A woman perturbed by her marriage life & the societal baggage it brings her, is wooed instantly as she gets to meet a young saleswoman. She pursues the girl & influences feelings in her so much so that they decide to end their current relationships and take a secret sojourn together. An unexpected turn of events puts an acid test to the nature of their relationship – Is it short-lived or would it last for ages?
Language:
English
Running Time:
118 min
Rating:
R
Release date:
15 January 2016
Directed by:
Todd Haynes
Produced by:
Elizabeth Karlsen
Stephen Woolley
Christine Vachon
Written by:
Phyllis Nagy
Based on:
The Price of Salt by
Patricia Highsmith
Starring:
Cate Blanchett
Rooney Mara
Sarah Paulson
Kyle Chandler
Jake Lacy
Cory Michael Smith
John Magaro
Carrie Brownstein
Music by:
Carter Burwell
Shot by:
Edward Lachman
Editing by:
Affonso Gonçalves
Distributed by:
StudioCanal UK
The Weinstein Company

What’s Hot

  • The efforts of screenplay writer Phillis Nagy, who adapts Patricia Highsmith’s novel (The Price of Salt) and translates it seamlessly to the screen, is evident with the slow yet poignant manner in which the tale unfolds. There are even unexpected twists which come as a bonus in an even otherwise soulful presentation.
  • Todd Haynes’ direction brings to screen the America of the 1950s pretty convincingly and he has been able to extract performances from his lead artistes that represent the times the story is set up in. He doesn’t spice the action up with high and low points and that makes the film all the more special.
  • When it comes to performances, not often do we get to feel some lady who shares screen-space with Cate Blanchett comes up trumps but that’s the case with Rooney Mara’s endearing portrayal of the meek, confused and passionate Therese Belivet. Cate, however, is not far behind and brings home the possessive, helpless & psychologically-torn Carol to perfection.
  • Carter Burwell‘s soundtrack is a haunting masterpiece and in company of Edward Lachman’s cinematography, it takes us into the minds of the lead players. Affonso Goncalves’ editing takes care of keeping us glued even as the duo take their time in deciding and later, make their move.
  • Considerable efforts put in by the Art/ Production design departments are evident in the sets (houses, hotel rooms, roads) & the costumes on display.

What’s Not

  • If there is one blur, it comes in the form of the title Carol. Given the emphasis on Therese and the ensuing impact the character creates, Carol & Therese may have been a better title!

Badges

Music
Direction
Acting

Verdict

Verdict Stamp

A tale that may have been outlandish for the times it represents, is masterfully crafted to look poetic instead! It is also backed by two performers who bowl you over with their proficient shows – much like what McConaughey and Leto did in Dallas Buyers Club!