Dakota Johnson is set to portray Marilyn Monroe in an upcoming short film directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal. The 36-year-old actress takes on the role of the iconic 1950s Hollywood star in "Flesh Impact," a 17-minute production scheduled to premiere at the Venice Film Festival.
Gyllenhaal, 48, initially expressed concern about Johnson’s physical resemblance to Monroe, noting that the actress did not closely match the appearance of the late star. However, the director ultimately dismissed these worries, emphasizing the complex and often commercialized nature of Monroe’s image. “I don’t know that anyone even really knows what Marilyn looks like because she’s been so commodified,” Gyllenhaal remarked.
The film explores Monroe’s persona beyond her well-known public image, with Johnson’s portrayal aiming to capture the nuances of the legendary actress’s identity. This project marks a collaboration between Johnson and Gyllenhaal, who is also known for her work as an actress and filmmaker.
"Flesh Impact" will be among the varied lineup of films showcased at this year’s Venice Film Festival, drawing attention for its unique approach to biographical storytelling through a brief format. While details about the film’s plot and broader cast remain limited, the project adds to a growing list of contemporary works revisiting Monroe’s legacy in new contexts.
