May December, a film directed by Todd Haynes, offering a fresh perspective on the flipped gender roles in cinema that Haynes is known for. The movie focuses on the theme of childhood trauma and sexual abuse, uniquely taking the approach in portraying a woman as the perpetrator, which deviates from the more common depiction of male offenders in headlining stories and films. Honestly, it's either this or Oppenheimer for my favorite film this year.
Natalie Portman’s character, Elizabeth who we follow throughout the movie, embodies a complex role where she blurs ethical boundaries to deeply understand Julianna Moore’s character for her movie depiction. Elizabeth's intense endeavor to comprehend the psyche of both Joe and Gracie involves immersing herself in their lives. Her character is driven to unravel the motivations behind the actions of an abuser, submitting herself to the depths of human nature and the rationale behind such destructive behavior.
The main antagonist, Gracie is a character who eventually reveals her profound trauma toward the end of the movie, which gives us insight on her perception to discern the right from wrong. The film touches on the broader impact of trauma on those around the victim, culminating in a powerful depiction of Gracie's denial of her own childhood experiences and how it shaped her. The film gives us some commentary how individuals in denial can prioritize their own needs, showcasing the disturbing lengths to which some people will go to appear harmless, despite their damaging actions.
The victim of it all, Joe, portrayed by Charles Melton, is the standout character in the movie representing an adult whose childhood was destroyed by abuse. Melton’s intense, truthful performance effectively conveys Joe's arrested development and child-like demeanor, highlighting the lasting impact of childhood trauma. Joe's struggle is very clear in his interactions, where he frequenetly finds himself oscillating between adult maturity and regressive child-like responses, reflecting his internal conflict and unresolved pain. His guarded nature, complimented with his breakdowns in longing for genuine connection, shows us the lasting effects of trauma on trust and vulnerability. Melton's performance makes Joe an understandable and tragic figure, embodying the search for healing and a reclaimed sense of self, lost to his abusive past. This portrayal adds a profound depth to the film, showcasing the resilience and complexity of a character grappling with the shadows of trauma.
May December has amazing pacing and an amazing narrative structure, allowing audiences to gradually uncover the psychological complexities at play. The film presents a chilling story of manipulation and the irreversible damage it can inflict on victims and those around them. The film stands out as an unsettling, yet brilliantly crafted movie, enhanced by a very haunting score. It tackles difficult subjects with sensitivity and depth, making it my standout film of the year.
