May December

Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore wage war in this wickedly funny melodrama from director Todd Haynes (Carol). The title refers to the age gap between long-term couple Gracie (Moore) and Joe (Charles Melton). Decades ago, their relationship caused a tabloid scandal, as Gracie was 36, and Charles just 13. Gracie served jail time, and now the pair live a quiet life together in Georgia. But when film star Elizabeth (Portman) arrives to study Gracie ahead of playing her in a movie, the lives and personalities of actor and subject slowly intertwine. Taking a tone that is knowingly salacious and camp, Haynes has the cast dial up their performances, with Portman and Moore gamely mirroring each other. Meanwhile, Melton is a revelation as the man caught between them. As a result, May December recalls soap operas as much as it does cerebral art house films like Persona, and proves a watchable romantic drama with plenty of depth.