Those of us who love Hollywood films know that it is impossible to ignore the contributions of one female who charmed her way through the Golden Days of Hollywood in the 1950s and 1960s. Standing in 2023, we might be in two minds about calling her “blonde bombshell,” knowing how it stereotypes a section of women. However, Monroe remains the emblem of the sexual revolution in Hollywood. Simultaneously, the woman remains one of the most prominent icons of pop culture. Not only in films but she also ruled the fashion industry back in the day. Her charming smile, boldness before the camera, and graceful appearance made her shine in the typically male-dominated sphere of Hollywood.
Last year, Andrew Dominik directed “Blonde,” the second film based on the life and death of the famous star, based on Joyce Carol Oates’s novel of the same title. Dominik very creatively interprets the darkness that overshadowed the glamorous life of Monroe. The biopic on Netflix, released in late September, created a buzz. Ana de Armas, who played the role of Monroe, stole hearts and left very little room for criticism. However, this wasn’t the first biopic on Monroe and definitely won’t be the last. But the director’s take on the life of Monroe was unique in every way. If you have enjoyed “Blonde,” here are some other biopics on Monroe and other famous silver screen faces that you must watch.
Marilyn: The Untold Story (1980)
The very similar storyline to “Blonde” – from Monroe’s childhood till her death, we see the highs and lows of her life. Catherine Hicks’s performance has left global critics and audiences in awe. If you have enjoyed the closeness of Ana de Armas, brace yourself: Hicks looked almost identical to Monroe. The film, however, has a more direct approach to Monroe’s life. If you haven’t watched the film, you must. You might just be a fan of Hicks as soon as you look at the poster.
My Week With Marilyn (2011)
Another Marilyn Monroe biopic is probably one of the best movies based on her life. The movie stars Michelle Williams as Monroe and is adapted from the two books written by Colin Clark. He was a personal assistant on the film set of “The Prince and the Showgirl” (1957). The film is based on the relationship that Monroe shared during the shooting of the film with both Colin Clark and the lead actor, Kenneth Branagh. The film provides amazing glimpses of Monroe’s behavior on set and a look into her personal mind too.
Chaplin (1992)
Moving on from Monroe, there are a few other biographies that we have on our list. The one that ranks at the top is undoubtedly Richard Attenborough’s “Chaplin.” The universally acclaimed biopic of the universal Hollywood star Chaplin was a tearjerker for a few. The film’s narrative is quite commendable, as we see an elderly Chaplin’s perspective on his life as an actor. Chaplin, played by one of Hollywood’s finest stars, Robert Downey Jr., received global acclaim for the accuracy and precision with which he played the role. The film helped him earn his first Oscar nomination.
James Dean (2001)
James Dean is the “Rebel Without A Cause” (1955) actor whose phenomenal performance, a knack for improvisation and sharp features instantly made him popular among his fans back in the fifties. Undoubtedly, he has a greater number of female fans. The actor was one of the pioneers to influence the teenage culture of the mid-1950s. According to several researchers, Elvis Presley was also deeply influenced by him. Unfortunately, the actor passed away at a really young age, making him a tragic hero for many. The biopic, directed by Mark Rydell, highlights his fame, his influence, and his untimely death. The movie is a neat interpretation of the childhood traumas, struggles, and fame of the legendary Dean.
The Life And Death Of Peter Sellers (2004)
Peter Sellers is a widely popular English comedian. The film “The Life and Death of Peter Sellers” is a wonderful biographical drama that won lots of prestigious awards. The film bagged nine Primetime Emmys, including Best Actor for Geoffrey Rush (Peter Sellers), and two Golden Globes. The film, unlike other biopics, does not focus on his growing years. It begins at a time when Peter is already a popular name in several households. And then, it walks us through his work and family life. The wonderfully simple yet heart-touching film is a must-watch.
Stan & Ollie (2018)
The famous comedy duo Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy have entertained the audience for several years. The duo was famously known as Laurel and Hardy. The biopic is about the struggles of these two kindred spirits. The film honestly portrays the lives and struggles and the off-screen feuds of famous comedians. Starring comedians Steve Coogan (Stan) and John C. Reilly (Ollie) adds much-needed flavor to the film. The heart-melting film is one of a kind and, therefore, a must-watch.
Elvis (2022)
The list would have been incomplete without this biopic. A phenomenal movie about Elvis Presley was released in mid-2022. Like “Blonde,” the movie is about another famous “sex symbol” of Hollywood who rocked his way through Rock and Roll to become the King. Austin Butler has stolen every thunder-playing Elvis. The film is from Elvis’ manager’s perspective, played by Tom Hanks. The tangled fate and relationship of the duo were given equal prominence in the film, along with highlighting the struggles of Elvis’s life. The rendition of “Unchained Melody” in the film is bound to give goosebumps. Elvis is a fine biopic that you must watch if you haven’t yet.
Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)
Furthermore, the list ends with a cinematic masterpiece “Bohemian Rhapsody,” a timeless cinematic masterpiece by Bryan Singer. Although a few fun scenes of the film was made possible by Dexter Fletcher. Back in 1970, Freddie Mercury, the lead singer of Queen, gave the band a meteoric rise with his pathbreaking style that defies convention and stereotypes. The film celebrates the rise of Mercury from a gay man, an immigrant to a star. The film highlights all his internal and societal struggles to create an identity and an impact that is everlasting. The film is a tribute to one of the brightest stars of Rock n Roll. Rami Malek delivered a phenomenal performance as Freddie that not only won him the hearts of millions but also the Best Actor award at the 2019 Oscars. This monumental masterpiece is a film that no one should miss. So, grab your popcorn and some drinks to begin to walk in the shoes of great actors and comedians who have ruled the hearts of the masses since the inception of the Golden Days of Hollywood.Â
