What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this engrossing movie based on the memoirs of writer-director Colin Clark isn't so much a biopic as a window into a week of Marilyn Monroe's life as interpreted by Clark. It's not a salacious account, but there are hints at how the icon traded on her sexuality (complete with a couple of glimpses of Monroe, as played by Michelle Williams, naked from behind). You can also expect plenty of smoking, cocktail drinking, and swearing (including "f--k" and "s--t").
- Families can talk about why Marilyn Monroe continues to be an icon. What is her lasting appeal? Can she be considered a role model?
- Does Monroe seem aware of her magic in this movie? Does the film advance her status as an icon or demystify her in any way? How?
- Do you think it's necessary for movies set in the 1950s to include lots of smoking and drinking? Why or why not?