Merging Humor, Drama, Horror: a Unique Blend

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MOVIE REVIEW
May
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Genre: Drama, Horror
Year Released: 2002, 2023 Second Sight Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 33m
Director(s): Lucky Mckee
Writer(s): Lucky Mckee
Cast: Angela Bettis, Anna Faris, Jeremy Sisto, James Duval
Where To Watch: available July 24, 2023, pre-order here www.secondsightfilms.co.uk, or www.amazon.co.uk

RAVING REVIEW: Once in a while, a gem of a film emerges that garners instant appeal, and MAY is undoubtedly one such marvel. The story features May's intriguing persona, pulling viewers to engage superficially and at a far more profound emotional depth. Initially released over 20 years ago, this film still has a magical appeal that I can’t believe I’ve missed out on for all these years. I’ve seen the poster for years and always meant to watch it, but I never had until now. Please don’t make the same mistake I did!

MAY paints the picture of a unique individual, May (Angela Bettis), set apart by a troubled past that marks her as an outlier in society. She is the living emblem of those wrestling with societal norms, her isolation sprouting from a childhood overshadowed by judgemental peers and parents with peculiar tendencies. Under Lucky McKee's deft directorial hands, the movie traces May's transformation, ignited by past wounds, into a being shrouded in madness.

Born with an eye condition, May's journey is a tale of solitude, her sole comfort being a childhood doll she received as a gift. She struggles with being a loner while constantly yearning for human connections, and she works as a veterinary assistant to connect with her love for animals. She tries to kindle a romantic relationship with Adam (Jeremy Sisto) and build camaraderie with her co-worker Polly (Anna Faris.) However, when these relationships struggle, May's life veers off course.

MAY debuted in the United States in 2003, following a successful run at various film festivals. The applause and standing ovations it received emphasized the movie's need to reach a broader audience. MAY doesn't shy away from exposing the grim realities of isolation and the severe repercussions of defying societal norms. With the prevalence of digital interactions in today's world, the film emphasizes how isolation can birth emotional instability, which, in May's case, manifests as a troubled path forward.

MAY stands out for its successful fusion of multiple sub-genres, including drama, comedy, romance, and slasher. The doll May receives symbolizes May's psychological status, mirroring her descent into insanity as it gradually deteriorates.

Angela Bettis' portrayal of May is a significant highlight of the film. She navigates the standard clichés associated with traumatized characters and can show May’s spiral by becoming May with her entirety. The film manages to spring surprises despite treading the well-worn path of a socially shunned individual resorting to violence, courtesy of May's complex character and Bettis's commendable performance.

MAY draws attention to the harsh societal pressures faced by those deemed 'different.' MAY is a film that deserves attention. It presents a character who is more than just a traumatized individual and offers an engaging exploration of her life. McKee's film expertly blends the examination of human nature, reflections on loneliness, a quest for identity, and explicit violence. Elements of dark humor sprinkled throughout the film help alleviate the otherwise intense atmosphere.

Produced on a shoestring budget of just $50,000, MAY proves that a film's quality doesn't hinge on its budget but on the importance and creativity behind its ideas and the passion of its execution.

In conclusion, MAY warrants its status as a cult classic for its insightful take on a unique character's life, expertly blending drama, horror, and dark humor elements. Its innovative approach distinguishes it from the usual cinematic offerings, making it a must-watch for all film enthusiasts. So grab a friend, sit back, and enjoy this wild ride through the psychological and emotional landscape of a character who is, simply put, extraordinary.

Special Features
– A new audio commentary with Alexandra Heller-Nicholas
– Audio commentary with Director Lucky McKee, Cinematographer Steve Yedlin, Editor Chris Sivertson, and Actors Angela Bettis, Nichole Hiltz, and Bret Roberts
– Audio commentary with Director Lucky McKee, Editor Rian Johnson, Composer Jammes Luckett (formerly credited as Jaye Barnes Luckett), Production Designer Leslie Keel, and Craft Services guy Benji
– The Toymaker: a new interview with Director Lucky McKee
– Perfect Hands: a new interview with Actor Jeremy Sisto
– Blankety Blank: a new interview with Actor James Duval
– How to Execute a Murder: a new interview with Cinematographer Steve Yedlin
– Peeling Back the Layers: a new interview with Editor Rian Johnson
– Jack and Jill: a new interview with Editor Chris Sivertson
– In the Cut: a new interview with Editor Kevin Ford
– Blood, Gore, and Rock ‘n’ Roll: a new interview with Composer Jammes Luckett
– From Frankenstein to May: Miranda Corcoran on May
– Bits and Pieces: on the set of May

Limited Edition Contents
– Rigid slipcase with new artwork by Bella Grace
– 70-page book with new essays by Joseph Dwyer, Dr. Rachel Knightley, Mary Beth McAndrews, and Heather Wixson
– Six collectors' art cards

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[photo courtesy of SECOND SIGHT]