Norma Jean and Marilyn (1996)

This made-for-cable movie is based on the not particularly sanitized life of Marilyn Monroe and I understand that a longer, even less sanitized version exists.  The gimmick is that the lead role is split in two: Ashley Judd plays the needy, I'll-do-anything-to-succeed Norma Jean and Mira Sorvino plays the metamorphosed movie-star Marilyn, full of insecurities and drugs.  Even at the height of Marilyn's success, the Norma Jean persona appears to remind her that she is letting the side down.  Both actresses do well although neither completely conjures up the star. It's an interesting concept, but one that doesn't quite work.