This week, see Marilyn Monroe in a different light as actors perform readings of her journals in the documentary Love, Marilyn. Very much a homage to the famous actress by filmmaker Liz Garbus (Bobby Fischer Against The World), this documentary does its best to explain why 51 years after her death, Marilyn Monroe still fascinates us today. Also this week, you can enjoy a hilarious Aussie rom-com and Billy Bob Thornton’s latest directorial effort.
Here are my picks for the week, enjoy.
This week, see Marilyn Monroe in a different light as actors perform readings of her journals in the documentary Love, Marilyn. Very much a homage to the famous actress by filmmaker Liz Garbus (Bobby Fischer Against The World), this documentary does its best to explain why 51 years after her death, Marilyn Monroe still fascinates us today. Also this week, you can enjoy a hilarious Aussie rom-com and Billy Bob Thornton’s latest directorial effort.
Here are my picks for the week, enjoy.
Love, Marilyn
Starring Ellen Burnstyn, Lauren Bacall & Elizabeth Banks
Directed by Liz Garbus
Premieres Thursday 28th November, 8.30pm
Remote Record to you Planner here
The private life of one of the world’s most iconic actresses is explored in this documentary featuring actors and actresses - including Glenn Close, Adrien Brody, Paul Giamatti and Uma Thurman - who read from Marilyn’s journals and the memoirs of those who knew her well. The result is a surprisingly fresh take on a subject that’s been written and talked about ever since her tragic death, taking us behind the sexy, blonde bombshell facade to reveal a bright, vulnerable and ambitious young woman. Intelligent, sensitive and revealing; this is Marilyn as you've never seen her.
Starring Sarah Snook, Ryan Kwanten and Ryan Corr
Directed by Peter Templeman
Premieres Friday 29th November, 8.30pm
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True Blood’s Ryan Kwanten returns home to Australia for this charming romantic comedy about a young man who discovers he has testicular cancer and will soon be unable to have children. Desperate to breed, he has one month to find someone, anyone, to have his baby. It’s an interesting setup for a comedy about party hard 20-somethings, and it’s as funny as it’s poignant. This is another example of how good Aussies are at pulling off natural, warmhearted and charming comedy.
Starring Kevin Bacon, Robert Duvall, John Hurt & Billy Bob Thornton
Directed by Billy Bob Thornton
Premieres Saturday 30th November, 8.30pm
Remote Record to your Planner here
It’s been 12 years since Billy Bob Thornton has directed a film; it’s nice to see him back in action both in front and behind the camera. Jayne Mansfield’s Car, which is a rather misleading title, tells the story of Jim Caldwell, left to raise a young family on his own in 1940’s Alabama after his wife leaves him for an Englishman. 30 years later his ex wife is brought home to be buried by her English husband and step-kids. It’s awkward at first, but before long friendships formed in the most unlikely places and the two families work through their differences and similarities. It’s a slowly paced exploration of family dysfunction with quirky twists and turns all brought to life by its impressive cast.