misguided ambition

His films like Sunset Boulevard and The Apartment dissect how ambition corrupts individuals and institutions in Hollywood and corporate America.

His visceral explorations in Black Swan, The Wrestler, and Requiem for a Dream depict protagonists consumed and destroyed by their relentless pursuit of perfectionism and success.

His masterpiece Heaven's Gate examines how grandiose artistic ambition and unchecked power lead to catastrophic personal and professional ruin.