A Surprising Role at 93
Ellen Burstyn, 93, received a Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Film Festival on Monday, where her 17-minute short film 'Flesh Impact' also had its world premiere. The film, directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal, features Burstyn as Marilyn Monroe at age 100, a concept Gyllenhaal proposed after being approached by luxury car company Genesis to create something for what would have been Monroe's 100th birthday in June.[S1]
Burstyn told the Associated Press that the idea sounded good to her. Although she never met Monroe, who died at 36, they shared a massage therapist who told stories about Monroe and lent Burstyn a book that had belonged to her, called 'The Thinking Body,' which contained old receipts. Burstyn noted that Monroe created her own persona, saying she was not what she presented herself to be.[S1]
Reflections on Monroe and a Changing Industry
Burstyn recalled seeing Monroe once in a nightclub, where Monroe nodded at her. She felt honored that Monroe recognized her early in her career. Gyllenhaal said she wanted to give Burstyn an opportunity to think about things in a new way, and the two found they shared a similar approach to their work, both interested in the depth of what is revealed.[S1]
Burstyn also reflected on how the industry has changed, noting that when she started, there were no women on set or behind the camera. She credited Gloria Steinem, who recently died, for helping shift consciousness. Burstyn is also appearing in Kornél Mundruczó's feature 'Place to Be' at the festival, and said she feels overwhelmed but grateful for her career, which she attributes to her training.[S1]
A Career of Accolades
Burstyn has won an Oscar for 'Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore,' a Tony, and two Emmys. Over more than 50 years, she has appeared in around 150 films and serves as co-president of The Actors Studio, occasionally teaching acting classes to continue the legacy of her mentor Lee Strasberg.[S1]
Festival director Alberto Barbera praised Burstyn's artistry, saying it illuminates pain and everyday resilience with dignity, irony, and courage, and remains a model of authenticity. Sitting with Gyllenhaal before the award, Burstyn wondered if her gown was too much, but her director assured her it was her day. Burstyn expressed happiness and gratitude for the award and for Gyllenhaal's film.[S1]
