Planned Parenthood called Netflix’s movie Blonde “anti-abortion propaganda”.
As the 18-rated film is based on a novel by Joyce Carol Oates, it features many imagined scenes from its star’s life.
Blonde is not your typical biopic, and some critics argue it is “traumatic” viewing, blaming it for “exploiting” Monroe, highlighting the numerous scenes of sexual violence throughout.
A number of people have also criticised the movie’s portrayal of abortion. Blonde depicts Monroe having two illegal abortions against her will.
Having made its Netflix debut on Sept. 28, Andrew Dominick’s “Blonde” has been critically criticized for several reasons, primarily for its portrayal and fictionalization of Marilyn Monroe’s life, which has been described as exploitative. According to Planned Parenthood, the film contributes to anti-abortion propaganda, according to a statement released by the organization.
Monroe’s foetuses, which look like fully formed babies, speak to her in a scene widely shared and criticized on social media.
“You won’t hurt me this time, will you?” a foetus asks Monroe.
According to Planned Parenthood, the film has an “anti-abortion” tone.
Having overturned Roe v. Wade on June 24, the film industry has taken a closer look at its depictions of abortion. Planned Parenthood’s national director of arts and entertainment engagement, Caren Spruch, commented on the conversation, calling the portrayal potentially harmful.
“As film and TV shapes many people’s understanding of sexual and reproductive health, it’s critical these depictions accurately portray women’s real decisions and experiences. While abortion is safe, essential health care, anti-abortion zealots have long contributed to abortion stigma by using medically inaccurate descriptions of fetuses and pregnancy,” Spruch said in a statement shared with Variety. “Andrew Dominik’s new film, ‘Blonde,’ bolsters their message with a CGI-talking fetus, depicted to look like a fully-formed baby.”
“Planned Parenthood respects artistic license and freedom, however, false images only serve to reinforce misinformation and perpetuate stigma around sexual and reproductive health care. Every pregnancy outcome — especially abortion — should be portrayed sensitively, authentically, and accurately in the media,” Spruch added. “We still have much work to do ensure that everyone who has an abortion can see themselves onscreen. It is a shame that the creators of ‘Blonde’ chose to contribute to anti-abortion propaganda and stigmatize people’s health care decisions instead.”
