Dakota Johnson unrecognisable as Marilyn Monroe in Maggie Gyllenhaal’s 'Flesh Impact'

Dakota Johnson stars as Marilyn Monroe in 'Flesh Impact', directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal, ahead of its Venice premiere

Dakota Johnson has been unveiled as Marilyn Monroe in the first official look at Flesh Impact, a new film directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal that reimagines the life of the Hollywood icon ahead of what would have been her 100th birthday.

The project was announced by automotive brand Genesis, which partnered with Gyllenhaal on the film.

According to a press release, Johnson portrays Monroe at the height of her fame, while Ellen Burstyn plays “a version of Marilyn the world never had a chance to see.”

In a statement, Gyllenhaal said she had long been interested in Monroe's story. “I’ve always been fascinated by Marilyn Monroe. So, when Genesis first came to me with the idea of a celebratory project for her centennial, I knew I wanted to work together on bringing this story to life.”

She added, “With ‘Flesh Impact,’ we showcase the timeless icon we know and love through a modern lens that reclaims her story.”

Speaking to Vanity Fair, Gyllenhaal admitted she initially questioned whether she was the right person to direct the film. “I thought, I don’t know if I’m the woman for this job. Let me just take a minute and see what comes up.”

The filmmaker also reflected on Monroe’s acting legacy, saying, “I find her acting so fascinating — weird and wild and very joyful, mixed with terribly upsetting all at once. I kind of wondered what would’ve happened if she’d had 60 years to herself. What might be different about the work that she would do now?”