A new book, The Marilyn Monroe Century, by Joshua John Miller and Mark Fortin, uncovers Marilyn Monroe's journey from Norma Jeane Dougherty to a Hollywood icon, highlighting her collaboration with photographer Bruno Bernard.
Bruno Bernard's Early Encounter
In 1945 on Sunset Boulevard, photographer Bruno Bernard noticed a teenage Norma Jeane Dougherty and invited her for a photo shoot. This marked the beginning of her transformation into Marilyn Monroe. Bernard, described by Fortin as “shockingly non-problematic,” became her confidant and played a pivotal role in developing her iconic persona.
Influence and Agency
Drawing from Bernard's diaries, the book presents Monroe not just as a victim of Hollywood exploitation but as an “architect of her own image.” Fortin and Miller argue that Monroe was savvy about her image and knew how to navigate the industry. “She knew exactly what she wanted and how to get there,” Fortin noted.
Hollywood and Exploitation
Marilyn's story is often seen through the lens of exploitation, but Miller and Fortin emphasize her agency. Despite pressures from figures like Johnny Hyde and Norman Brokaw, Monroe took control of her image, even rejecting certain roles and altering her appearance to suit her vision.
The Visual Legacy
The book features photographs by Bernard, including Monroe bandaging a German Shepherd in 1945 and posing as a schoolgirl in 1946. These images capture her early attempts to shape her narrative, showcasing her as an animal lover and a young woman searching for belonging.
As the authors explore Monroe's legacy, they argue that while Hollywood's wolves were ever-present, Monroe's story is one of both exploitation and self-invention. Her journey reflects her ability to craft an image that remains timeless.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lifestyle/lifestyle-news/marilyn-monroe-century-bruno-bernard-1236611009/
