My Week with Marilyn (2011)

My Week with Marilyn
JOIN NOW

Coarse language

Director: Simon Curtis
Actors: Michelle Williams, Kenneth Branagh, Eddie Redmayne, Julia Ormond, Emma Watson, Toby Jones, Dougray Scott, Miranda Raison, Dominic Cooper, Judi Dench, Zoe Wanamaker

Colin Clark, an employee of Sir Laurence Olivier's, documents the tense interaction between Olivier and Marilyn Monroe during production of The Prince and the Showgirl.

The collision of the two worlds, old England and new Hollywood, is as congruous as it is delightful. Slowly, Marilyn begins to shake off the dark fog of insecurity and fear always hovering around her. She reacts with lovely naturalness to this alien world and as she relaxes, she offers Colin insights into her own background, one of family madness, single-minded ambition and uninhibited sexuality. Simply and without self-pity, she relates the tale of her rise to the top in Hollywood.

DVD
Status: QuickPick
Run time: 99mins
Origin: UNITED KINGDOM
Aspect Ratio: 16:9

Member Reviews (70)

70 Member Reviews
McLovin
says
Can Eddie Redmayne play anything other than a bastard? Every film I see him in his character fails: shame. I enjoyed this film a great deal and loved seeing the humanity (and the humility) behind some of the best known characters of mid century film. Michelle Williams sis wonderful and whilst she may not "look like" Marilyn she plays the breathless accent and the "whole other sex" movements brilliantly. Well done Kenneth, and Eddie, and as always Dame Judy out acts everyone.
Posted Sunday, 2 June 2013 See my other reviews
John
says
This movie is an undiluted delight. It has a sophisticated and subtle tone, never excessive, but still it gently unravels the persona of a much troubled and exploited woman. The music, the strength of the cast and the dialogue are all top draw.
Posted Thursday, 9 May 2013 See my other reviews
Buzzie
says
Enjoyable and entertaining
Posted Tuesday, 30 April 2013 See my other reviews
Lynnieb
says
I really enjoyed this. Loved the behind the scenes about the making of the movie and the insight into Marilyn as a person. Even though Michelle did a great job I agree there was something missing in her performance. I was so intrigued I watched the original Prince and the Showgirl. Munroe certainly had a screen presence that would be hard to emulate.
Posted Monday, 29 April 2013 See my other reviews
says
Not quite the insight I expected, the portrayel of Marilyn seemed a bit shallow, and nowhere near as sexy as she actually was in life. Average watch really.
Posted Monday, 8 April 2013 See my other reviews
3/04/13
says
I enjoyed this: a sweet romance
Posted Thursday, 4 April 2013 See my other reviews
says
I enjoyed this movie. it reminded me of a doco i saw on Marilyn and I remembered what a tragic and very messed up person she really was. It's a pity she didn't ever get to be a serious actress as she always wanted to be. Michelle Williams is very convincing and really looked the part. Judi Dench, Kenneth Branagh are also very good.
Posted Wednesday, 27 March 2013 See my other reviews
Juliet
says
Loved this small and rather intimate movie. Who needs big productions with little jewels like this one. It was funny and moving all at once, a bit like real life, and based in a true story so it rang very true. When a movie feels too short it means that it is very good, one is left wishing for more of the same.
Posted Saturday, 16 March 2013 See my other reviews
Kez
says
Michele Williams had me convinced that she was Marilyn from the beginning. One of the few films that gave a savvy insight to Ms Monroe. Good film considering the small snapshot of time it covered.
Posted Friday, 15 March 2013 See my other reviews
R&B Glasgow
says
Really enjoyable, we actually felt that we had experienced a week with Marilyn after viewing the film! Acting was superb and would recommend this movie most enthusiastically!!
Posted Saturday, 2 March 2013 See my other reviews
says
A light hearted film easy to watch with no issues or hangups. It caught the period well and all the actors played their roles well.
Posted Friday, 1 March 2013 See my other reviews
Barbara
says
A fairly lighthearted film , great for when you just want to be entertained.
Posted Thursday, 21 February 2013 See my other reviews
Cynthia
says
I enjoyed this movie, good casting (lots of familiar faces), and an interesting side to the star the TV show 'Smash' is also about.
Posted Thursday, 21 February 2013 See my other reviews
Wayne
says
Thoroughly enjoyable experience with great performances by the entire cast.
Posted Wednesday, 20 February 2013 See my other reviews
Cairo49
says
Michelle Williams was fantastic and it was a good movie, but not a great one. An interesting look at the whole Hollywood system.
Posted Sunday, 3 February 2013 See my other reviews
garrett
says
quite enjoyable movie and the actors did a good job - and a true story
Posted Monday, 24 December 2012 See my other reviews
says
Great cast, script and locations but, sadly, this did not endear me to Marilyn at all. She comes across and a silly, self indulgent and childish person.
