In the latest cinematic venture, Julianne Moore takes on a role that delves into the controversial and intriguing story of May December. Set to explore a relationship that defies societal norms, Moore portrays a woman whose connection with her husband began when she was 36 and he was just 13. However, this isn’t your typical scandalous narrative; it’s a dramedy directed by Todd Haynes, infused with unexpected humor.
“The film is a lot of fun,” Moore shared with USA Today. She acknowledges that while there may be uncomfortable moments, the movie remains engaging. Co-starring Natalie Portman as an actress shadowing Moore for a film about the unconventional origin of her marriage, May December takes a satirical approach to explore themes of trauma, power dynamics, and Hollywood culture.
Portman, discussing the film’s ethical considerations, asks, “Are we endorsing it somehow? Are we celebrating it somehow?” These questions are at the core of the movie, questioning the responsibility of storytelling in such complex situations.
The inspiration behind May December is the infamous Mary Kay Letourneau case. Letourneau, a teacher, became entangled in a scandalous affair with her 13-year-old student, Vili Fualaau, resulting in imprisonment and a controversial marriage. The film navigates this real-life saga with a mix of deadpan satire, highlighting the blurred lines between love, legality, and societal expectations.
As the narrative unfolds, May December introduces Gracie (Moore) and Joe (Charles Melton), long-married parents with a unique backstory. Gracie’s illicit affair with the much-younger Joe began in a pet store, eventually leading to a marriage with its own set of challenges.
The film examines the aftermath of Letourneau’s arrest, her time in prison, and the birth of her child with Fualaau. While portraying the complexity of the real-life events, May December takes creative liberties to present a thought-provoking and ambiguous ending.
In a surprising turn of events, May December finds parallels with the real-life story, as Fualaau stood by Letourneau’s side during her battle with cancer before her passing in 2020. Despite their divorce, the film hints at the enduring love between the characters inspired by the Letourneau-Fualaau saga.
As the movie concludes on an inhale, leaving the fate of the characters hanging, audiences are left to ponder the intricacies of love, relationships, and the unconventional paths life can take. May December is set to challenge perceptions and spark conversations around the fine line between satire and the delicate portrayal of real-life controversies.