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Three women use their newly formed sisterhood to fight against sexism, bad relationships and low self-esteem. Through embracing their wild adventures, they learn the secret to ultimate fulfillment.
Rating
R (for strong sexual content, nudity, language and drug use)
Director
Heather Graham
Studio
Momentum Pictures
Writer
Heather Graham
  • We could look back in 30 years at Half Magic and see it as Heather's "THX-1138". Except much funnier. Heather Graham took (likely some very intentional, others due to budget and novice status) risks with the form of what we think of as a movie and narrative. She put her 3 heroines in the center and kept them there, weaving them in and out, and came at the story from a female, truthful, honest, real, and extremely funny point of view. Life is typically messy, so, why not reflect that in the story? At the same time, her supporting cast was all very well developed. Her sex scenes in particular (good and bad) were written for a woman's appreciation, first. I'd say more, but, I don't want to give away some of the details to those who haven't seen it. (*cough* GPS)Her heroines as well as nearly everyone else had _AGENCY_. And there isn't a woman in the western world who hasn't met at least some of the men & women she portrays in real life.I'm not saying it's flawless in terms of it's construction. Considering she sticks her thumb completely in the eye of formulaic movie execs within the movie (just by trueing up to what is!), it wasn't going to be. She has probably annoyed "comfortable" industry people who, frankly, needed to be annoyed (see: #MeToo), but, if she had a cooperative mentor might have been able to tighten up the form in this one.... but if she lost any of the truth of the story that would have been a shame.It was Totally Fun to see several women I know in the crowd scenes, and to see the truth reflected in the "wow, I've had that conversation!" And laughing out loud at all the things we think but don't say, and giving the side-eye to what doesn't quite feel right... the payoff was Delicious.Yeah, some things would have been better with a bigger budget. But Graham didn't leave us wanting on Story or Character. Well done!
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  • Clearly a first effort but a respectable product that gives a somewhat raunchy view of bad relationships from a woman's point of view. Although I wished more actors and directors took chances, I really think this could have benefited from a more experienced hand. The topic could not be more timely with "Me Too" being in the spotlight and the writer, also Heather did hit on a few high notes. The big problem was that there are a few scenes that could alienate and make it unsuitable for all but a narrow 16 to 35 female demographic.I applaud her for the commitment but I see a lot of the "The Room" in this.
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  • I loved this movie! So relatable, I laughed so hard and cringed and screamed and even stood on my couch at one point. Basically a day in the life of Woman! I want all of my "girl squad" to see it so bad I might buy them the DVD!
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  • I laughed from relating, and from adoration, from feeling excruciating embarrassment for beloved character's, and gasped laughing from excruciating uncomfortablility and absolute loathing the vile villains. A female driven story with many of the frustrations and joys that come through that perspective. Poking fun at everyone, and celebrating the imperfect journey of building self-esteem for three delightfully kind women. So much talent. Beautiful and visceral visuals. Fantastic casting. Sharp performances. A carefully walked line of shrinking down the dreadful arguments most women can relate to from an hour, to 2-3 minute scenes each, and playing it off comedically, and cheekily. So adorable. Very sexy. Ladies night? Yes! Date night? Yes! (I can't speak for my husband, but I can say that he laughed). Bored and looking for something to amuse and empower? Here you go.
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  • Cute movie, and I hope that many more similar movies are made.It is about time that women who enjoy sex are portrayed as the real people they are instead of, In the words of a character from the movie, as 'sluts'.
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  • I thought it was great. I loved the evolution of these wonderful female characters.
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  • This was a great feel good movie that deals with a lot of shit women face daily. It was campy at times, for sure, but overall was a very enjoyable movie. As I watched, I wondered how many times Heather Graham had to put with with dudes like that in her real life. I was disappointed by some parts, like with the priest that I wish had more resolution, but overall it was a good movie. My wife and I really enjoyed watching it.
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  • Heather Graham at her best, its funny and surprisingly well made to be a low budget film, congratulations Heather, terrific job
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  • Finally a movie that is fun and from a woman's perspective!!!
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  • Half Magic succeeds with the help of Graham's stellar writing, commendable direction, Beatriz, Kinsey, D'Elia, and the rest of the cast's adherence to Graham's comedic and dramatic vision, prescient themes, and three inspiring central characters.
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  • The movie's honesty about how inured its characters have become to anything like straightforward desire is its greatest strength.
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  • Half Magic's final destination may ultimately feel a bit predictable, but the generosity displayed on both sides of the camera throughout makes it easy to look forward to whatever [Heather] Graham does next.
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  • Without saying much that is new or insightful about female friendship or insecurity, Half Magic is a perfectly nice, simplistic movie.
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  • This male critic is guessing the film will probably resonate more with women, but that doesn't mean men can't learn something and be entertained by it.
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  • Half Magic is very funny, and fully woke.
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