Review of The Notorious Bettie Page (2006) by Carmela H — 06 Jul 2009

I know absolutely nothing about Bettie page and I must admit she somehow never sparked my interest but knowing how successful she was and still seeing her face in novelty shops wherever I go I assumed I had to see this film.

This portrayal of Bettie Page's life was fresh and not quite what I expected. As it is portrayed, yes, Bettie Page was one of the first an most successful sexual icons in America but she was also a God-loving woman who was not tainted by the things she did in her career.

Bettie is portrayed as kind, caring, gentle, and a lover of life. This movie also gives out an idea that she was never ashamed of her career but she stopped only because she believed it was time to stop and go about her religious way, still after she was both humble and honest about her career.

I'm 23 years old so it is very hard to relate to the controversy unfolding throughout the movie because I am part of a world where sex is available at every convenience whether you want to see it in a photo or feel it for yourself.

Back in Betty's time all a girl had to do to fall victim to law and morality was to be open about sexuality whether it was posing nude, being tied up, or even posing in bra and panties. These days imagery of sexuality goes far beyond that.

This was an interesting film and I think whether you were a Bettie Page fan or not it could be equally interesting for anyone to watch.