Posted Saturday, 15 December 2012 See my other reviews
kjn2010
says
Enjoyed, liked it was based on true story.
Posted Tuesday, 11 December 2012 See my other reviews
says
A beautiful recreation of Britain in the 50's and sensational performances from the entire cast.
Posted Tuesday, 11 December 2012 See my other reviews
Weetbix
says
This was a surprisingly enjoyable film. At first we did not think it would amount to much
Posted Monday, 3 December 2012 See my other reviews
cazzam
says
Wouldn't believe it was true if you hadn't been told it was a true story. Excellent performances from a wonderful cast, interesting story & good soundtrack.
Posted Saturday, 1 December 2012 See my other reviews
d
says
Very enjoyable movie, but lacked climax. Left feeling a bit empty, not unlike the title character. Michelle Williams and Kenneth Branagh were brilliant.
Posted Wednesday, 28 November 2012 See my other reviews
Purplesue
says
Brilliant!! Loved it heaps - wasn't expecting it to be that good. Only got it out on the recommendation of a friend, & so glad I listened. Loved it from beginning to end. Michlle Willams was brilliant in the Marilyn role. Good to see some well known actors taking "bit parts" for a change. Don't miss this one.
Posted Saturday, 17 November 2012 See my other reviews
jaschar00
says
Not a bad film, I wouldn't pay to see it at the movies though.
Posted Friday, 16 November 2012 See my other reviews
Jess
says
Really enjoyed this, amazing casting.
Posted Friday, 16 November 2012 See my other reviews
says
I enjoyed this movie and have to say that Michelle Williams did a brilliant and sensitive job playing Marilyn. her Oscar nomination was well deserved.
Posted Tuesday, 6 November 2012 See my other reviews
Lisa
says
I really enjoyed this as I love anything about old move stars - but it was a good movie even if you are not a huge Marilyn fan. Very watchable
Posted Friday, 26 October 2012 See my other reviews
deb
says
excellent
Posted Sunday, 14 October 2012 See my other reviews
jenetta
says
A good film about her life. a bit long and shows her as dumb but entertaining enough.
Posted Wednesday, 10 October 2012 See my other reviews
Annie S
says
Surprisingly good, as I couldn't have pictured Michelle Williams in this role , but she did a very good job at it. Enjoyable and a well executed movie. The Colin character was a bit of a dead beat though and I couldn't imagine Marilyn having an ounce of interest in this pathetic guy!
Posted Saturday, 29 September 2012 See my other reviews
Ryan
says
Excellent movie. Michelle Williams' performance is amazing.
Posted Friday, 28 September 2012 See my other reviews
Emma
says
I really enjoyed this movie - very watchable. An interesting perspective on the life of Marilyn and Michelle was perfect in her role!
Posted Wednesday, 26 September 2012 See my other reviews
Alex
says
I felt that I was in the company of Marilyn the acting was so realistic.
Posted Saturday, 22 September 2012 See my other reviews
says
I found this movie boring but so was Marilyn. A bit like Joey from friends.
Posted Tuesday, 11 September 2012 See my other reviews
Margit
says
Good acting by all, I found Marilyn annoyng, but then again that was Marilyn.
Posted Tuesday, 11 September 2012 See my other reviews
Helen
says
Michelle Williams is a superb actor and I think she deserved the Academy Award for this portrayal as Marilyn Monroe. As much as I adore Meryl Streep!
Posted Sunday, 9 September 2012 See my other reviews
Lee
says
Didn't like it....., mostly found the main character playing Marilyn very annoying.....made it to the end though.......so that says something
Posted Saturday, 8 September 2012 See my other reviews
Suzandra
says
An enjoyable movie with excellent performances. The film portrays Marilyn's childlike sensitivities & insecurity. Unfortunately her famous song/dance performances are only shown at the beginning where a stunning sequence of her strutting her stuff wets one's appetite for more & is a great lead in. The film needed a bit more of this to keep us tuned into the behind the performance dramas. Based on a true story about the lovely relationship Marilyn forms with the main character. Fabulous acting. Very enjoyable.
Posted Wednesday, 5 September 2012 See my other reviews
bluecooperfan
says
Not as grabbed by this as I thought I would be. Actually a bit disappointed. Definitely agree with comments about it being a documentary style movie.... OK but not one I would watch over and over
Posted Friday, 31 August 2012 See my other reviews
Colin
says
I've never seen a Marilyn movie, I only know her as an Icon of her time. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie, I thought the acting was superb throughout. A straight-forward, linear plot that is well executed.
Posted Friday, 31 August 2012 See my other reviews
Brian
says
