My Week with Marilyn

Starring: Michelle Williams, Kenneth Branagh, Eddie Redmayne, Judi Dench, Julia Ormond, Pip Torrens, Toby Jones, Robert Portal, Dougray Scott, Dominic Cooper, Emma Watson
Directed by: Simon Curtis
Rating: R
Genre: Drama
2011

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: Colin (Eddie Redmayne) is a young man working on the set of Laurence Olivier's (Kenneth Branagh) "The Prince and the Showgirl", where he meets the famous Marilyn Monroe (Michelle Williams).

Review:

Tim: My Week with Marilyn is a fascinating look at two of the biggest stars in the world coming together for a movie called The Prince and the Showgirl. The two biggest stars were British royalty- Sir Laurence Olivier, and Hollywood legend Marilyn Monroe. While this alone is a great basis for the film, this movie has a whole lot more to it. It's a very solidly made movie, and a very enjoyable one.

I loved seeing two strong actors playing two of the most famous actors of all time. Kenneth Branagh was a terrific choice to play Olivier. He has the classic look and quality to him needed to play such a legendary figure. He was very good in the part, and I'm glad he got an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his effort. Opposite of him is Michelle Williams, taking on the intimidating role of Marilyn Monroe. Now, it has taken me a long time to take Williams seriously as an actress. Even with her recent critically acclaimed roles, I still couldn't shake her as a "Dawson's Creek" actress. I admit I was a little unsure of how she would do here- playing of the most famous, glamorous actresses of all time. All I can say is that I was floored by her performance. I never felt like I was watching Williams- it felt like Marilyn Monroe was before our eyes. Sure, she embodies her mannerisms, but even more impressive is how she captures her spirit and her sensuality. Williams is incredible in the role- I'm really glad she got an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, and I thought she was good enough to win. She sparkles on screen and makes the movie her own. This is the role that finally convinced me- Michelle Williams is one of the greatest actresses working today.

Eddie Redmayne was cast as the protagonist having the titular week with Marilyn. I thought he was fine in the lead role, but I didn't love him. I think this movie would have been better with a stronger actor in this part. Judi Dench was fun to watch, as was Julia Ormond as Vivien Leigh. It was nice to see Emma Watson in a small role, too. The supporting cast is good, but this movie is really all about Williams and Branagh, and they simply own the film. Their performances are very, very good.

I love the behind-the-scenes look at the troubled production of this famous movie. We get to see Monroe's legendary difficultness on set, being late, and suffering from self-doubt. We see Olivier's anger and frustration at the entitled, spoiled American actress. However, we also see the qualities that made Monroe so famous, and Olivier such a terrific actor. I loved the look at these two fascinating people, thrown together on this difficult shoot. We also get to really understand who Marilyn Monroe was- and she's a much more interesting, complex character than we might assume.

My Week with Marilyn might not pack the emotional punch I'd hoped for, but this is an expertly crafted film about two movie legends. I thoroughly enjoyed the film, and I would wholeheartedly recommend it. Films about Hollywood legends can often feel self-congratulatory or boring, but this one brims with life and excitement. It's one of the more enjoyable films I've seen in 2011 (even if I can't quite count it among the best).

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 7.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: The Aviator, Blue Valentine, Brokeback Mountain