her singing this song so much.
Colour4sphere 3 years ago
voce , espressione, interpretazione, musica , tutto stupendo.... superlativo!!!
REIKI65 3 years ago
wonderful, wonderful!!!
pizzorno 4 years ago 2
I had no idea Glenn Close could even sing until I watched this video. She BLEW ME AWAY!! I can't imagine anyone else playing this role.
KINGDOMoftheORION 4 years ago 2
She also sang the role of Charity in Barnum, with John Dale, a long while ago, but I prefer Patti LuPone for Norma Desmond (as a singer)
marideputti 4 years ago
Oh, you poor baby. We actually saw her play this role, and I am genuinely sorry that you did not if you enjoyed this clip so much. To say she blew us away would be putting it mildly. It was a transcendal experience. That was about 15 years ago and my spouse and I still agree that her performance was the most amazing thing we've ever seen performed live.
sweetiebunniepie 3 years ago
The best Norma out of them all
positivityforever 4 years ago 2
She IS Norma Desmond in this video! Just lovely
artist0477 4 years ago 2