“My Week with Marilyn” is a 2011 biographical drama film directed by Simon Curtis. It is based on the memoir of the same name by Colin Clark, who worked as an assistant on the set of the 1957 film “The Prince and the Showgirl.” The movie explores the brief but impactful relationship between Colin Clark and the iconic Hollywood actress Marilyn Monroe during the production of the aforementioned film.

The story is set in London in 1956, where Marilyn Monroe, played by Michelle Williams, arrives to work with Sir Laurence Olivier, portrayed by Kenneth Branagh, who also directs the film. Marilyn, known for her beauty, vulnerability, and sometimes difficult behavior, struggles with the demands of the production and her own personal insecurities. Colin Clark, played by Eddie Redmayne, is a young filmmaker and aspiring actor who becomes smitten with Marilyn and offers her companionship and support during her tumultuous week in London.

The film delves into the complexities of Marilyn Monroe’s life, her insecurities, and her search for genuine connection amidst the glamour and pressures of stardom. It also explores the contrast between Marilyn’s public persona and the vulnerable woman she reveals to Colin behind closed doors. The story captures the emotional rollercoaster of their relationship and the impact it has on Colin’s own understanding of love and the film industry.

“My Week with Marilyn” received critical acclaim for its performances, particularly Michelle Williams’ portrayal of Marilyn Monroe, which earned her several award nominations and a Golden Globe win for Best Actress. Kenneth Branagh’s portrayal of Sir Laurence Olivier was also highly praised. The film provides a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of classic Hollywood and offers a unique perspective on the enigmatic figure of Marilyn Monroe.

Our My Week With Marilyn Movie Review

I’ve long been a Marilyn Monroe admirer. She seems to be the very definition of sexy. Zac went to see My Week with Marilyn at the theaters and loved it, so when I received it on Blu-Ray I was very excited.

The storyline seemed to be mesmerizing with Marilyn Monroe and Laurence Olivier filming together and falling short of one another’s expectations. It promised juicey with Monroe seducing the young assistant director once her husband, Arthur Miller, leaves town and the drama of Vivienne Leigh worried Monroe will have her husband, Laurence Olivier leaving her due to her age.

But it falls incredibly short of exciting, maybe even entertaining.

While I believe she was beautiful, I also believe Marilyn Monroe was intelligent. I’m in no way minimizing how the camera captured her…fluttery eyelashes, pouty lips. It’s why she became the icon.

The story is told from the perspective of  Colin, a college graduate, dreaming of being a director and his one week in 1956 where his dream comes true as he works with the sensational Marilyn Monroe and Laurence Olivier.

The film captures the egos of both Monroe and Olivier as they try and share the camera in The Prince and The Showgirl. Kenneth Branagh plays an incredibly dramatic Olivier.

Since the film was from Colin’s perspective and he falls in love with her, I expected to see a more beautiful image of Marilyn. Instead he painted her as, I’m sure she was, insecure, difficult and popping pills. There were no secrets divulged here that haven’t already been whispered by the media a thousand times.

Michelle Williams is beautiful in her own right, but aside from her hair and a beauty mark, her resemblance is mild, though at times I did find it uncanny. Perhaps, regardless of who played Marilyn, capturing her allure is impossible.

My husband fell asleep during the film. I held on, thinking it was going to pick up. Instead it seemed to repeat scene after scene as Marilyn was late for filming, whined for her assistant to help her with “character”. It was repetition of these things, carried on by her arrival which was sheer sparkle!

My Week with Marilyn is based on Colin Clark’s novels.

I found the love story to be unremarkable. Perhaps it’s flirt is that it was Marilyn Monroe who captured his first love. It offers the cliche that one will do anything for love as Colin starts out a dedicated worker who will go to any lengths to be in the film industry and then we watch it implode as he falls for Marilyn and defies his bosses to stay close to Marilyn.

The film portrays Monroe as difficult and with a head full of bubbles. After watching My Week with Marilyn, my opinion is that is filled with air and offers no real substance.

Why You Might Like My Week With Marilyn

There are several reasons why someone might enjoy the movie “My Week with Marilyn”:

1. Fascination with Marilyn Monroe: Marilyn Monroe remains one of the most iconic and enigmatic figures in Hollywood history. The movie provides a portrayal of her personal struggles, vulnerabilities, and complexities, allowing viewers to gain a deeper understanding of the woman behind the glamorous public image.
2. Strong Performances: The film features compelling performances by the cast, particularly Michelle Williams as Marilyn Monroe. Her portrayal received critical acclaim for capturing the essence of the iconic actress, making it a compelling reason to watch the movie.
3. Behind-the-Scenes Glimpse: “My Week with Marilyn” offers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of classic Hollywood. It explores the challenges and pressures faced by actors and filmmakers during the production of a film, shedding light on the industry and the dynamics between the cast and crew.
4. Emotional Depth: The movie delves into themes of love, loneliness, and the pursuit of authenticity. It explores the emotional connection between Marilyn Monroe and Colin Clark, showcasing the impact their brief relationship has on both characters. The emotional depth of the story can resonate with viewers who appreciate character-driven narratives.
5. Nostalgic Atmosphere: Set in the 1950s, the film captures the nostalgic atmosphere of that era. The costumes, production design, and overall aesthetic evoke a sense of classic Hollywood, which can appeal to viewers who enjoy period dramas and appreciate the style of the time.

Overall, “My Week with Marilyn” appeals to those interested in Marilyn Monroe’s life and legacy, fans of strong performances, individuals intrigued by the inner workings of the film industry, and those who appreciate emotionally engaging stories set in a nostalgic period.

Did you see this movie? What are your thoughts?

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