Ana de Armas recently starred as Joi, the holographic AI projection in Denis Villeneuve’s Blade Runner 2049. Now she takes on a large and daring role as Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe in Andrew Dominik’s hallucinatory adaptation of Joyce Carol Oates’ 2000 novel Blonde.
De Armas spent four hours each day in the makeup chair to transform herself into Monroe throughout every stage of her life, from Norma Jeane Baker to the height of her fame.
Blonde
Ana de Armas knew she was taking a chance when she auditioned to play Marilyn Monroe in Blonde. Yet director Andrew Dominik quickly saw in her that the Cuban actress had what it takes to capture this iconic Hollywood icon.
The nearly three-hour film is based on Joyce Carol Oates’ 2000 novel, Reimagining the star’s turbulent childhood, complicated relationships and turbulent romantic life. De Armas says she has often reflected upon this story throughout her career.
De Armas began watching Monroe’s films during her time in Madrid to gain a better insight into the iconic star’s personality. She discovered that Norma Jeane (Monroe’s real name) was an insecure woman who often struggled with her public image.
Knives Out
Rian Johnson takes us around the galaxy in The Last Jedi, but returns to earthly confines of a mansion for Knives Out – an irreverent, wry tribute to classic murder mysteries with a contemporary spin. And as with all great whodunnit-themed cinema, it’s all the more satisfying for it.
De Armas portrays Marta Cabrera, the private nurse of crime writer Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer), with more than just her beauty. She’s an astute, wise, and self-assured actress who makes it clear she doesn’t have any soft spots for Thrombey or his family members.
Director Andrew Dominik first met de Armas to discuss the role, yet she had yet to be widely known in America despite her roles in Blade Runner 2049 and Knock Knock. It is clear that de Armas doesn’t take herself lightly when put in the spotlight; rather, she embraces it with grace and determination while never losing her cool.
No Time to Die
The actress is renowned for her roles in films such as Knives Out and No Time to Die. Additionally, she will star in Netflix’s upcoming film Blonde, which reimagines Marilyn Monroe’s life.
De Armas stars in the movie “Deception”, and its first trailer has just gone online. The clip, featuring Monroe amid a sea of cameras, offers an insight into its themes of fame and exploitation of women.
Director Andrew Dominik reported feeling the presence of Monroe while shooting No Time to Die, featuring de Armas as Paloma. When asked about her portrayal of Monroe on set, de Armas noted she wasn’t trying to emulate Monroe but rather capture her essence.
She sought to bring her own personality and journey into the role while conveying some of the late star’s feelings, journey, and insecurities. Though not perfect, this performance is impressive nonetheless – Dominik clearly saw potential in her and thought she would make an excellent actor. It’s easy to understand why Dominik thought so highly of her for the part.
Blade Runner 2049
Ana de Armas may not be a household name in Hollywood yet, but she’s rapidly ascending the ladder. She has appeared in several high-profile movies such as Blade Runner 2049 and Knives Out.
She’s also the star of Andrew Dominik’s biopic Blonde, in which she stars as Marilyn Monroe. This role marks the Cuban actress’ latest venture after roles in War Dogs, Knock Knock, and Hands of Stone.
She is an amazing actress with a knack for portraying strong, intelligent female characters. Her performances in Blade Runner 2049 and Knives Out have cemented her place as one of the industry’s most sought-after actors. With her stylish sense of fashion and natural ability to bring characters alive onscreen, she truly excels.