Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore have responded to the recent controversy surrounding the film May December, in which they star. Vili Fualaau, the ex-husband of Mary Kay Letourneau, expressed his offense at the film's portrayal. Portman and Moore both expressed their apologies to Fualaau, clarifying that the film is not a biopic but rather a fictional story inspired by real events. They emphasized that the characters in the film are not meant to represent Fualaau and Letourneau. The filmmakers have acknowledged that the story loosely inspired the project, but it is not a literal translation of their lives. The film explores the influence of their story on the culture and the emotional journey of the fictional characters portrayed by Moore and Charles Melton. Portman and Moore's responses highlight their respect for Fualaau's experience while also emphasizing the creative liberties taken in the storytelling process.
Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore Address Controversy
( Source: ew.com )
Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore have spoken out about the controversy surrounding the film May December. The ex-husband of Mary Kay Letourneau, Vili Fualaau, expressed his offense at the film's portrayal, claiming it was a ripoff of his original story. Portman and Moore apologize to Fualaau for any offense caused but clarify that the film is not meant to be a biopic.
They explain that while the story of Letourneau and Fualaau loosely inspired the film, it is a fictional story with its own characters. Portman emphasizes that the film is about fictional characters brought to life by Moore and Charles Melton, and it is not intended to be a literal translation of Letourneau and Fualaau's lives.
The Inspiration Behind May December
The filmmakers behind May December have acknowledged that the story of Mary Kay Letourneau and Vili Fualaau loosely inspired the project. However, they clarify that the film is not a direct retelling of their lives. Screenwriter Samy Burch explains that the story served as a jumping-off point and a way to explore the emotional impact of such a relationship.
The film delves into the cultural influence of Letourneau and Fualaau's story and how it shaped the world we grew up in. It aims to capture the essence of their experience while also creating a unique narrative with fictional characters portrayed by Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore.
Apologies and Clarifications
Both Portman and Moore express their apologies to Vili Fualaau for any offense caused by the film. They emphasize that it was not their intention to disrespect his experience or the real-life events that inspired the film.
Portman clarifies that the characters in the film are fictional and not meant to represent Fualaau and Letourneau. Moore adds that the film was always intended to be an original story, with the characters created from the page and brought to life by the actors.
The filmmakers acknowledge that the story of Letourneau and Fualaau served as the seed of inspiration for the film, but they took creative liberties to craft a unique narrative that resonated with them emotionally.