Film Review – Magic Hour (2026)

      Magic Hour, 2026.

      Directed by Katie Aselton.

      Featuring Katie Aselton, Daveed Diggs, Susan Sullivan, D.J. ‘Shangela’ Pierce, Brad Garrett, Leonora Pitts, Sabryna Williams, Jo Lopez, and Martin DeLuca.

      SYNOPSIS:

      Erin and Charlie retreat to the desert to grapple with a surprising and challenging new chapter in their relationship. In the Joshua Tree desert, a devoted couple, Erin (Katie Aselton, who also co-wrote and directed), engages in a passionate yet ambiguous argument with her partner, Charlie (Daveed Diggs). In a playful moment, she seemingly pushes him off a cliff, hinting at his demise. However, the twist in Magic Hour (co-written with her husband Mark Duplass) is that Charlie is already deceased and appears to Erin in a supernatural form as they cling to the remaining moments of their life together. Even with a runtime of just 80 minutes, the film lacks an intriguing direction, dragging toward its predictable end that, without revealing too much, suggests that the codependent couple must learn to let go of each other.

      If some elements seem reminiscent of the Patrick Swayze/Demi Moore supernatural romance, Ghost, it’s because Katie Aselton does not shy away from this parallel, with Erin even referencing the film during a conversation with Charlie. This nod is meant as a tribute (especially given the sensual scene that follows), but it primarily serves to remind viewers that there are superior films that explore grief in a similar way. Many dialogues reflect on their relationship's past aspects, blending a search for closure with the hope that Charlie's spirit will not vanish abruptly or without cause.

      Flashbacks provide context about their relationship, emphasizing their codependence. One might expect this dynamic to persist in their present-day desert interactions, where Erin fervently awaits Charlie’s reappearance, which it somewhat does. The film adopts a meandering tone, featuring episodic gatherings with friends that don’t significantly contribute to the narrative or character development, as well as Erin's harsh and dismissive mother (Susan Sullivan), who, while offering some insights, doesn’t deliver anything particularly engaging.

      Despite the performances being commendable and attempting to uplift the scant material, audiences might find themselves more captivated by the stunning cinematography of the desert (thanks to Sarah Whelden) than the conversations between the couple. Katie Aselton excels at portraying pain and uncertainty regarding the future and the duration of Charlie’s presence. In contrast, Daveed Diggs adopts a demeanor of calm acceptance, sometimes cold but also guiding Erin through what must occur or humorously mentioning afterlife quirks (like an endless supply of bananas).

      It’s also commendable that the filmmaker makes an effort to provide the Hamilton alumni ample opportunities to showcase their singing talents, whether through original songs or renditions of "Happy Birthday." There’s a chance that some of this spontaneity emerged on set, with daily script and character adjustments throughout the filming process, giving Daveed Diggs's charm an authentic feel, as if stemming from a place of creative liberty.

      Nonetheless, the performances alone do not impart the depth that Magic Hour aims for in its examination of loss and moving forward. In fact, it soon becomes evident that there is little enchantment early on, and the experience risks becoming tiresome. The necessary outcomes are clear; the path to get there is unexciting and repetitive.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★

      Robert Kojder

      Originally published May 12, 2026. Updated May 11, 2026.