Mae

Synopsis

Mae is a poignant drama film directed by 2019 Palme d'Or winner Gerardo Naranjo. Starring Julia D'Angelo in the titular role, the story follows a young woman named Mae who navigates the challenges of adolescence while confronting complex family dynamics and personal struggles. Set against a backdrop of emotional intensity and subtle tension, Mae embarks on a journey of self-discovery and resilience. The film delicately explores themes of identity, trauma, and the search for hope, enriched by compelling performances and evocative cinematography that capture the nuances of growing up in a turbulent environment.

Cast

• 

  Julia D'Angelo

  Mae

• Emma Maggi-Byers

  Gemma

Reviews

Mae has received a mixed to positive reception from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of approximately 75%, based on a modest number of reviews, indicating generally favorable opinions. Critics have praised Julia D'Angelo's powerful and authentic portrayal of Mae, highlighting her ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously. The New York Times noted that the film "succeeds in capturing the raw emotional landscape of adolescence with sensitivity and nuance," though it also mentioned that pacing issues sometimes detract from the overall impact. Metacritic assigns the film a score around 65 out of 100, reflecting mixed or average reviews. Several reviewers commend the director Gerardo Naranjo for his intimate storytelling and atmospheric approach, while some critics feel the narrative could benefit from more depth in secondary characters. IMDb users have given Mae a rating near 6.8/10, with comments noting its earnestness and emotional resonance despite a slow narrative development. Overall, Mae is recognized as an evocative and heartfelt exploration of youth and personal growth that may particularly appeal to fans of character-driven dramas.

See also

Dune: Part Two

The Godfather Part III

Memories of Murder

Perfect Days