A coincidence is “a striking occurrence of two or more events at one time apparently by mere chance.” When a coincidence makes things easier for the protagonist, the viewer will not be satisfied, but when a coincidence creates problems for the protagonist, the viewer will be engaged. In Billy Wilder’s Sunset Boulevard, two coincidences increase the suspense in the film and have negative consequences for the protagonist.
Joe Gillis (William Holden) has something he doesn’t want to lose: his car, which two debt collectors want to repossess. The first coincidence occurs when Joe is driving his car and “just happens” to see the debt collectors at a stop sign. A chase ensues, and the coincidence becomes bad luck for Joe. If the debt collectors catch him, he will lose his car.
The second coincidence occurs when Joe blows a tire and pulls into the driveway of a mansion on Sunset Boulevard. Blowing a tire at this exact moment appears to be good luck for Joe. He finds a garage where he can hide his car from the debt collectors. However, this chance event brings Joe into contact with the main antagonist—Norma Desmond (Gloria Swanson). Joe’s good luck turns out to be bad luck. He has entered the house of the woman who will murder him.
Christopher John Lindsay 