Blonde Heat: The Sizzling Screen Career of Marilyn Monroe

There have been hundreds of books written about the late Marilyn Monroe, but few have been comparable to this filmography style book in terms of quality. Richard Buskin has thoroughly researched each of Monroe's films. It is a resource comparable to the website imdb.com because of the extensive cast listings for each film. In addition, Buskin has reviewed them and provided rare behind the scenes information. This includes some of the most rare early films including Scudda Hoo! Scudda Hay!, Dangerous Years, and a few screen tests. The book is filled with photographs as well. Finally, the book is divided into sections, each outlining that specific time in Monroe's life. These brief but effective markers serve as mini-biographies. Overall, this is a great resource for any Monroe fan.

"Blonde Heat" is enjoyable as a thorough appreciation of Marilyn Monroe's film career, an overview of the waning days of the Old Hollywood from the vantage point of Twentieth Century-Fox and a fun look at pop culture, 40s- and 50s-style.Of course, what's most important is the book's star, Marilyn, and Richard Buskin's research and interviews reveal the part of her legacy that's rarely, if ever, discussed-- her acting. The reader learns the origins of her unusual mannerisms and how and why her acting skills evolved. The book also traces her increasing assertiveness over the direction of her ultimately too-short film career.You don't have to have seen many of Marilyn's films to find this book entertaining. In fact, "Blonde Heat" should make you want to go out and rent all of her movies, even the ones that she had bit parts in!Bravo, Richard, for a job well done!

Film enthusiasts with a special affection for Marilyn Monroe won't want to miss Richard Buskin's Blonde Heart. It covers her screen career, providing a close-up examination of her achievements, talents, and progress as a screen actress and containing the complete credits, cast and story line for all her appearances. Black and white and color photos abound.

As cited by the previous reviewer, this book outlines and critques' Miss Monroe's career through her films. It is a well written book, and also provides the reader with numbered rating scale (stars) from 1 - 5; the number "5" being the highest of course. I have a large Monroe Library and this particular book is written and presented to the reader in a very unique fashion. Beautifully illustrated on every film that Monroe starred in from her minor roles through her most memorable ("Diamonds" "How to Marry A Millionaire" - "Seven Year Itch" - "Bus Stop" - "Prince & The Showgirl" - " Let's Make Love" - "The Misfits" to her last unfinished film, "Something's Gotta Give"). The reader will enjoy reading and perusing through this book. I'm very glad I bought this one!