Before one could Google “how to get rich quick,” Lee Israel found herself in an ironic turn of events, edging the line between ethics and necessity in Can You Ever Forgive Me?
A change from her usual comedic roles, Melissa McCarthy becomes the workaholic and alcoholic Israel, struggling to make ends meet for her and her cat in 1991 New York City. It is evident from the get-go that Israel’s brief spot on the New York Time’s Best Seller’s List may have been the highlight of her life – as her bitterness and determination to isolate herself proves. A misanthropic, homosexual spinster, Israel’s only true companion is her feline friend.
That is, until the charismatic and flamboyant Jack Hock, played perfectly by Richard E. Grant, swaggers his way back into her acquaintance. The two birds of an obtuse feather flock together in a relationship that shouldn’t work, but does; and their interactions are an intoxicating blend of humor and grief.
As the story and drama develop, Israel becomes an increasingly complicated character who interacts with her world in a unique yet extremely relatable way. In parts, you cheer for her and in others, you want to slap her upside the head. It’s been a while since I’ve become utterly invested in a character so quickly, but Lee Israel had me wanting to be her best friend within the first five minutes of this film. Her grittiness, wit, and refusal to be a pushover is refreshingly authentic.
McCarthy’s performance is not only noteworthy for her personal career, but resolutely deserves Oscar recognition. The emotion in scenes is subtle yet powerful thanks to fantastic performances and director, David Lowery’s, decisive choices, acting as an effective compliment to the movie’s creative props, purposeful shots of New York, and set designs that form Israel’s bubble.
Although it does not have the happiest of endings, the story of Lee Israel is something that everyone should experience for, if nothing else, it proves that crime most definitely pays. At least, as long as you aren’t caught or can write a book about it.
— Review by Olivia M.
A 9/10 for one of the most painfully awkward dates in cinematic history when Lee doesn’t realize she’s being hit on.
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