Megan McLachlan reviews Jacqueline Christy’s Magic Hour, a film that proves it’s never too late to get your spark back.
“Your spark is gone,” says Harriet’s husband Bob (Josh Stamberg) early on in the film Magic Hour. “My spark is fine.”
For the last 22 years, Harriet (the terrific Miriam Shor) has put her dreams on a shelf. At one time a budding filmmaker, she’s fallen into a rut, culminating on her wedding anniversary when her husband asks for a divorce rather than a trip to Paris.
Instead of refinancing her mortgage and going the conventional “adult” route of getting her life together, she takes out a loan to finish her education (“Fuck the house; I’m going to film school!”).
Magic Hour Highlights the Differences Between Male and Female Approaches to Direction
But Magic Hour is more than just a fish-out-of-water comedy where a late bloomer discovers herself: It sneaks in important commentary about male and female approaches to filmmaking and the power of kindness (David O. Russell could take a cue).
After Harriet scores a gig that could impact her career, a male director of photography Ted (Michael Panes) tries to run the show — and run the film into the ground — through imperialistic demands. In order to maintain control, she attempts to root out the problem (HIM!), but of course, the executive in charge refuses to give in to her demands. She can’t win. She has a distinct voice but they’re trying to snuff it out.
In a scene where an aging actor (the incredible Austin Pendleton) struggles with his lines, Harriet switches into a calming voice, reducing pressure to get an affecting monologue out of the actor, something Ted could never do. It reminds you that good directors don’t just have a creative vision for their film, but give their talent the space and support to unearth heartfelt performances.
Miriam Shor Shines as an Underdog, On and Off Screen
Not only is Magic Hour a celebration for underdogs and independent paths toward getting what you want, but it also recognizes the talent of Miriam Shor.
As Clarence highlighted in his Santa Barbara review of the film, this is an outstanding lead performance from the underrated actress, who’s been putting out great supporting work on TV series like Younger and in Academy Award-winning films like American Fiction. It’s never too late for any artist to bloom.
Magic Hour screens at the Miami Film Festival on Wednesday, April 9 and at other festivals later this year.
