“The Seven Year Itch” (1955) is a romantic comedy film directed by Billy Wilder, featuring Marilyn Monroe in one of her most iconic roles. The film is adapted from George Axelrod’s play of the same name and explores themes of temptation, infidelity, and the complexities of marriage, all set against the backdrop of a summer in New York City.

Film Details:

• Title: The Seven Year Itch
• Release Year: 1955
• Genre: Romantic Comedy
• Director: Billy Wilder
• Screenplay: George Axelrod (based on his play)
• Cinematography: Charles Lang
• Production Company: 20th Century Fox
• Runtime: 105 minutes

Main Cast:

• Marilyn Monroe as The Girl
• Tom Ewell as Richard Sherman
• Evelyn Keyes as The Wife
• Robert Strauss as The Neighbor
• Sonny Tufts as The Man in the Movie
• Margaret Hayes as The Girl’s Friend

Plot Summary:

The story follows Richard Sherman (Ewell), a middle-aged man who finds himself home alone for the summer while his wife and son are away on vacation. With too much time on his hands, Richard becomes increasingly obsessed with the idea that he might be experiencing a midlife crisis. His thoughts lead him to entertain fantasies of infidelity, particularly involving his beautiful neighbor, The Girl (Monroe), who moves in across the hall.

As Richard’s daydreams about The Girl become more vivid, he imagines all sorts of romantic scenarios, reflecting his internal conflict between desire and loyalty. Monroe’s character, a charming and playful woman, embodies the fantasy that Richard is torn between pursuing and resisting. The film’s iconic scenes include the famous moment where Monroe stands over a subway grate, allowing her white dress to billow up around her, symbolizing temptation and allure.

Marilyn Monroe’s Role:

Monroe’s performance as The Girl is one of her most memorable and enduring roles, characterized by her trademark charm, humor, and vulnerability. The character represents the idealized fantasy of the “mysterious woman” that captivates Richard’s imagination. Monroe’s comedic timing and physicality shine throughout the film, making her a standout presence in every scene she occupies.

Themes:

• Temptation and Desire: The film explores the nature of temptation, particularly how it can manifest during a mundane life and the desire for something exciting and new.
• Marriage and Fidelity: At its core, the film questions the complexities of marriage, particularly the challenges couples face after years of being together, illustrated by Richard’s fantasies.
• Fantasy vs. Reality: Richard’s daydreams provide a contrast to his actual life, highlighting the difference between idealized perceptions and the realities of relationships.

Reception:

“The Seven Year Itch” was a commercial success and received generally positive reviews from critics. Monroe’s performance was particularly praised, reinforcing her status as a Hollywood icon. The film is celebrated for its clever writing, humor, and its blend of fantasy and reality, which resonates with audiences even today.

Legacy:

The film remains a classic of the romantic comedy genre and is often remembered for its iconic moments and sharp wit. Monroe’s portrayal of The Girl has left a lasting impact on popular culture, and the film is frequently cited as one of her best performances. “The Seven Year Itch” is not only a significant film in Monroe’s career but also a reflection of 1950s American attitudes toward love and relationships.

Fun Fact:

“The Seven Year Itch” is famous for its iconic scene with Monroe standing over the subway grate, which was filmed on location in New York City. The scene became a cultural landmark and is often referenced in various forms of media. Interestingly, during the filming, the air vent that blew up Monroe’s dress was so powerful that it caused her to struggle to maintain her composure, adding an element of spontaneity to the shot. The scene is still celebrated as one of the most memorable moments in cinematic history.

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