Colin to Marilyn (about Sir Laurence Olivier): "He is a great actor, who wants to be a film star. You are a great film star who wants to be an actress". I totally got this movie which I only rented after reading some favourite reviewers on Quickflix. You have to view this movie from the context of the 1950s, when the USA was the most powerful nation on earth but a young, loud, new money society. England was the old world, full of real royalty, real history going back thousands of years and yes, real castles. Viewed in those terms, this movie makes perfect sense. Americans still swoon at English Royalty (think: Diana, Princess of Wales or Kate and Wills) and the English are still fascinated by the American 'can do' attitude. I don't think this movie is for everyone but if you are a lover of fine acting and the old movie world of bygone years, then this is a 'must see' movie. Superb acting from just about everyone but especially Michelle WIlliams (as Marilyn) and Kenneth Branagh (as Sir Laurence Olivier). Loved it.
Posted Wednesday, 29 August 2012 See my other reviews
Lesley
says
Just ok. Not sure what I expected but i couldn't get into this really. A bit too much of a doco. I like doco's on serious stuff but not on M Monroe.
Posted Wednesday, 22 August 2012 See my other reviews
kim
says
We enjoyed this movie. Just a nice winter night movie. Marilyn was such a tortured soul, poor thing.
Posted Monday, 20 August 2012 See my other reviews
Rossi
says
Quite a good movie and interesting for not only Marilyn fans but fans of show biz in general. I think Michelle Williams well and truly represented what the script asked of her, that is based on how Marilyn was perceived. The perception is from the book the movie was based on and viewers should keep this in mind. Thumbs up from me.
Posted Monday, 20 August 2012 See my other reviews
juliekym
says
I have read so much about Marilyn in the past and seen all her movies and I really didn't thin Michelle could pull it off but by the end I was so pulled in by her performance that I truly believed she was Marilyn. Shows how deeply disturbed she really was and possibly why I think she took her own life. I did enjoy this film.
Posted Monday, 20 August 2012 See my other reviews
Deb
says
This actress is totally unbelievable as Marilyn. Very disappointing!
Posted Sunday, 19 August 2012 See my other reviews
Geoff @gol
says
As a baby boomer we crave for anything about "Marilyn" Even a weak storyline written in 1995 that required a lot of padding,overall it did not match up to all the hype. Rather than it being a true story I suspect more like the writer's fantasy as no one can challenge it because most of them are dead. Who knows? Bottom line Marilyn never stood a chance in those times due to all the hangers on bleeding her dry. All characters were extremely shallow Williams did show how insecure and vulnerable she was. Dench also did a good job but I rate only a fair night's entertainment.
Posted Monday, 6 August 2012 See my other reviews
Juanita
says
I enjoyed this movie and love learning about the real Marilyn Monroe, I have seen a few MM movies and sad to say but because of the characters she played and the persona she displayed in her movies, I actually liked watching Michelle Williams act as Marilyn in this movie, more than I liked watching Marilyn act in her own movies!! I know there was more to her character than was publicly seen and thought that she should have stayed the natural brunette she was, prior to changing to MM. For all her issues and insecurities, she did have that alluring charm about her, captured extremely well by Michelle Williams and interesting to see how this charm influenced even seasoned actors like Lawrence Olivier. Loved watching the flirtations and the romance - and I believe that she was basically misunderstood.
Posted Saturday, 4 August 2012 See my other reviews
Rhiannon
says
Beautiful film, worth watching.
Posted Thursday, 2 August 2012 See my other reviews
Brooke
says
I have never watched a movie with so much hype around it that has come out to be a great film. My Week With Marilyn changed that completely. Michelle Williams as Marilyn was amazing. Emma Watson had a small role but the film wouldn't have been the same without that character. The real star of the show was Eddie Redmayne as Colin. He was believeable and even I shed a little tear for him at the end of the movie.
Posted Sunday, 22 July 2012 See my other reviews
Denise
says
Michelle Williams did a fantastic job as Marilyn. Creates more illusions as to who she really was. Was she a good,bad or a superbly naive insecure actress?? I quess we will never know but her name still goes on in the history of movie stars***
Posted Friday, 20 July 2012 See my other reviews
Robert
says
What a top movie. Well acted, well shot everything about it was goo. Nice to see Marilyn seen in a human way
Posted Wednesday, 18 July 2012 See my other reviews
Lyn
says
I don't understand the fuss about this movie. A very slight plot and far too many lingering shots of Michelle Williams' face. The story of Marilyn Monroe's life has become such a cliche and this was more of the same.
Posted Tuesday, 17 July 2012 See my other reviews
John
says
A heartfelt tale about a sad life and if true, tells us much about the woman behind the facade.
