Marilyn Monroe

A unique retrospective celebrating 100 years of legend

From 8 April to 26 July 2026, the Cinémathèque Française is hosting a major exhibition dedicated to Marilyn Monroe, marking the centenary of her birth. Far from the clichés that shaped her public image, the exhibition highlights the artist behind the icon, retracing a career marked by more than thirty films and a formidable commitment to her craft. Photographs, film clips, iconic objects and rare archives make up an immersive journey that places Marilyn back in the vibrant context of Hollywood studios.

Rediscovering the actress behind the myth

This exhibition offers a fresh look at the actress, who was often underestimated due to the sexism of her time and media coverage focused on her private life. Here, her performances, technique and ability to create comic and dramatic roles are at the heart of the narrative. By questioning the multiplicity of fictional narratives surrounding Marilyn Monroe, the Cinémathèque invites you to look beyond the legends to understand how she built, sometimes against the studio system, a strong and modern artistic identity.

A cultural immersion in the making of an icon

Thanks to its rich scenography, the exhibition immerses you in the flamboyant aesthetic of 1950s America: portraits by great photographers, iconic costumes, advertising documents and contemporary installations bear witness to Marilyn's lasting impact on popular culture. This experience offers a rare opportunity to understand the woman, the actress and the star, while discovering the mechanisms that transformed her image into a universal myth. A must-see for film buffs and lovers of culture and the history of Hollywood glamour.

Even more exhibitions in Paris Region.