Cast
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Gretchen Mol
as Bettie Page
Chris Bauer
as Irving Klaw
Jared Harris
as John Willie
Sarah Paulson
as Bunny Yeager
Cara Seymour
as Maxie
David Strathairn
as Estes Kefauver
Lili Taylor
as Paula Klaw
John Cullum
as Preacher in Nashville
Matt McGrath
as Nervous Man
Austin Pendleton
as Teacher
Norman Reedus
as Billy Neal
Dallas Roberts
as Scotty
Victor Slezak
as Minister in Miami
Tara Subkoff
as June
Kevin Carroll
as Jerry Tibbs
Crew
Director
- Mary Harron
Writer
- Guinevere Turner
- Mary Harron
Producer
- Pamela Koffler
- Christine Vachon
- Katie Roumel
Reviews
talisencrw
Harron's biography, specializing on Page's early life, start in pin-ups and notoriety due to being the target for a Senate hearing on indecency and her subsequent born-again Christianity, is very enjoyable, and Gretchen Mol is great at portraying the inner sexiness, naivety and Southern charm that made the Nashville-born Page take the world by storm. Though it made the biopic more graceful by concentrating on the earlier times, it would have been more complete had it also included her later, troubled times, punctuated with brushes with the law and institutionalization for schizophrenia, as well as being greatly financially troubled due to not getting royalties for her years of photo-work and celebrity. Thankfully, late in life, that was rectified and she was able to live her last years decently and in happiness, dying of a heart attack at 85, three years after seeing Harron's work come to light, and her success come full circle...
Jan 18, 2016
JPV852
Well acted and directed bio-drama that most of the time feels pretty surface level in terms of Bettie Page, though Gretchen Mol did a good job in the role. **3.0/5**
Jul 30, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Notorious Bettie Page examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Mary Harron brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2005, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Notorious Bettie Page took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 117 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 290 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2005, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Notorious Bettie Page shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike One Small Hero, which focuses more on action than character development, The Notorious Bettie Page subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Strange Days and Desert Hearts explore similar territory, The Notorious Bettie Page stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 14, 2005
- Runtime: 1h 31m
- Budget: $90
- Revenue: $1,410,778
Where to Watch