Posted Wednesday, 11 July 2012 See my other reviews
Kim
says
Really enjoyable movie. Michelle Williams is great
Posted Saturday, 7 July 2012 See my other reviews
Danigirl
says
I didnt think I would enjoy this movie as much as I did. Michelle Williams is great in this and portrays Marilyn extremely well. Worth watching.
Posted Tuesday, 3 July 2012 See my other reviews
Shep
says
I enjoyed this movie more than I expected to. As there is something about Michelle Williams that no matter who she is playing I just see Michelle Williams. Having said that I think she did a fair job with portraying Marilyn, particularly her mannerisms. Dame Judi and Sir Kenneth always brilliant..
Posted Tuesday, 3 July 2012 See my other reviews
Luthien Nienna
says
I loved this film. Michelle is fabulous as Marilyn, portraying both the fame and frailty with great skill. Kenneth is very convincing as Sir Lawrence, and this is a great insight into this snapshot of the life of Marilyn Monroe, and the film industry at that time.
Posted Monday, 2 July 2012 See my other reviews
Jennifer L
says
This movie was much better than I anticipated. I missed it at the movies but wanted to watch it before I forgot about it. It was exceptionally well done. Judy Dench of course was magnificent in it as she is in everything. Michelle Williams as Marilyn played an excellent part. Talk about actresses being difficult to work with but it was because she believed in "the Method" I suppose. Well worth a watch! Well worth a watch!
Posted Monday, 2 July 2012 See my other reviews
JaneS
says
I never really got what all the hoopla was about Michelle Williams until I saw this film AND BOY DOES SHE SHINE!
Posted Saturday, 30 June 2012 See my other reviews
Bron
says
MIchelle Williams does an amazing job in recreating Marilyn Monroe, all smouldering sexiness, naive innocence and neurotic insecurities. An enjoyable film and interesting insight into how frustrated Laurence Olivier became with his leading lady during the making of The Prince and The Showgirl. Eddie Redmayne is charmingly naive as Marilyn's young love interest and confidante. Judy Dench is magnificent as always.
Posted Saturday, 30 June 2012 See my other reviews
gerd
says
The Marilyn Monroe character in this movie laments that she is finding it difficult to play the role in the film being made because the character doesn't seem real. The same can be said about the movie: the characters don't seem credibly real. That aside, it's an interesting perspective on two famous film stars making an improbable but real film. And the movie is pleasant enough.
Posted Saturday, 30 June 2012 See my other reviews
Silke
says
Loved it. Michelle Williams obviously worked very hard in this role and pulled it off quite remarkably. For the first time in my life I even watched the "Director's Commentary", which gave an in depth insight into the making of the movie. Seeing this movie has made me want to learn more about Marilyn's life. The little dance half way through the movie is totally Marilyn.
Posted Wednesday, 27 June 2012 See my other reviews
Anita L
says
As a child of the 80's, I don't know much of Marilyn's history. This movie portrays her as someone who is lost, a bit "deer in the headlights" and maybe someone who has little confidence in their ability, but very flirty and sexual at the same time.
Posted Wednesday, 27 June 2012 See my other reviews
Nomes
says
Williams did a great job in this role.
Posted Wednesday, 27 June 2012 See my other reviews
Cindy
says
Great acting, well directed and paced.....it's just a pity that the storyline never ventured far from telemovie territory. A lot of films have been made about Monroe. Pretty much all of them portray her as a fragile, "little girl lost", surrounded by greedy sycophants and simply looking for love in a hostile world. So does this one. It might well be accurate, but that the problem is that it has nothing new to say. The result is a film that's quite watchable but ultimately; quite forgettable
Posted Wednesday, 27 June 2012 See my other reviews
Mrs D
says
Definately for the Boomers. Found this rather slow and boring...
Posted Wednesday, 27 June 2012 See my other reviews
CL-D
says
A compact, well crafted movie. Interesting and enjoyable to watch, if not a heavyweight. Michelle Williams was superb and managed to get Marilyn's mannerisms down just pat, making up for the fact that she didn't exactly look like her. Dame Judy, Kenneth Branagh and Eddie Redmayne put in great supporting role efforts. A rare insight into what her life must have been like and her flawed character, borne out of a loveless upbringing.
Posted Wednesday, 27 June 2012 See my other reviews
Larry
says
An interesting drama based on the personal conflicts between the people involved in making the 'Prince and the Showgirl' movie back in the 50's. Not really for the younger crowd, but the Boomers should enjoy it.
Posted Tuesday, 26 June 2012 See my other reviews
Steve
says
Michelle Williams is incredible - should have got an oscar...
Posted Monday, 26 March 2012 See my other reviews