Film on Marilyn Monroe

Michelle Williams plays Marilyn Monroe in a film that releases in India in 2012. TOI compiles a list of alternatives who could play the legendary Hollywood singer-actress
It doesn’t matter what generation you belong to, if you’ve ever laid eyes on yesteryear Hollywood actress Marilyn Monroe, you wouldn’t be able to look away. Her claim to fame was her effortless powers of seduction. And try as we may, we can’t see that magic being reiterated in My Week With Marilyn, a film toplining Michelle Williams. Now, She is a brilliant actress and is garnering serious Oscar buzz for this role, after the film released in the US last month. But going by the promos, we aren’t too excited.
Monroe romanced athletes and presidents alike and her sex appeal was legendary. She had folks like Elton John and Andy Warhol for fans. We came up with a list of own of actresses who fit the bill for various reasons — looks and otherwise.
Kate Winslet Why her: Has proved herself time and again. Is a delight to watch on screen and still looks like a million bucks. And has also done a ‘tribute’ photoshoot. We rest our case. What works against her: Winslet is best utilised by directors and co-stars she is comfortable working with.
Natalie Portman Why her: She can effortlessly slip into any character, especially the troubled kinds. Still a doubter? See Black Swan. What works against her: A little too petite, she is also a brunette and far too skinny to actually look the part.
Scarlett Johansson Why her: Are you blind? If not, she doesn’t need an introduction or a recommendation. She’s a stunner. Was even a former frontrunner for the role. What works against her: Once you stop ogling, you realise that biopics aren’t exactly her strong suit.
Lindsay Lohan Why her: Looks the part. She’s treading down the Monroe path of destruction far quicker. Would be like looking through a mirror for her. What works against her: No director wants to work with her until she cleans up and sorts out her legal troubles.
CharliZe theron Why her: She’s mercurial in her perfomances. Can inhabit any character given to her. What works against her: Height.
Drew Barrymore Why her: She knows the journey. Has been throught bad times and men — and returned stronger. And unlike Monroe, survived. What works against her: She is too cutesy and girl-next-door. Monroe spelled oomph. That’s missing.