In Todd Haynes’ latest Netflix drama, “May December,” the acclaimed filmmaker delves into the complex aftermath of a decades-old tabloid sex scandal. The narrative unfolds as Gracie Atherton-Yoo, portrayed by Julianne Moore, finds herself confronted by a famous actress, Elizabeth Berry (played by Natalie Portman), set to portray her in an upcoming film.
The film’s central character, Gracie, had gained notoriety for her involvement in a scandal where, at 36 years old, she was caught in a sexual relationship with Joe, a 13-year-old boy who worked with her at a pet store. The controversial relationship led to Gracie giving birth to her first child behind bars. Now, years later, she is living a quiet suburban life with Joe, played by Charles Melton, as they raise their three children together. The youngest child is on the verge of graduating high school.
“May December” draws loose inspiration from the Mary Kay Letourneau scandal of the late-1990s, exploring the repercussions of Gracie’s choices. Letourneau, a 34-year-old elementary school teacher, had a sexual relationship with her 12-year-old student, Vili Fualaau. The parallels between the film and Letourneau’s life are evident, from the age dynamics to the consequences of their controversial relationships.
Director Todd Haynes initially attempted to distance the film from Letourneau’s story, but the unavoidable similarities added depth to the narrative. Haynes acknowledges that while Gracie is a different character, the specificity of Letourneau’s experiences proved valuable. One notable detail is Gracie’s distinct voice, including a noticeable lisp, inspired by Letourneau’s unique way of speaking.
The film portrays Gracie as unapologetic about her life choices, a trait reminiscent of Letourneau’s public demeanor. Despite the controversies surrounding their relationships, both women display a certain level of confidence in their decisions.
A striking similarity between “May December” and Letourneau’s life is the dynamic between the older and younger children. In the film, Gracie has children with both Joe and her ex-husband, creating an intricate family structure. This mirrors Letourneau’s life, where she had children with her first husband, Steve Letourneau, and later with Fualaau.
As “May December” unfolds on Netflix, audiences are invited to explore the complexities of relationships, choices, and the enduring impact of scandal. Todd Haynes skillfully navigates the controversial subject matter, providing a thought-provoking cinematic experience that draws inspiration from real-life events while weaving a unique narrative.
