Watched by all, seen by none.|Sep. 16, 2022|USA|166 Min.|NC-17
Genre: Adult;Biography;Drama;History
Description: “Blonde” (2022) is an American biographical film directed by Andrew Dominik, inspired by Joyce Carol Oates’ 2000 novel of the same name. The movie offers a fictionalized portrayal of the life and career of Marilyn Monroe, played by Ana de Armas. The cast includes notable actors such as Adrien Brody, Bobby Cannavale, Xavier Samuel, and Julianne Nicholson.
The film employs a mix of black-and-white and color sequences, with varying aspect ratios adding to its unique visual style. Produced by Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, Tracey Landon, Brad Pitt, and Scott Robertson, “Blonde” underwent a long development process starting in 2010. Filming began in August 2019 in Los Angeles and concluded in July 2021, delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The movie sparked controversy due to its graphic content, casting choices, and its NC-17 rating, making it the first film of its kind released via a streaming platform. It premiered at the 79th Venice International Film Festival on September 8, 2022, followed by a limited theatrical release in the United States on September 16, 2022. Netflix released the film for streaming on September 28, 2022. Critics had mixed reactions, praising de Armas’ performance but debating Dominik’s depiction of Monroe’s life, with some viewing it as innovative and others as exploitative.
The story follows Norma Jeane Mortenson, who rises to fame as Marilyn Monroe in 1950s and 1960s Hollywood. Despite her on-screen success, her personal life is marked by love struggles, abuse, exploitation, and addiction. Initially, Naomi Watts was cast as Monroe in 2010, with production set to begin in 2011, but the project evolved over time.
“Blonde” is a bold and provocative take on the life of one of cinema’s most iconic figures, blending artistic storytelling with historical imagination.
Cast director: Andrew Dominik
Cast actor: Ana de Armas, Adrien Brody, Bobby Cannavale, Garret Dillahunt, Sara Paxton, Lucy DeVito, Julianne Nicholson, Scoot McNairy, Xavier Samuel, Caspar Phillipson
Original name: Blonde