Michelle Williams is receiving praise for her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in new film My Week With Marilyn, creating Oscar buzz.

Betsy Sharky of the LA Times writes, "It's hard to imagine a more unforgettable Monroe than the one Williams has given us -- except for the original, of course."

U.K. website The Week writes, "MICHELLE WILLIAMS has kicked off this year's Oscars race, thanks to her turn as the ultimate Hollywood star Marilyn Monroe."

The British-based film, directed by Simon Curtis, is said to focus on the week that the 1950's symbol spent exploring British culture with another man, after what is supposed to be a honeymoon with her husband.

Williams, who is said to have researched Monroe for 6 months in preparation for her new role, was up against other Hollywood A-listers including Kate Hudson before ultimately scoring the role.

Renowned film critic Roger Ebert shared his thoughts on Williams' performance, saying: "We're probably looking at one of this year's Oscar nominees."

Follow us

When asked about her decision to accept the challenging role, The Brokeback Mountain star tells Today, "It was the hardest thing I've ever done...Marilyn Monroe was a character that she played so beautifully and so well that you could barely tell."

The film which is expected to be a global blockbuster hit after opening in the U.S. this week, is evidence that the world's fascination with Norma Jeanne Baker (as she was originally known) is still very much alive.

Asked about the widespread fascination with Monroe, Williams said, "She contained multitudes and I think that's what makes her such an enduring icon."