Review of The Notorious Bettie Page (2006) by James K — 17 May 2013

The 1950s were definitely a time of change, especially in the entertainment world. Television was becoming the norm, movie studios were losing audiences and the Cold War between the U.S. and the Soviet Union was starting to create tension. One of these changes was adult magazines popping up and creating a controversy over what could be censored. The 2006 film "The Notorious Bettie Page" is a good combination of pornographic images and what the government thinks is "obscene". Though the film could longer, it definitely shows what went on during that time period of the 1950s.

The plot has Bettie Page (Gretchen Mol) going from the humble life of Nashville, Tennessee, all the way up to New York where she becomes a modeler. As said model, Bettie dresses up in provocative clothing to take photos for some interesting people. Unfortunately, the government tries to shut down the studio that Bettie is working for as the images that are being distributed are effecting the youth of the nation. Is Bettie's work hurting the American public, or is it all for fun?

"The Notorious Bettie Page" is a good biopic about one of the most leading women in the adult entertainment business. The story mainly sticks with Bettie's career as a model while asking the question: is it safe for everyone? The production team that went into this movie did an amazing job. Mary Harron, the director, was a very good decision on the studio's part, as had this film had been directed by a man, the movie would have been a completely different film. In terms of acting, everyone is perfect, especially Gretchen Mol, who delivered an outstanding performance. The soundtrack is good by bringing in a big band orchestra and early 1950s hits to play over the film to set the mood of the time period. While the subject matter isn't as quite as topical as it is today, it does bring up the notion of what can and can not be shown to the public. But what really sells the film is the cinematography.

For most of the movie, "The Notorious Bettie Page" is shown in black and white. The reason behind this is because the filmmakers wanted to recapture the entertainment world when it still was working in black and white. Yes, there are moments when the film changes from black and white to color , but for the most part, the movie is in black and white. The way the movie is shot is fantastic as black and white films are beginning to die out of the public media.

There is one minor problem with the movie, in which it could have gone a bit longer. If there had been an epilogue that showed the significance of Bettie Page, then the movie would have been perfect.

In conclusion, "The Notorious Bettie Page" is good movie about one of the most prolific women in the adult entertainment industry.