Ellen Burstyn, at 93, is portraying a 100-year-old Marilyn Monroe in the short film "Flesh Impact," which is set to premiere at the Venice Film Festival. The festival is also honoring Burstyn with the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement.
In an interview with The Associated Press, Burstyn, who never met Monroe, shared that she had a connection through a shared massage therapist who would recount stories about the late actress. The therapist also suggested Burstyn bore a resemblance to Monroe and lent her a book once owned by Monroe, containing personal items like old receipts.
Burstyn believes Monroe constructed her public persona, stating, "She created the whole concept of Marilyn Monroe and played it." Burstyn recalled a brief encounter in a nightclub where Monroe nodded at her, an interaction she found profoundly honoring early in her career.
The short film "Flesh Impact" originated from a proposal by Genesis, a luxury car company, to Amy Marentic, its chief marketing officer, to create something commemorating Monroe's 100th birthday. Director Maggie Gyllenhaal conceived the idea of Monroe at 100 undergoing an audition, describing it as one of the most vulnerable acts an actor can perform. Gyllenhaal immediately thought of Burstyn for the role.
Burstyn and Gyllenhaal discovered a shared approach to their work, focusing on revealing depth and a willingness to explore complex emotions. Burstyn emphasized this shared interest in working from a place of profound emotional engagement.
Reflecting on her career, Burstyn noted that while her criteria for choosing roles—seeking to be moved or challenged—has remained consistent, the presence of women on film sets has significantly increased since she began her career. She recalled a time when sets were almost entirely male, with women primarily limited to acting roles. Burstyn attributed this shift to growing awareness, mentioning Gloria Steinem in this context.
In addition to "Flesh Impact," Burstyn is also featured in Kornél Mundruczó's feature film "Place to Be," which is also screening at the festival. She expressed feeling "slightly overwhelmed" by the accolades, questioning her desertification before concluding that her training was essential to her career.
Burstyn's extensive career includes an Academy Award for "Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore," a Tony Award, and two Emmy Awards. With a filmography of around 150 films over more than 50 years, she currently serves as a co-president of The Actors Studio and occasionally teaches acting classes, continuing the legacy of her mentor, Lee Strasberg.
Festival director Alberto Barbera described Burstyn's artistry as a model of authenticity, highlighting her ability to illuminate pain and resilience with dignity, irony, and courage, while also noting her civic engagement within acting.
Burstyn, sitting with Gyllenhaal prior to receiving her award, expressed happiness and gratitude for the award and the opportunity to work on the unique film. She is being honored with the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the festival.