This past month Film Chest Media Group released a special-edition collector’s DVD set, BLONDE: THE MARILN STORIES. Our Gadi Elkon breaks down the DVD and treats us to a Marilyn question for Poppy Montgomery.

Included are two docudrama films featuring outstanding portrayals of Marilyn, Blonde (2001) a two-part, fictionalized biopic, and Marilyn and Me (1991), a dramatic feature; and Goodbye Norma Jean (1976), the first-ever exploitative biopic, originally deemed a questionable release due to its salacious nature. The set includes appearances by Marilyn Monroe, Mike Wallace, Susan Griffiths, Poppy Montgomery and Misty Rowe.

On top of those films there are two documentaries, footage from Marilyn’s first-ever TV appearance, and much more. The added 113 minutes of bonus material helps breakdown the legacy of Marilyn. Blonde is such a comprehensive compilation that many aspects of Norma Jean’s transformation into Monroe are highlighted. The collection also is a lovely look at the ladies who have portrayed Marilyn and those folks in her life. What really makes this collection stand-out is the concentration on Norma Jean and not her tragic death. I love how much more of a full perspective is unveiled in the 3 disc set.

The films both showcase the constant interest in the starlet and how her presence in pop culture is beyond iconic. The struggles on and off screen for Marilyn are presented in many forms with these films. The ability to gather a full view of Norma/Marilyn life is possible with the pure amount of material in the DVD set.

And for a special treat. I interviewed Poppy Montgomery for her latest feature film, CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM. During our chat I asked Poppy about her playing Marilyn in the 2001 biopic BLONDE.

The Marilyn portions begins at 5:08min mark.

Blonde: The Marilyn Stories, a revealing look at her iconic place in American pop culture, is presented with an aspect ratio of 4×3 and is available on DVD ($24.98).

DVD Specifics :

Blonde

Film Chest

Format: DVD

Discs: 3

Genre: Biopic, Drama & TV

Original Release: 1976 – 2001 (B&W/Color)

Not Rated/Norma Jean Rated R

Running Time: 474 Minutes

Language: English

Closed-Captioned

SRP: $24.98