Carol review: An near-perfect film. Wonderful direction from Haynes, and two stunning performances from Blanchett and Mara.
Carol review
Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara star in Carol, an exquisite drama that plays as one of the headline galas at this year’s BFI London Film Festival.
Blanchett stars as the title character, a mother of one who is in the process of going through the breakdown of her marriage. During the build-up to Christmas, Carol meets department store worker Therese (Mara), and is almost instantly attracted to her. What follows is an intense, intoxicating story about their building relationship, and the effects that it has on them and the people all around them.
Carol review
As Carol battles to retain custody of her daughter, her attraction towards Therese grows, and when her young child is taken away from her for the holidays, she and Therese leave New York City and head across country, where the roads ahead are clear; where their love blossoms, and where choices have to be made.
Blanchett is on top form in this stunning motion picture from director Todd Haynes (I’m Not There, Far From Heaven). He and his long-time collaborator, cinematographer Ed Lachman employ a pastelled pallet for the look of the film, and use old-fashioned Super-16 to achieve a very washed-out, very grainy, vintage look to the picture. Lachman’s sweeping camera, and Haynes’ old school Hollywood filmmaking approach to the movie work perfectly, accentuated by the two powerful performances at the heart of the piece.
Carol review
Blanchett has never been better as the tormented Carol, an intoxicating performance as the financially secure, though depressed title character; a brave performance that is matched by the supremely marvelous Mara. The two actress’s chemistry is electric, and the film’s first-half, slow-burning approach intensifies as we lead into the second half, towards the glorious finale which is simply beautiful.
The film also boasts technical brilliant from Judy Becker’s amazing production design with 1950s New York City brought to life in perfect, stunning style, with Sandy Powell’s costumes are also gorgeous.
Carol is an excellent piece of filmmaking. A stunning motion-picture that harks back to old Hollywood with two outstanding performances from Blanchett and Mara. It’s a brave, raw love story that is beautiful, enchanting and utterly sublime. It’s perfect.
Carol review by Paul Heath, October 2015.
Carol plays at the BFI London Film Festival as the American Express Gala. It will be released in cinemas in the UK on November 27, and the US on November 20, 2016.
