Magic Hour Review: Katie Aselton and Daveed Diggs Navigate Intricate Emotions

      Is it considered a twist when the narrative reveals key events around the 15-minute mark? The marketing for Katie Aselton’s Magic Hour suggests it might be. However, I would argue that the film does not treat it as such because understanding what transpired is crucial to grasping the present circumstances. The conflict between Erin (Aselton) and Charlie (Daveed Diggs) revolves not around betrayal but rather grief and ultimately acceptance.

      Co-written by Aselton and her husband Mark Duplass (echoing the themes of Duplass’s Blue Jay, directed by Alex Lehmann), the film begins with a video of Erin and Charlie at an amusement park, where she encourages him to confront his fear of heights on a Ferris wheel. Their playful interaction fills the screen, showcasing the strength of their love before the scene transitions to the letterbox framing of Joshua Tree.

      The couple arrives at their friend Marshall’s (Brad Garrett) desert retreat to address an unspecified issue that risks their relationship. It’s easy to speculate that the tension arises from Charlie’s infidelity; he tends to keep things light-hearted, while Erin is quick to question why the emotional burden appears to fall primarily on her. “She didn’t want this.” “They agreed to work through it.”

      Without yet fully understanding what remains a mystery, the tone of their argument can be somewhat perplexing—Erin oscillates between frustration with Charlie and moments of levity. He has a talent for pushing boundaries and an uncanny ability to restore the mood with humor. This is why Magic Hour needs to disclose its truth early; it doesn’t resonate unless Erin is given the space to express her anguish.

      I’ll play along, though. I won’t “spoil” the film even though it’s apparent at a glance and not something the story conceals. I’ll simply assert that what follows centers on Erin’s desperation to hold on tightly, even as she realizes the only way forward is to let go. Her friends (including Marshall, D.J. “Shangela” Pierce’s Ricky, and the other members of the drag quartet) offer support while her mother (Susan Sullivan) attempts to help.

      Ultimately, it falls to Erin alone. To shed the co-dependent dynamics of her marriage (humorously highlighted by Charlie in a video on one of their phones). To allow herself to feel excitement for the future, even if that means grappling with a deeper sadness about her current state. To express her anger towards Charlie despite his inability to change the reality they both face. Everything is truly within her control.

      The result is a remarkable showcase for Aselton. She has crafted an emotionally layered role designed to allow her to express herself fully, experiencing life’s ups and downs alongside another person while facing the harsh realities of fate. Erin is depicted encouraging Charlie to step outside his comfort zone, confronting heartbreaking news together while remaining hopeful about their bond, and learning to navigate the possibility of starting anew.

      As a director, Aselton also shines, skillfully handling the narrative's complexities of characters unaware of certain truths (even if we are not). She and cinematographer Sarah Whelden effectively utilize reflections to keep everyone in view, even when only Erin—and the audience—recognize their presence. This technique serves both the dramatic and comedic elements of their interactions.

      Diggs is excellent as well, playing a predominantly supporting role that allows Aselton to express her internal struggle both in his presence and absence. He challenges her to confront her situation while also offering comfort when the timing isn’t right. It’s an added benefit that Charlie is given moments to voice his own issues—this isn’t his ideal situation either—reinforcing their unwavering mutual affection.

      This is the principal reason Magic Hour succeeds: it is an indie two-hander that engages with familiar themes without feeling the need to introduce excessive drama beyond its premise. This is not a couple reconciling their flaws to move forward; it’s about a couple facing the reality that they must adapt despite not having any failings to address.

      This situation is undeniably more challenging to endure, knowing that their love could have lasted forever if only they were granted the time to validate it. Erin yearns to manifest that love regardless, fully aware that it may be an irrational desire—it’s easier to immerse oneself in the impossible than to confront the pain of reality. It is through her friends’ tough love and her mother’s misjudgments that she navigates her path to at least attempt to move forward.

      Magic Hour premieres in theaters on Friday, May 15.