Dakota Johnson’s reported portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in Maggie Gyllenhaal’s forthcoming film, “Flesh Impact”, has revived debate over whether any actress can successfully play the Hollywood icon. Experts say such casting can leave performers “set up to fail” because Monroe’s public image is so familiar and culturally powerful that audiences often judge portrayals against an idealised version of her.

Rather than presenting a conventional biopic, the film is said to explore Monroe beyond her recognisable appearance and public persona. Branding experts describe the reaction as part of a long-running pattern in which actresses portraying Monroe face intense scrutiny, reflecting the enduring commercial and cultural weight of her image.