My Week with Marilyn 2011
Directed by
Simon Curtis
Made by
The Weinstein Company
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of My Week with Marilyn (2011). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
Following his graduation from university, aspiring filmmaker Colin Clark (Eddie Redmayne) makes his way to London with dreams of working on the next production of renowned actor Laurence Olivier (Kenneth Branagh). Despite being told by Hugh Perceval ([Michael Kitchen]) that no positions are available, Colin decides to wait for Olivier, with whom he once shared a brief encounter at a party. When Laurence and his wife, Vivien Leigh (Julia Ormond), finally arrive, Vivien lends her support, encouraging Olivier to hire Colin for the upcoming film “The Prince and the Showgirl,” which stars the iconic Marilyn Monroe (Michelle Williams).
Colin’s first mission is to find suitable accommodations for Marilyn and her husband, Arthur Miller ([Dougray Scott]), as they settle into England. When the media catches wind of their arrival, Colin cleverly secures a second location, impressing both Olivier and Marilyn’s publicist, Arthur Jacobs ([Toby Jones]).
Upon landing at Heathrow, Marilyn arrives with her husband, business partner Milton H. Greene ([Dominic Cooper]), and acting coach Paula Strasberg ([Zoë Wanamaker]). Initially shy around the throngs of paparazzi, she gradually warms up during a press conference. However, her tardiness to the read-through soon frustrates Olivier, especially when she requires Paula’s assistance with her lines. The crew, along with veteran actress Sybil Thorndike ([Judi Dench]), are in awe of Marilyn’s presence, while Colin finds himself drawn to wardrobe assistant Lucy ([Emma Watson]). Their budding romance leads to a date.
As production continues, Marilyn’s pattern of arriving late and forgetting her lines further irritates Olivier. Yet, Sybil stands up for her, recognizing the struggles Marilyn faces. When tensions rise, and after receiving an insulting remark from Olivier, Marilyn walks off set. Colin, showing compassion, asks Olivier for more understanding and later visits Parkside House to check on her. There, he finds Marilyn in tears, clutching Arthur’s notebook, which appears to mock her. Arthur soon returns to the US, leaving Marilyn disheartened.
Vivien, watching the turmoil from the sidelines, is visibly moved by Marilyn’s screen presence, lamenting that Olivier fails to appreciate the light she brings. With Arthur gone, Marilyn refrains from attending the set and invites Colin to her residence, deepening their connection. As Marilyn prepares for a scene, she enchants the crew with a dance, leading to Milton cautioning Colin about the nature of their relationship. Lucy, sensing the growing affection between Marilyn and Colin, decides to end their relationship.
Colin and Marilyn share a memorable day at Windsor Castle and Eton College, culminating in a forbidden skinny-dip in the River Thames. Their chemistry intensifies when Marilyn kisses Colin, only to be interrupted by her bodyguard, Roger Smith ([Philip Jackson]). Later, Marilyn contacts Colin in distress, claiming she is having a miscarriage. A doctor arrives to aid her, and she confides in Colin, expressing a desire to escape her troubles.
Despite her challenges, Marilyn returns to complete the film, where Olivier praises her work, albeit revealing that she has extinguished his desire to direct again. When Lucy inquires whether Marilyn has broken Colin’s heart, he admits, “she did, a little.” In a heartfelt farewell, Marilyn visits Colin at his B&B, thanking him for his support and sealing their brief but impactful connection with a kiss before she leaves for the airport, driven away by Roger.
Timeline
Track the key events of My Week with Marilyn (2011) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Colin Graduates and Moves to London
After completing his university studies, aspiring filmmaker Colin Clark relocates to London with aspirations of working with the legendary Laurence Olivier. Despite initial discouragement about job availability, Colin remains hopeful for an opportunity to collaborate with his idol.
Colin Meets Olivier and Vivien
Upon Olivier and Leigh's arrival in London, Vivien recognizes Colin's enthusiasm and encourages her husband to consider hiring him for their next film project. This moment gives Colin a renewed sense of purpose as he strives to make a mark in the film industry.
Marilyn Lands in Heathrow
The iconic Marilyn Monroe arrives at Heathrow International Airport, accompanied by her husband Arthur Miller and her business partner Milton H. Greene. Initially overwhelmed by the media frenzy, Marilyn navigates through the paparazzi and later participates in a press conference.
Colin Finds Accommodations
Colin takes on the responsibility of finding accommodations for Marilyn and her entourage as they settle into England. His resourcefulness helps him secure a second location, impressing both Olivier and Marilyn's publicist Arthur Jacobs.
First Read-Through and Tensions Arise
During the initial read-through for 'The Prince and the Showgirl', Marilyn's lateness and reliance on her acting coach Paula Strasberg for assistance frustrates Olivier. The crew, however, remains enchanted by her presence, creating a mix of admiration and mounting tension.
Marilyn Walks Off Set
After enduring an insulting remark from Olivier, Marilyn decides to walk off the set, showcasing her vulnerability. Colin intervenes, advocating for compassion toward her struggles and later pays a visit to check on her well-being.
