Marilyn Monroe

Eyecon

By Stephen Doig

Stairway To Nowhere

Pastel on board

Image size approx size: 30 x 65cm

The Seven Year Itch (1955) is one of Marilyn Monroe's most iconic films, and her performance in it is legendary. Directed by Billy Wilder, the film is a comedy about a man, played by Tom Ewell, who is tempted to cheat on his wife while she's away on vacation. Monroe plays the character of "The Girl," an unnamed woman who lives in the apartment above Ewell's character. She becomes the object of his fantasies and desires.

Monroe's portrayal of The Girl is classic—she's both innocent and sensual, embodying the playful, carefree image that she became famous for. The most famous scene from the film features Monroe standing over a subway grate, with her white dress blowing up in the air. This moment has since become one of the most iconic images in film history.

Monroe's performance is a perfect balance of charm, humour, and vulnerability. Though her character archetype, her nuanced performance shows that she was much more than just a pretty face. She brought depth to her roles, and in The Seven Year Itch, it’s easy to see why she captivated audiences with her charisma.