The recently released film, May December, directed by Todd Haynes, has sparked discussion and reflection on the character known as "The Lisp." Portrayed by Julianne Moore, Gracie Atherton-Yoo embraces this exaggerated accent as a way to shield herself from the cacophony of life. It becomes a representation of her refusal to listen to uncomfortable truths.
Loosely inspired by the infamous Mary Kay Letourneau case, May December explores the story of Gracie Atherton-Yoo, a character based on Letourneau. In real life, Letourneau was a schoolteacher who engaged in a sexual relationship with her 13-year-old student. The film takes creative liberties, changing names, locations, and professions to present a fictionalized version of events.
The lisp is a fabricated element that adds to the unsettling atmosphere of the film. Although Letourneau did not have a distinct lisp, Haynes chose to incorporate this characteristic as a way to deepen Gracie's portrayal. It intensifies during moments of discomfort, highlighting Gracie's reluctance to confront the consequences of her actions.
Natalie Portman's character, Elizabeth Berry, plays a TV actress who takes on the role of Gracie for a film adaptation. Elizabeth's portrayal of the lisp becomes a caricature, missing the true complexity of Gracie's character. This intentional use of the lisp serves as a meta-commentary on the oversimplification of true stories by the media and society's fascination with crime.
May December challenges viewers to question their own involvement in the tabloid scandal narrative. Joe, Gracie's husband in the film, sums up the unsettling atmosphere by reflecting on the state of the world and feeling that "everything's so fucked up." The characters, as well as the audience, are implicated in their obsession with these stories.
The film explores the nuances of Gracie and Joe's relationship, the love they have for their children, and the internal conflicts they face. While inspired by the Letourneau-Fualaau case, May December does not aim to replicate it exactly. Instead, it offers a sideways approach that leaves the audience confused and uncomfortable.
