Unveiling the Electrifying Performances of Julianne Moore and Natalie Portman in the Riveting Drama 'May December'
Experience the captivating performances of Julianne Moore and Natalie Portman in Netflix's 'May December' This complex drama showcases their incredible talent alongside Charles Melton in a must-watch film Don't miss out!
May December, the film that kicked off the 61st annual New York Film Festival, receives a 3-star rating from We movie critic Mara Reinstein.
On a rainy opening night of the 61st New York Film Festival, the artistic director at Lincoln Center introduced May December by declaring it the "funniest film" ever to commence the renowned event.
He may not have been entirely incorrect — previous opening night selections have included popular films like Gone Girl, Captain Phillips, and The Irishman. However, May December is not your typical mainstream comedy with a catchy soundtrack and tie-in merchandise. This captivating film delves into the complexities of relationships, showcasing outstanding performances by Julianne Moore and Natalie Portman. It explores these dynamics with an unconventional energy, sprinkling in moments of humor that are dark at their core.
Portman portrays Elizabeth Berry, a well-known actress trained at Juilliard, who stars in the hit TV series Norah's Ark. She has now ventured to Savannah, Georgia, to research a role for an indie film. Her task is to meet and closely observe Gracie Atherton-Yoo (played by Moore), a seemingly calm baker living in a beautiful home with her notably younger husband, Joe (Riverdale's Charles Melton), and their soon-to-be-graduating twins. What makes Gracie intriguing is her past as a '90s tabloid sensation, having been imprisoned for engaging in a sexual relationship with Joe when he was only 13, working at her pet store.
In response to the obvious question, Todd Haynes, the director of the film "Carol," has confirmed that the character is indeed inspired by the infamous teacher Mary Kay Letourneau. Just like Letourneau, Gracie and Joe, the characters in the film, also had children and got married (and separated) before Letourneau's passing in 2020. Despite facing occasional disturbing incidents of mail harassment, Gracie and Joe seem content with their domestic life in December. They are valued members of their community in the Southern region and even live close to Gracie's first husband and older son.
Elizabeth's Hollywood presence disrupts the status quo in her own unique way. Despite Gracie's initial skepticism, Elizabeth manages to persuade her that she will authentically and accurately depict their story. With Elizabeth's meticulous approach, it seems likely that she will focus on the couple's heartfelt love rather than the scandalous aspects.
However, even though Elizabeth tries to remain professional, she finds herself unable to resist the couple's intriguing dynamic. Gracie, who is emotionally intense and prone to bursts of tears, contrasts with the innocent and childlike demeanor of Joe, who is now 36 years old. Although Elizabeth takes diligent notes on Gracie's makeup routine and imitates her body language as part of her duty, she is also drawn to exploring the couple's intimate moments, such as their first encounter in a pet store stock room.
Francois Duhamel/Courtesy of Netflix
Despite its tense atmosphere, May December avoids relying on melodramatic plot twists. Elizabeth won't experience a sudden change of heart and return to Los Angeles, just as Gracie won't unexpectedly regret her life choices and abruptly terminate their arrangement. The involvement of money is implied but never explicitly mentioned.
The film successfully navigates various tonal directions without faltering. It occasionally takes on the tone of a thriller, particularly when Gracie goes hunting with a shotgun and consistently gives Elizabeth disdainful looks, considering that Elizabeth has served time in jail. At other moments, the film assumes the straightforward message of a drama focused on a family's resilience in the aftermath of a scandal. There is an abundance of compassion in the film, particularly for Joe, portrayed by Melton. When he tries marijuana for the first time, the consequences are surprisingly heartbreaking. Melton's vulnerability in these scenes is outstanding and he more than holds his own alongside the two Oscar winners.
Unsurprisingly, the humor in the film originates from its dark portrayal of Hollywood celebrity. And honestly, the outcomes are so impactful that the film could have delved deeper into satirizing this aspect. Elizabeth is acutely aware of her manipulative powers and this is humorously highlighted when she visits a local high school for a Q&A session. Here, she embarks on a monologue about filming sex scenes, both to provoke a response from a male student and perhaps to test her ability to seduce a younger guy. She convincingly feigns sincerity when a fan compliments her work. Despite eventually acknowledging that she has overstayed her welcome, she still attends the twins' graduation ceremony. However, it is Gracie who has the final say.
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Follow us on social media to keep up with the complex dynamic between these two women. May December refuses to offer a straightforward resolution, leaving the audience to interpret the authenticity of their relationship. The mirror serves as a metaphor for their introspection, allowing them to see themselves through each other's perspectives. However, beware of the potential pitfalls that lie within their complicated connection.
May December opens in select theaters November 17 and will be on Netflix December 1.
In this article
Julianne Moore
