'May December': Unraveling Intimacy and Frenmity in a Darkly Elegant Drama

In 'May December,' one of Julianne Moore's characters makes a bold statement, declaring, 'Insecure people are dangerous.' And considering the narrative Todd Haynes brings to Cannes, it's evident that this drama, both amusing and elegant, is a darker shade of his previous work, 'Carol.'

The film, reminiscent of Highsmithian intimacy and malice, unfolds as an unacknowledged duel between two women, portrayed by Moore and Natalie Portman, who find themselves entangled in a potent frenemy at a crucial stage in their lives.

Moore takes on the role of Gracie Atherton-Yoo, a controlling and neurotic woman living in the affluent town of Calabasas, California. She runs a hobbypreneur sideline baking Martha Stewart-style cakes, her only venture apart from her husband's income.

Gracie's marriage with her much younger second husband, Joe (Charles Melton), is built on a scandalous past; she seduced Joe when he was just 13 years old, leading to a pregnancy, a brief jail term, and a permanent place on the sex offenders' register. However, the couple has weathered the storm and built a family, though not without its complications, especially with children from Gracie's first marriage.

The plot takes an intriguing turn when news breaks that Gracie's life is to be portrayed in a sensitive independent movie, and Elizabeth Berry (Natalie Portman), a respected Juilliard-educated actor, is set to play the lead. Elizabeth, eager to immerse herself in the role, becomes a fixture in the Atherton-Yoo household, studying Gracie's every detail to deliver an authentic portrayal.

The meta-doppelganger situation draws parallels to Julianne Moore's character in David Cronenberg's 'Maps to the Stars,' adding another layer of complexity to the narrative.

As Elizabeth delves deeper into the role, she forges a connection with Joe, sensing an opportunity to rescue him from his stagnant relationship with Gracie. The Method preparation adds a romantic dimension to their interactions, leading to a captivating exploration of relationships and personal dynamics.

While the film has its flaws, such as the omission of crucial details like Gracie's prison experience, Todd Haynes delivers 'May December' with cool, shrewd precision. Julianne Moore's portrayal of Gracie's dysfunctional queenliness is captivating, and Natalie Portman shines in a memorable scene where she imparts acting wisdom to Gracie's children's high school drama class, even delving into the authenticity of on-screen intimacy.