"Marilyn Monroe vs. Jayne Mansfield: The Rivalry and Legacy of Two Hollywood Blondes"
Strengths and Weaknesses of Marilyn Monroe and Jayne Mansfield
Marilyn Monroe
Strengths:
- **Unique Persona:** Monroe was an enigma, combining sex appeal with naivety in a way that was unparalleled[2].
- **Originality:** She was always herself, free of irony, and her depth came from her unique blend of traits[2].
- **Enduring Legacy:** Monroe's impact on Hollywood and popular culture is still felt today, with her being one of the most iconic stars of all time[1][2].
- **Versatility:** While often typecast, Monroe showed her range in films like "Some Like It Hot" and "The Misfits"[1].
Weaknesses:
- **Personal Struggles:** Monroe struggled with mental health issues, addiction, and a tumultuous personal life, which affected her career and overall well-being[1][4].
- **Limited Control Over Image:** Despite her iconic status, Monroe felt trapped by her public image and yearned for more serious acting roles[3].
Jayne Mansfield
Strengths:
- **Bold and Brazen:** Mansfield was known for pushing the boundaries of decency and was not afraid to be provocative[3].
- **Intelligence:** She had a high IQ (reported to be around 140-163) and was multilingual, playing the violin, piano, and viola[3].
- **Comedic Talent:** Mansfield excelled in comedic roles, particularly in films like "The Girl Can’t Help It" and "Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?"[1][3].
- **Publicity Savvy:** Mansfield was meticulous in planning her career moves and public image, often using her physical assets to gain attention[3].
Weaknesses:
- **Typecasting:** Mansfield was frequently typecast as a "dumb blonde," which limited her opportunities for more serious roles[1][3].
- **Comparison to Monroe:** Despite her efforts to differentiate herself, Mansfield was often compared to Monroe, which could be seen as a limitation to her own unique identity[1][2].
- **Personal Life Issues:** Mansfield's personal life was marred by multiple marriages, custody battles, and a tragic early death at the age of 34[3].
Movies and Notable Roles
Marilyn Monroe
- **"Niagara" (1953)**
- **"Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" (1953)**
- **"How to Marry a Millionaire" (1953)**
- **"The Seven Year Itch" (1955)**
- **"Some Like It Hot" (1959)**
- **"The Misfits" (1961)**
Jayne Mansfield
- **"The Girl Can’t Help It" (1956)**
- **"Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?" (1957)**
- **"The Wayward Bus" (1957)**
- **"Kiss Them for Me" (1957)**
- **"Rock Around the Clock" (1956)**
- **"Too Hot to Handle" (1960)**
Measurements and Physical Appearance
Marilyn Monroe
- **Height:** 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm)
- **Weight:** Around 120-130 pounds (54-59 kg)
- **Bust:** 37 inches (94 cm)
- **Waist:** 23 inches (58 cm)
- **Hips:** 37 inches (94 cm)
Jayne Mansfield
- **Height:** 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm)
- **Weight:** Around 130-140 pounds (59-64 kg)
- **Bust:** 40 inches (102 cm)
- **Waist:** 22 inches (56 cm)
- **Hips:** 37 inches (94 cm)
Conclusion
Marilyn Monroe and Jayne Mansfield were two distinct personalities who left their mark on Hollywood. While Monroe was an original and enduring icon, Mansfield was a bold and intelligent performer who often found herself in Monroe's shadow. Understanding their strengths, weaknesses, and the contexts of their careers provides a deeper appreciation for their contributions to the film industry and their lasting legacies.what do you think?
Citations:
[2] http://cicadacitylights.blogspot.com/2011/11/battle-of-blondes-round-one-marilyn.html
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VElNc1z47WE
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/MarilynMonroe/comments/vhbrou/marilyn_meets_jayne_mansfield_mm_doesnt_look/