Opened: November 23, 2011

Directed by: Simon Curtis

Starring: Michelle Williams, Kenneth Branagh, Eddie Redmayne, Emma Watson, Judi Dench, Dominic Cooper, Philip Jackson, Derek Jacobi, Toby Jones, Michael Kitchen, Julia Ormond, Simon Russell Beale, Dougray Scott, Pip Torrens, Geraldine Sommerville, Jim Carter & Zoë Wanamaker

Featuring a stunning performance from Michelle Williams, My Week with Marilyn will transport you back to the 1950s with the glitz and glamour of an icon.

Eager to get into the film industry, Colin Clark (Eddie Redmayne) joins Laurence Olivier’s (Kenneth Branagh) film company and becomes third assistant director on The Prince and the Showgirl. Olivier directs and stars alongside a troubled Marilyn Monroe (Williams) with whom he clashes.

The film takes a deep look into the instability of Monroe later in her career. Williams shows a vulnerability and can easily switch to the strong performer persona. Half the time you’ll forget you’re watching a performance and you’ll sympathize with her struggles.

She’s complemented by Branagh, who’s strong as ever, a lovesick Redmayne and a delightfully comforting Judi Dench.

Final say: Alluring and entertaining. ★★★★★