Half Magic

Half Magic is a 2018 comedy film that centers around three women striving for empowerment, self-confidence, and validation in a Hollywood landscape that often leaves them feeling sidelined and devalued. Heather Graham (The Hangover, Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me) not only stars in this film but also makes her directorial debut, leading a compelling cast that includes Angela Kinsey (The Office) and Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn Nine-Nine).

The film opens with the introduction of Honey (Heather Graham), a talented woman stuck in a demeaning role as a casting assistant. Honey's dreams of becoming a successful Hollywood writer face many obstacles due to her manipulative, womanizing boss (played by actor Chris D'Elia), who regularly casts her ideas aside. Throughout the movie, Honey grapples with personal issues related to her self-esteem, rooted in her religious upbringing that views sex and intimate desires as sinful. These self-imposed restrictions hinder her ability to express herself freely, in her professional work and personal relationships.

Eva (Angela Kinsey) plays a woman dealing with a brutal divorce, struggling to get over her adulterous husband, and battling with her deep-seated fear of being alone. For Eva, moving on represents a herculean task. The fear of being single forces her to stick around longer with her cheating husband than she should. As Eva tries to navigate through her failed marriage, she also comes face-to-face with the realities of aging, and the insecurities it often brings.

Candy (Stephanie Beatriz) is an aspiring actress who lacks belief in her own abilities and battles with an equally problematic relationship with her boyfriend who isn't emotionally available. In her quest to be self-sufficient and forge a meaningful career in the entertainment industry, Candy's under-confidence repeatedly gets in the way.

Despite these dispiriting situations, these three women find solace in one another. Not only do they share their struggles and fears but also support each other in the pursuit of their dreams. They stumble upon a Women's Empowerment seminar led by a dashing "life guru" (Johnny Knoxville) who helps them bolster their self-esteem. Inspired, they form a pact to dream, live, and love on their terms, propelling the story headlong into a comedic journey.

The crux of Half Magic lies in the exploration of female empowerment amidst a world that often undermines it. The movie unabashedly critiques Hollywood's sexism, chauvinism, and the double standards that continue to exist. It charges on as a light-hearted comedy, peppered with intense emotional beats offering audiences genuine insight into the plight of the characters. Each of the three protagonists embarks on their own nuanced, personal journey, which will shock, endear, and perhaps provide viewers with a sense of identification.

The film, while comedic in its approach, significantly touches on themes of self-discovery, heartbreak, and empowerment, drawing you into the narrative with its candid exploration of everyday obstacles women face. Factor in some sharp comic timing, and Half Magic becomes a noteworthy addition to the genre of female-led comedies.

With its potent mix of laughs and life lessons, Half Magic has been lauded for its forthrightness and Graham's confident hand at the helm. She handles the challenges of blending comedy and drama with surprising finesse, showcasing her talents not just as an actress but as a director too. The performances of Beatriz, Kinsey, and Graham herself are poignant and highly relatable, bringing authenticity and charm to the screen.

Rife with moments of humor, and fuelled by an unwavering bond of friendship, Half Magic serves as a comedic revelation of the struggles these women face in a man's world. The movie invites laughter even as it explores the harsh realities of navigating life and love in a world that's skewed against women. The message is potent and clear: empowerment comes from within, and every woman has the right to dictate her journey and destiny in life.

In conclusion, Half Magic invites its viewers to laugh, cry, and cheer alongside its leads, offering a much-needed perspective on women's empowerment, owning one's sexuality, and the importance of friendship. It's a roller coaster journey of self-discovery and growth that is both delightful and impactful. With its piquant humor and unflinching portrayal of its characters, Half Magic makes for an enjoyable watch.