Share and Follow
It’s no secret that Hollywood can be extremely predatory, and was even more so in the ’40s, when there were few efforts to curb sexual assault. To illustrate the seedy underbelly of Hollywood, where women would often have to exchange sexual favors for roles, we watch in horror as a studio big wig rapes Marilyn.
We’re forced to watch as Mr. Z pulls Marilyn’s underwear down, thrusting offscreen while she cries. At what point does something intended to shine a light on an issue make the problem worse? This scene is utterly traumatizing for anyone who’s endured sexual advances or assaults they couldn’t speak out against.
As the door closes, we see a “President” plaque adorned on the wood. During the ’40s, Darryl F. Zanuck was a higher-up at 20th Century Fox: Monroe’s long-time employer. Though Zanuck wasn’t president, is this a coincidence? Unlikely. Zanuck’s alleged sexual abuse infamy was so well-known that there were allegedly tunnels from his office so that women could come and go without being seen (via Deadline). So, once again, the movie gives an abundance of power to a real predator.
If you or anyone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, help is available. Visit the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network website or contact RAINN’s National Helpline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
