Natalie Portman Shines in "May December": A Comeback Performance

Natalie Portman, renowned for her roles in films like Black Swan and Jackie, is back with a bang in the upcoming Netflix movie, May December. Directed by Todd Haynes, this melodrama showcases Portman's exceptional acting skills and marks a potential comeback for the actress after her last feature film, Lucy in the Sky.

Exploring the Plot of May December

In May December, Portman portrays Elizabeth, an actress researching a scandalous past for a film role. She visits a couple, Gracie (played by Julianne Moore) and Joe (played by Charles Melton), who began their relationship when Gracie had an affair with Joe when he was just thirteen years old. As the story unfolds, May December takes the audience on a rollercoaster ride of dark humor and gripping moments, with Portman's performance shining through.

Natalie Portman's Outstanding Performance

Portman's portrayal of Elizabeth goes beyond the typical role of an actress. As she delves into Gracie's life, Elizabeth transforms into an investigative journalist, trying to uncover the truth. However, it is in the scenes where Elizabeth mimics Gracie that Portman truly captivates the audience. Critics have applauded Portman for her ability to convey the awkwardness of mimicry, particularly in one powerful monologue where she reads a letter from Gracie to the teenage boy involved in the affair.

Esther Zuckerman from The Daily Beast describes Portman's performance as a fabulous performance of a performance, highlighting how Portman gradually reveals Elizabeth's own struggles with reality. David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter praises an astonishing monologue delivered by Portman into a mirror, emphasizing that it demands to be seen. Ali Benzekri from Awards Watch commends Portman's range and complexity in portraying Elizabeth's overlapping emotions, noting that her work is divine in its unpredictability.

Oscar Buzz for Natalie Portman

Portman's remarkable performance in May December has sparked Oscar predictions and placed her as a strong contender for a Best Actress nomination. With previous Oscar wins and nominations under her belt, including a Best Actress win for Black Swan, Portman has proven herself to be a favorite among the Academy. Her ability to embody complex characters, such as Elizabeth in May December, further solidifies her chances of securing a nomination.

Moreover, the film's director, Todd Haynes, has a track record of guiding actors to Oscar nominations. He directed Julianne Moore to a Best Actress nomination for Far From Heaven and Cate Blanchett to a Best Supporting Actress nomination for I'm Not There. Haynes' expertise in bringing out exceptional performances from his actresses bodes well for Portman's chances of receiving recognition from the Academy.

The Academy's Affinity for Films about the Arts

The Academy has a history of appreciating films centered around the arts, including portrayals of actors, filmmakers, and other creatives. Several performers have received Oscar nominations for playing such roles. For instance, Ana de Armas garnered a nomination for her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in Blonde, while Cate Blanchett received a nomination for her role as a composer in Tár. Nicole Kidman, Andra Day, Viola Davis, Scarlett Johansson, and Renée Zellweger also earned nominations for playing performers in various films.

Given the Academy's inclination towards films about the arts and Portman's exceptional performance in May December, it is highly likely that she will join the ranks of actresses nominated for portraying performers.

Conclusion

Natalie Portman's return to the big screen in May December showcases her talent and versatility as an actress. With a captivating performance as Elizabeth, Portman brings depth and complexity to the character while seamlessly transitioning between reality and performance. As the buzz for the upcoming awards season grows, Portman's chances of securing a Best Actress nomination are promising, especially with the support of acclaimed director Todd Haynes. May December promises to be a film that keeps viewers engaged and leaves a lasting impression with Portman's exceptional performance at its core.