The Seven Year Itch (1955)

Artwork for DVD Release

Icon seems to be overused, and it is.  And myth hints at a bit of nonexistence, which does not apply here.  But it comes as no surprise that when you watch, or even just hear the name Marilyn Monroe, there's a bit of mythos that slips through, even if you've never watched any of her films.

Although forgettable for cinematic instances, minus the famous dress instance (which as a side-note, is attributable completely to a publicity shot, since no full establishing shot is visible in the film proper), the film exudes the sort of brilliant fine line dancing exhibited by Marilyn.  Always prancing in the fine line between sultriness and innocence, sexy and next door.  Always making you wonder whether she's playing a fool, or fooling you into playing along.

And that's brilliant.

The plot is simple, and explained in the four words of the title.  The structure of the film itself is mostly steadfast to what would have been seen in the play the film is based on, at least in structure and visual impasse.

Publicity Photo for Theatrical Release

The script is good, but the main character, played neurotically by Tom Ewell, seems forced at times, although that might be a characterization more than a flaw in acting, although knowing that Marilyn was forced to shoot this film under contract and against her wishes, it makes one wonder is the same is true for Ewell.   Regardless, occasionally a glimpse of brilliance comes through, and that makes the film a lot of fun to watch.

As for Marilyn's acting, it's impossible to not be awashed by the legend of Marilyn, even if her character is a simpler, more "girl next door" person compared to the actress playing the part.  And she's just sheer joy to watch, even in the most pedantic and shallow roles.


Apart from Marilyn's sheer and utter sultriness, not even an image (just a thought, a sexy joi de vivre), it's hard to think of any other indelible images that have stuck true to my mind a week after viewing the film, and that's a shame.

Publicity Photo for Theatrical Release

The structure of the film is off, and sometimes feels too forced and unnatural. 

The ending comes too abruptly and almost against type.  The film seems to be moving in a specific direction, towards a determined outcome in narrative and theme, even four minutes before the film is over, then suddenly in the last two minutes...KAPOW!  The credits roll and you're left to ponder.  Was is the censorship boards at the studio, in society, in government.  Something, because ultimately, not having read the original play, I'm left to wonder if the jauntiness is done on purpose or forced in post-production.

Rent this film if you can, Marilyn is worth it, and you might not watch it more than once or twice.  If you're a fan though, buy it on Blu-ray, the colors are truly amazing.