Carol: Movie Review

Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara are absolutely fantastic in director Todd Haynes’ “Carol”. Both women deliver award-worthy performances without question. Does this mean that I am a fan of the film? Not quite. Although it is easily one of the most beautifully shot films of 2015 and features incredible performances, it is not for everyone. I am not the target audience for “Carol” but I still can appreciate the fine work on display.

“Carol” is an adaption of Patricia Highsmith’s novel “The Price of Salt”. Set in 1950’s New York, department-store clerk Therese Belivet (Mara) finds herself falling in love with Carol Aird (Blanchett), an older married woman who lives apart from her husband (Kyle Chandler). Both Therese and Carol find themselves in complicated relationships and though they come from different backgrounds, they two women wind up developing an unexpected love for each other.

I really wanted to like “Carol” and though I can see why so many will absolutely love it, I just didn’t. I found myself incredibly bored. I have no doubt that “Carol” will pick up plenty of award nominations and wins and many of them will be deserving, but for me there are just so many better selections in theaters this holiday season.

By: Marc Ferman