Meet the Cast of The Apartment

Released on June 21, 1960
Comedy Drama Romance

The Apartment, directed by Billy Wilder and released in 1960, is a classic film that explores the cutthroat world of corporate America in the late 1950s. The protagonist of the story is Bud Baxter, a minor clerk in a massive New York insurance company, who is eager to climb up the corporate ladder. However, Bud soon realizes that his path to success is not going to be easy, and he stumbles upon a unique and unconventional way to gain favor with the executives in his company.

Bud discovers that he can lend out his apartment to the company's executives, who are more than happy to use his place as a rendezvous for their extramarital affairs. Although this arrangement allows Bud to gain some brownie points with the higher-ups, it also means that he often has to deal with the aftermath of their visits. From cleaning up the mess left behind by these executives and their mistresses to ensuring that he has a place to sleep at night, Bud's life becomes increasingly complicated.

One night, Bud's plan to use his apartment for his own romantic encounter is foiled when he finds out that one of the executives, Mr. Sheldrake, has already made plans to use his apartment to meet with his mistress. To make matters worse, the mistress who shows up at Bud's apartment is none other than Fran Kubelik, the elevator operator whom Bud has been secretly in love with for quite some time. In a twist of events, Bud is left with a major problem to solve, and the audience is left wondering whether Bud will make the right choice and stand up for himself, or continue to be a pawn in the cutthroat world of corporate America.

Overall, The Apartment is a thought-provoking and entertaining film that offers a glimpse into the world of corporate America in the late 1950s. With its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and engaging plot, this movie is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys classic films. Whether you're a fan of Billy Wilder's work or simply looking for a great movie to watch, The Apartment is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Full Cast of The Apartment

Jack Lemmon

as C.C. Baxter

Jack Lemmon's performance as C.C. Baxter in 'The Apartment' is a masterclass in comedic timing and dramatic nuance. His portrayal of the ambitious, yet ultimately moral, insurance clerk is both endearing and hilarious. Lemmon's ability to switch between slapstick humor and heartfelt emotion is truly impressive, making Baxter a character that the audience can't help but root for. His chemistry with co-star Shirley MacLaine is also noteworthy, as their on-screen romance is both believable and touching. Overall, Lemmon's performance in 'The Apartment' is a testament to his talent as an actor and a highlight of his illustrious career.

Shirley MacLaine

as Fran Kubelik

In 'The Apartment', Shirley MacLaine delivers a nuanced and captivating performance as Fran Kubelik, an elevator operator who becomes entangled in a complicated love triangle. MacLaine expertly balances Fran's vulnerability and strength, making her character both relatable and endearing. Her portrayal of Fran's heartbreak and resilience is particularly noteworthy, as she navigates the complexities of her relationships with Jack Lemmon's C.C. Baxter and Fred MacMurray's Jeff Sheldrake. Overall, MacLaine's performance is a standout in this classic film, showcasing her incredible talent and range as an actress.

Fred MacMurray

as Jeff D. Sheldrake

Fred MacMurray delivers a captivating performance as the ambitious and unscrupulous executive, Jeff D. Sheldrake, in the movie 'The Apartment'. MacMurray masterfully portrays Sheldrake's ruthless pursuit of power and his callous treatment of those around him, particularly his mistress, Fran Kubelik. The actor's ability to convey Sheldrake's charisma and cunning, while also revealing his underlying vulnerability and insecurity, creates a complex and compelling character that is both fascinating and repulsive. MacMurray's performance is a standout in a film filled with memorable characters and is a testament to his talent as an actor.

Ray Walston

as Joe Dobisch

Ray Walston delivers a standout performance as Joe Dobisch in 'The Apartment', a film that expertly balances comedy and drama. Walston's portrayal of the cunning and manipulative Dobisch, a senior executive at the insurance company where the film is set, is both entertaining and chilling. His character's casual cruelty towards his subordinates, particularly Jack Lemmon's C.C. Baxter, is offset by his charisma and wit, making him a complex and intriguing antagonist. Walston's performance is a testament to his versatility as an actor, as he effortlessly switches between humor and menace, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Jack Kruschen

as Dr. Dreyfuss

Jack Kruschen delivers a standout performance as Dr. Dreyfuss in the movie 'The Apartment'. His portrayal of the wise and compassionate neighbor to C.C. Baxter (Jack Lemmon) adds a layer of warmth and humor to the film. Kruschen's impeccable comic timing and expressive face make his character a joy to watch, and his genuine concern for Baxter's well-being is both touching and amusing. His performance is a testament to his skill as an actor and his ability to bring depth and nuance to even the smallest roles.

David Lewis

as Al Kirkeby

David Lewis delivers a standout performance as Al Kirkeby in "The Apartment". His portrayal of the character is both humorous and heartfelt, as he expertly balances the comedic and dramatic elements of the role. Lewis's Al Kirkeby is a man who is caught between his loyalty to his friend and boss, Mr. Sheldrake, and his growing concern for the well-being of C.C. Baxter, the film's protagonist. Through subtle gestures and facial expressions, Lewis conveys the inner turmoil of his character, making him a truly memorable and relatable figure in the film. Overall, Lewis's performance is a highlight of "The Apartment" and a testament to his talent as an actor.