May (2002) Review

When it comes to films that linger in your mind long after the credits roll, May (2002) is a prime candidate. Directed by Lucky McKee, this horror film dives into the psyche of its main character, offering a blend of unsettling themes and dark humor. If you're a collector of horror films, especially those that offer something a bit different from the usual slasher fare, May might just be the title you're missing.

Plot Summary

May revolves around its titular character, played by Angela Bettis, who is a socially awkward young woman with a troubled past. Her only friend growing up was a homemade doll encased in glass, serving as a metaphor for her isolation and desire for companionship. As an adult, May attempts to connect with those around her, including a mechanic named Adam and her co-worker Polly. However, her inability to connect in a conventional way leads her down a dark and twisted path.

The film is largely about May's journey to find friendship and love, but her attempts are marred by her inability to relate to others in a healthy manner. Instead, she resorts to more macabre methods, leading to a conclusion that is both shocking and strangely poignant.

Performances

Angela Bettis delivers a performance that is as memorable as it is sympathetic. She brings a level of nuance to May that makes her both pitiable and terrifying. Bettis captures May's awkwardness and vulnerability, making her character's descent into madness both believable and tragic. It's a role that could easily have been overacted, but Bettis' restraint and subtlety make May's psychological unraveling all the more impactful.

Jeremy Sisto and Anna Faris provide strong support as Adam and Polly, respectively. Sisto's portrayal of Adam as a laid-back, somewhat oblivious object of May's affection is spot on, while Faris brings a playful energy to her role that contrasts well with May's intensity. The supporting cast helps to flesh out the world May inhabits, making her interactions feel grounded even as the narrative veers into horror territory.

Direction and Craft

Lucky McKee's direction is confident and assured. He crafts a world that feels both familiar and unsettling, using a combination of bright, vibrant colors and shadowy, claustrophobic spaces to reflect May's mental state. The film's pacing is deliberate, allowing viewers to become fully immersed in May's world before the horror elements take hold.

The film's production design is noteworthy, particularly May's apartment, which is filled with dolls and other oddities that reflect her fractured psyche. The sound design also deserves mention, with its use of eerie music and unsettling sound effects that enhance the film's atmosphere.

Cinematography by Steve Yedlin, who later worked on films like Star Wars: The Last Jedi, is effective in capturing the film's dual nature. The camera work alternates between static shots that highlight May's isolation and dynamic, handheld sequences that mirror her emotional turmoil. It's a visual style that complements the story beautifully.

Collector's Verdict

As a collector, you know the pleasure of finding a film that offers something truly unique, and May fits that bill. The best format for this film is undoubtedly the DVD, as it includes a host of special features that provide insight into the film's production and themes. From commentary tracks to behind-the-scenes footage, these extras enhance the viewing experience and give collectors more to appreciate.

In terms of rarity, May is somewhat uncommon, especially in pristine condition. It's not the rarest title, but finding a copy with all the original inserts and in good shape can be a bit of a hunt. However, its uniqueness and the quality of the DVD release make it a worthwhile pursuit.

Overall, May is a must-have for horror enthusiasts. Its blend of psychological depth and horror elements makes it a standout in the genre, and the DVD's extras offer additional value. Whether you're a fan of character-driven stories or simply enjoy well-crafted horror, May is a film that deserves a place in your collection.