Can You Ever Forgive Me

THE GIST: Unable to adapt to the new tastes of the public and the demands of publishing in general, once-lauded biographer Lee Israel has fallen on hard times. Desperate, she resorts to a seemingly harmless deception that allows her to make a good amount of money pretty quickly. She pays off all her debts and starts enjoying life a little, but how long can she keep it up before someone becomes suspicious?

Can You Ever Forgive Me was a total revelation to me and I consider it a real cinematic gem.

I adore Melissa McCarthy and always watch whatever she's in, but it's usually a comedy, so I was amazed at how talented she is as a dramatic actress as well. She's so good here, she was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Lead Actress.

The other amazing actor she plays off of is Richard E. Grant, who was also nominated for an Oscar, for Best Supporting Actor. The film also received a Best Screenplay Oscar nomination.

THE BOTTOM LINE: Based on true events, the story of what Lee Israel did is quite amazing. Wonderful performances sweeten the deal. I'm in!

Grade: 8