Marilyn Monroe: More Than a Sex Symbol

Marilyn Monroe's centenary is being marked by "the summer of Marilyn," featuring two significant exhibitions in the UK. These events aim to showcase her as more than a sex symbol or tragic figure, emphasizing her sharp comic intelligence and her role as an architect of her own image. The British Film Institute (BFI) is presenting a two-month film season revisiting her diverse filmography, from comedies to dramatic roles, inviting audiences to rediscover her dynamic presence.

The National Portrait Gallery's exhibition, "Marilyn Monroe: A Portrait," will run from June to September, exploring her influence on visual culture. It will feature works by renowned artists and previously unseen photographs, illustrating her collaborative approach to image-making and her creative control. These exhibitions seek to present Monroe as a pioneering performer who challenged the studio system and became a creative force in Hollywood.

These celebrations highlight Monroe's impact not just as an icon but as a performer who actively shaped her career. The BFI is also re-releasing "The Misfits" in cinemas across the UK and Ireland, offering a chance to revisit her final completed film. The initiative aims to move beyond the myth and commodified image to reveal the "real human performer" for contemporary audiences, drawing parallels to modern stars who manage their images and careers.