SAM Deep Dives: The Rise of Hollywood with Dr. Wendy Haslem

Step into the golden age of Hollywood with Dr. Wendy Haslem (University of Melbourne) and enjoy an Archibald-inspired afternoon exploring cinema, celebrity culture and the making of an icon, followed by a classic film screening.

Spotlighting Marilyn Monroe as a defining figure of the era, Dr. Haslem will examine Hollywood’s transformation of actors into veritable stars, and how ideas of glamour, femininity and celebrity were constructed for the silver screen and consumed by audiences around the world.

After the talk, settle in for a screening of the sparkling 1953 musical comedy Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, starring Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell. Featuring lavish Technicolor, extravagant costumes and Monroe’s iconic performance of Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend, the film perfectly captures the stratospheric launch of one of the 20th century’s most enduring celebrity images.

Guests will be welcomed with a glass of prosecco on arrival, with bespoke cinema snacks served ahead of the film.

Your ticket includes:

• A glass of prosecco on arrival

• Seminar with Dr. Wendy Haslem (University of Melbourne)

• Screening of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953)

• Individual snack plates

Please note: This is an 18+ event

Event details:

Date + time: Sunday 11 October 2026, 2pm-4.30pm

Location: The Vault, 168R Maude Street, Shepparton

Price: $65 (non-members) | $55 (Friends of SAM members price)

Presented in partnership with the University of Melbourne and The Vault.