Rated R | 107 mins.
Directed by Marielle Heller
Starring Melissa McCarthy, Richard E. Grant
Can You Ever Forgive Me? is based on Israel's autobiography of the same name. We follow the lowest point in her life throughout the film. A failed author and cat lady who lives by herself in New York City. No friends, no family. Completely alone. No one wants to buy her biographies anymore and she's living in poverty until one day she finds an original letter written by Fanny Brice. She immediately sells it, which then inspires her to create and forge hundreds of other letters that she can sell to make a living.
What carries the film from beginning to end are the standout performances. It's no secret that Melissa McCarthy has talent. So much so that she's been nominated for an Oscar for her breakout performance in Bridesmaids. A comedic role, which are very rarely acknowledged on Oscar night. Come 2019 Academy Awards season, McCarthy will almost definitely be up for another acting award, but for a dramatic role.
McCarthy's counterpart, Richard E. Grant, is also almost a guaranteed lock for a Best Actor in a Supporting Role. He'a already won a couple of awards and is awaiting to see if he'll get a bunch more, including a Golden Globe and a Critic's Choice award. His take as Jack Hock, Israel's friend and helper, is the most unforgettable piece of the film. Watching his journey parallel to Israel's is intriguing, but it's also heartbreaking.
The acting in Forgive Me? are reason enough to not miss it. It's both McCarthy and Grant at their best. It's also a safe bet to see this film get a Best Adapted Screenplay Oscar nomination in February. ★★★★
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