The Misfits

When he married her in 1956, playwright Arthur Miller was convinced that sexy superstar Marilyn Monroe was more than just curves and carnal appeal; so he set out to create a role that would showcase her untapped acting potential. The result is 1961's gorgeous black-and-white The Misfits, helmed by the venerable John Huston, who rounded up a terrific cast to tell the story of the titular bunch—all outsiders in one way or another—who come together through happenstance. In addition to Monroe, who plays disillusioned divorcée Roslyn, the film features Clark Gable as Gay, an aging cowboy with whom Roslyn falls in love; Eli Wallach as Guido, a heartbroken widower; and Montgomery Clift as Perce, an over-the-hill rodeo rider. Roslyn initially thrives in their company, until she learns of the real motive behind a plan to ride into the desert to round up a herd of wild mustangs. The movie's backstory gained as much attention as the film itself, with the stars' assorted addictions and other problems taking their toll: within a year of its release, Miller and Monroe would divorce, Gable would suffer a fatal heart attack, and the celebrated blond bombshell would die of a drug overdose. A sad story in more ways than one, The Misfits—making a handsome Blu-ray debut—is recommended. (B. Gibron)