With a trifecta of stunning performances from Natalie Portman, Julianne Moore and Charles Melton, Todd Haynes effortlessly combines classical melodrama with contemporary preoccupations of celebrity and scandal in May December.

From the outside, Gracie (Julianne Moore) and Joe (Charles Melton) are the perfect suburban couple. That is, if you don’t take into account the fact that their relationship was a tabloid sensation 20 years ago. When Elizabeth (Natalie Portman), an actor, arrives at their home to research for a role in a film based on Gracie, it becomes clear that the couple’s relationship isn’t as strong as they’d like to believe. As the truth begins to unspool, and Elizabeth immerses herself in her role, it becomes clear that she’s not the only one acting.

What is the truth to Gracie and Joe’s relationship? And is Elizabeth’s presence complicating things even further?

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