Released in 2002, May is a film that comes across as “smart”—maybe a little too smart for its own good. It is a methodical, slow-burn character driven story that leans heavily into a psychological build-up that some might find a bit too slow.

The film centers on May, a socially awkward young woman whose isolation drives her toward a breaking point. While the movie spends a significant amount of time on character development, it still feels like it comes up short.

May has a strong cast with Anna Faris and Jeremy Sisto in supporting roles but a standout performance from Angela Bettis as the main character is what carries the story. Initially, you might find yourself trying to like her in spite of her eccentric and weird behavior but as her grip on reality continues to slip, she becomes genuinely creepy and eventually, terrifying.

May has a moderate amount of blood and it is certainly used effectively. The film manages to be disturbing in specific scenes and the visual effects are solid. May isn’t a “great” film, but it is compelling enough. If you can push through a very slow first act, there is just enough interest and weirdness here to make it worth sticking around until the end.

If you liked May: You might find a similar feel in the 2009 movie, The Loved Ones. If you enjoy themes of social awkwardness taken to a deadly extreme.

Final Cut: A tragic, slow-moving story that survives because of a stellar lead performance, even if the script doesn’t quite cut it. Two stars out of four.

May is currently available on Shudder and AMC+.