Is Netflix’s biographical Marilyn Monroe film Blonde based on a book?

Blonde may be getting mixed reviews from critics, but it was still one of the most anticipated Netflix releases. It’s clear that’s definitely the case, as the film currently holds the number one spot in Netflix’s Top 10 movies list in the U.S.

The production is a fictional story on the life and career of ’50s and ’60s star Marilyn Monroe. The icon’s name is still talked about to this day, and her real-life popularity and personal struggles still pique people’s interests. The film explores the split between her public and private selves – from her volatile childhood as Norma Jeane, through her rise to stardom and her famous romantic entanglements.

Blonde stars the very talented Ana de Armas as Marilyn Monroe. Joining her onscreen are actors Adrien Brody as The Playwright, Bobby Cannavale as The Ex-Athlete, Julianne Nicholson as Gladys, Caspar Phillipson as The President, Sara Paxton as Miss Flynn, among others.

The biographical film was written and directed by Andrew Dominik. Where did he get the inspiration from? Is the tale based on a novel?

Is Netflix’s Blonde based on a book?

Yes, the Netflix film Blonde is based on a book. Author Joyce Carol Oates wrote the novel of the same name in 2000. The bestselling work is the same as the movie, a fictionalized take on the actress’ life.

The author has insisted her story about the famous star is a work of fiction and should not be considered a biography. The film has a long run time, and the book will also take time to get through, coming in at over 700 pages! The novel by Oates was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in 2001.

Did you know the film was based on a book? Will you be reading it? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Blonde is now streaming on Netflix.