Review of My Week with Marilyn (2011) by John A — 01 Apr 2014
This is a light-hearted, frothy confection that is probably less than the sum of its parts.
Michelle Williams is fantastic as Marilyn Monroe, and it's almost as though the film-makers didn't know what to do with her, as she sings 'That Old Black Magic" as Marilyn over the end credits. You sense that they wish they could have made a more substantial biopic - she's that good.
That's not to dismiss the rest of the cast. Eddie Redmayne (mostly) avoids the wistful stares he used throughout the TV adaptation of Birdsong and portrays the Everyman's experience of meeting a true 20th century Icon, and being the only person to recognise her humanity.
Sir Ken Branagh and Dame Judi Dench are fab in their roles, and the story crackles along for 100 minutes, before leaving almost as abruptly as Ms Monroe does. It won't live long in the memory, but it's worth the time to see Michelle Williams light up the screen.
This review of My Week with Marilyn (2011) was written by John A on 01 Apr 2014.
My Week with Marilyn has generally received positive reviews.
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