Billy Wilder Speaks

Billy Wilder, the Oscar-winning director of such classics as Double Indemnity, Sunset Boulevard, and Some Like It Hot was also one of Hollywood's most engaging raconteurs, and he takes center stage—figuratively speaking—in this very entertaining compilation of interviews conducted by German filmmaker Volker Schlöndorff (The Tin Drum). Weighing in at just over 70 minutes, Billy Wilder Speaks finds the legendary auteur recounting the stories behind his greatest achievements, while just as candidly addressing his occasional failures. Wilder's insights on the craft of moviemaking are particularly interesting, and his anecdotes are peppered with snappy Rodney Dangerfield-worthy lines. Nostalgia-minded viewers will enjoy his reminiscences down memory lane, while serious students of film will relish the wealth of Hollywood wisdom Wilder presents in his inimitable fashion. DVD extras include 70 minutes of additional interview footage and on-camera commentary by Schlöndorff, a gallery of trailers for Wilder films, a Wilder filmography, and a “making-of” essay by Schlöndorff. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (E. Hulse)