'May December' is Unsettling, Thought-Provoking, and Beautifully Executed

Insecure people are very dangerous, aren’t they?

Based on true events, May December is a 2023 Netflix film. An actress shadows a notorious couple whose relationship was a major media scandal 20 years ago. While analyzing the couple, relationships buckle under the pressure as secrets and revelations arise.

May December lingers long after the credits, especially with the piercing final line. I researched the history of the story before my watch. It shocked me. The film delivers a thought-provoking and emotionally charged cinematic experience that explores the complexities of relationships, age dynamics, and the impact of Hollywood.

Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore bore outstanding performances. These two actresses have attained versatile acting careers. Both manifest chilling portrayals and subtle nuances in their countenance and behavior. Portman and Moore did an excellent job of conveying their character’s relationship.

They are equally astounding but it’s Portman who utterly steals the show with her remarkable talents. She embodies the complexities of her character. The way Portman delivers her monologue in the climax is incredible.

Charles Melton’s performance should not go unnoticed. He is already getting the rightful praise for best-supporting actor in awards season. Joe slowly realizes just how messed up the relationship is. The scene where he breaks down to Grace is a pivotal and well-acted emotional sequence.

Every character has an important part. They all have something to say about the situation. More credits include Chris Tenzis, Andrea Frankle, Gabriel Chung, Elizabeth Yu, and Cory Michael Smith.

Todd Haynes solidified the engrossing camera angles, tone, and cinematography throughout this heavy story. He deserves praise for how he embarked on the story, careful not to impose a bad message.

Haynes employs visual language, filming in a way that cements the tone of every frame. The camera remains still on the characters as they converse. And when there are close-ups, the movement is slow like a predator creeping up on you.

The pacing of the film is deliberate, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the characters' experiences and emotions. As the story challenges societal norms, May December stays with its audience, prompting reflection on the lasting impact of societal judgments.

Haynes skillfully navigates the delicate subject matter, exploring human relationships and emotions. Relationships are an important topic among communities. It’s okay to explore relationships just as long as they are safe and it’s suitable.

The story on which May December is based is disturbing enough. The film's central theme revolves around an unconventional relationship, and it is precisely this unconventional nature that makes the story both compelling and unsettling.

Some moments made me cringe or feel uncomfortable. The narrative prompts viewers to reflect on their own beliefs, contributing to the overall impact.

How far would you go to manifest a dark mind? While May December is an excellent example for actors shadowing topics, it’s up to you how far you want to take things. Elizabeth does some unlawful acts just to satisfy her needs.

I felt goosebumps when Moore delivered the final line about insecure people. That is one of the best final lines I have heard in cinema in a long time! I think it deserves an award. The film's mood is carefully crafted, immersing the audience in the characters' emotional journeys.

May December is not an explicit film but the subject matter will likely trigger audiences. The film is for mature audiences only. My advice is to research the events before you watch it. The film has been getting the rightful awards buzz for its performances, cinematography, and direction. Watch it on Netflix.