Michelle Williams covers the October 2011 issue of Vogue, photographed by Annie Leibovitz. The entire photo shoot is inspired by Michelle's upcoming movie, in which she plays the iconic Marilyn Monroe. 'My Week with Marilyn' hits US theaters on November 4. Scroll down for photos and interview excerpts.
On not being as guarded during interviews: “I feel like something has changed for me, but it’s a new change, so it’s going to be hard for me to describe. Maybe it has something to do with turning 30. I don’t feel as shy or nervous or self-conscious. I have more confidence that I can handle what life brings me. I don’t feel scared to have an idea and express it. I feel giddy about it because it’s a complete transformation. It’s like I’ve found my voice.”
On playing such an iconic figure: “As soon as I finished the script [for My Week with Marilyn], I knew that I wanted to do it, and then I spent six months trying to talk myself out of it. But I always knew that I never really had a choice. I’ve started to believe that you get the piece of material that you were ready for.”
“I wish that I could play her for the rest of my life,” says the actress.
On gaining weight to approximate Marilyn’s curves: “Unfortunately, it went right to my face. So at some point it became a question of, 'Do I want my face to look like Marilyn Monroe’s or my hips?' (She opted for the former and filled out the latter with foam padding.)
J.Crew cashmere cardigan and wool capris
Donna Karan dress
Equipment white shirt. Charvet silk scarf. Paul Smith Spectacles sunglasses.
Monique Lhuillier champagne satin dress.
Harry Winston diamond drop earrings and bracelet.
Michael Kors beaded halter dress.
Michael Kors shirt. Ralph Lauren Collection wool pencil skirt.
OMO Norma Kamali halter bra. MiH Jeans high-rise jeans.
Courtesy of Vogue
