When Does It Release In The UK?| Glamour UK

Publish date: 2024-07-16

Todd Haynes' May December, the dark psychological drama starring Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore that's sparked big viewer reaction after streaming on Netflix in the US, will officially land on Sky Cinema in the UK later this week.

The movie, which is loosely based on one of the 90s’ most disturbing tabloid stories, reimagined with tact for the awards crowd, examines the scandalous relationship between an older woman and a much younger man. The film premiered back in June 2023 at the Cannes Film Festival and culminated with an impressive eight-minute standing ovation. Early viewers and critics dubbed it Oscar-worthy, with knockout performances from Academy Award-winners Moore and Portman.

Having landed on screens for everyone else across the pond (and coming here in a matter of days), it's a film that has sparkled a huge reaction with fans labelling it as “unsettling and upsetting” – but also sharing that they were absolutely hooked.

And honestly, it's no surprise that it has fired up reviews, as the people attached to the movie are already known for bringing their A-game with each venture.

I mean, first, we have Academy-nominated Todd Haynes (the man behind flicks such as Carol, Far from Heaven and Dark Waters) helming the melodrama. Then it also stars Oscar winners Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore as its lead, which is a surefire way to say that the movie will be a hit for the average everyday movie-watcher.

Needless to say, having a firm foundation with its cast and crew is critical for May December, which takes on quite a serious and complex storyline. It is loosely based on the real-life story of former teacher Mary Kay Letourneau, who in 1997 pleaded guilty to two counts of felony second-degree rape of then 13-year-old student Vili Fualaau. The pair later went on to marry, and Mary Kay became a firm tabloid fixture.

So, what else do we know about the movie May December, which given its critical response and endless weird and wonderful comments on social media, has our expectations super high? Read on to find out more.

What is the plot of May December?

The official synopsis for the film reads: "Twenty years after their notorious tabloid romance gripped the nation, a married couple buckles under the pressure when an actress arrives to do research for a film about their past."

The movie takes place twenty years from when Gracie Atherton-Yu (Julianne) seduced then-underage Joe (Riverdale actor Charles Melton). Their twenty-year relationship became a national tabloid obsession, and she even served jail time for it.

Now, with their grown children about to head to college, a film is being made about their life. Hollywood actress Elizabeth Berry (Natalie), who is set to star as the lead in the movie, pays them a visit for research and to probe them more about their life.

However, the lines soon begin to blur between the two women, which leads to the once solid couple buckling under the face of pressure.

Who stars in May December?

Riverdale actor Charles Melton joins Julianne and Natalie.

The movie also stars Piper Curda, Elizabeth Yu as Mary Atherton-Yoo, Gabriel Chung as Charlie Atherton-Yoo, Cory Michael Smith, D.W. Moffett as Tom Atherton and Lawrence Arancio.

What are critics saying about May December?

May December currently holds an impressive 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. If that's not enough to sway you, here's more…

Time Out wrote: "The dance between the two women – both friendly and threatening – is compelling," while The Independent gushed: "May December is a film without frills or special effects. It's a closely focused character study, galvanised by the tremendous performances from Portman and Moore, which delves into areas more conventional dramas don't go near."

Screen International added: "[May December] offers sly stylistic play, together with a terrific pairing of two performers on great form – Natalie Portman and long-term Haynes lead Julianne Moore, engaged in brisk mirror play."

More recently, the Guardian wrote that Moore and Portman's performances “are sublime: both bracingly unsympathetic and wildly enjoyable.”

Elsewhere, viewers shared mixed reviews on X (formerly Twitter).

One called it “disgustingly cringy” and said her “skin was crawling” but then added she “LOVED it, give everyone an award.”

Another called it “a tough watch” while one user said she'd be thinking about the film for “the rest of the year and possibly into next year.”

One user shared that the film: “delves deep into childhood trauma, denial, & acceptance," noting that: “The screenplay & writing are pure brilliance and create a sense of moral dilemma not only for its characters, but us as the audience watching the film.”

Is there a trailer for May December?

An official trailer for May December was shared in November 2023. Watch below

What is the release date for May December?

Netflix acquired American streaming rights, with the movie dropping on on 1 December for US and Canada viewers. UK viewers will be able to watch May December on Sky Cinema from 8 December.