Colin Finds Marilyn in Distress
At Parkside House, Colin discovers Marilyn distressed and in tears, clutching Arthur's notebook, which appears to mock her. This moment reveals the deeper emotional struggles Marilyn faces amid her professional challenges.
Marilyn Deepens Connection with Colin
With her husband Arthur away, Marilyn invites Colin over, allowing their relationship to blossom. She enchants him with a dance as they share an intimate moment that deepens their emotional bond amidst her turbulent life.
Memorable Day at Windsor Castle
Colin and Marilyn share an unforgettable day visiting Windsor Castle and Eton College, highlighting their growing chemistry. Their adventure culminates in a spontaneous skinny-dip in the River Thames, further deepening their connection.
Marilyn's Health Crisis
Marilyn reaches out to Colin in distress, fearing she may be experiencing a miscarriage. A doctor arrives to assist her, revealing the emotional and physical toll her fame and relationships are taking on her.
Marilyn Returns to Film
Despite her turmoil, Marilyn courageously returns to complete the film. Olivier acknowledges her contributions during production but admits that her performance has extinguished his desire to direct in the future.
Colin Hearts Broke a Little
When Lucy asks Colin if Marilyn has broken his heart, he simply responds that she did, albeit only a little. This moment underscores the bittersweet nature of his relationship with Marilyn as the production progresses.
Final Farewell
In an emotional farewell, Marilyn visits Colin at his B&B to express her gratitude for his unwavering support. Their brief yet impactful connection culminates with a kiss, a poignant reminder of their fleeting romance before she departs.
Marilyn Leaves for the Airport
As Marilyn departs for the airport, she is driven away by her bodyguard Roger Smith. This moment signifies the end of her time in England and leaves Colin reflecting on the impact she had on his life.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring My Week with Marilyn (2011) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Colin Clark
Colin Clark is an aspiring filmmaker whose enthusiasm and charm allow him to carve out a place within the tumultuous world of film. His admiration for Marilyn and desire to support her highlight his kind-hearted nature. As he navigates the complexities of love and ambition, Colin serves as a bridge between Marilyn and the harsh realities of Hollywood.
Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn Monroe is portrayed as a complex figure wrestling with both her status as a global icon and her personal troubles. Her vulnerability is evident as she struggles with the expectations placed upon her and her own sense of self. The film captures her light and charm, while also shedding light on the darker elements of fame and the emotional toll it takes on her.
Laurence Olivier
Laurence Olivier is depicted as a legendary actor navigating the tension between his artistic vision and the realities of working with a challenging co-star like Marilyn. His frustrations highlight the pressures of directing a film, particularly with someone whose personal struggles complicate the production process. Olivier embodies the dedication and passion of a seasoned artist.
Vivien Leigh
Vivien Leigh plays a supportive but concerned role, offering encouragement to Olivier while also recognizing Marilyn's struggles. Her character acts as a moral compass in the film, understanding the complexities of being in the limelight and the emotional battles that come with it. Vivien's reflections on Marilyn reveal her empathy and understanding of the art of performance.
Setting
Uncover the settings of My Week with Marilyn (2011), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
1950s
The movie is set in the 1950s, a period marked by significant changes in the entertainment industry, as Hollywood's golden age began to wane. During this era, stars like Marilyn Monroe faced intense media scrutiny, and their personal lives often eclipsed their professional achievements. The tensions between traditional and modern filmmaking practices were also becoming apparent, leading to various behind-the-scenes challenges in productions.
Location
London, Windsor Castle, Eton College, River Thames
The film primarily takes place in London, a bustling city known for its rich history and cultural significance in the film industry. Windsor Castle and Eton College serve as picturesque locations that highlight the grandeur of British architecture while providing a romantic backdrop for Colin and Marilyn's escapade. The River Thames adds an element of intimacy to their relationship, representing the flow of their brief but poignant connection.
Themes
Explore the core themes of My Week with Marilyn (2011). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Love and Heartbreak
The theme of love and heartbreak is central to the narrative, as Colin develops feelings for Marilyn, who is grappling with her own tumultuous life. Their brief romance symbolizes fleeting connections that can leave lasting impressions, further complicated by Marilyn's struggles with her marriage and celebrity status. Ultimately, their interactions reveal the vulnerability underlying fame and the heartaches that come with it.
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Art vs. Reality
The conflict between art and reality plays a significant role, showcasing the challenges Marilyn faces as a talented actress burdened by personal issues. Her struggles during filming highlight the pressures of maintaining a public persona while dealing with private turmoil. The movie intricately weaves these themes, revealing how the demands of performance can clash with one's emotional state.
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Fame and Scrutiny
Fame and scrutiny are pivotal themes in the film, depicted through Marilyn's interactions with media and the production team. The relentless attention of the paparazzi exemplifies the challenges of maintaining a personal life while under public observation. The film delves into the loneliness fame can bring, as seen in Marilyn's relationships, which often suffer under the weight of expectation.
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