Review of Carol (1990) by Jason A — 29 Dec 2015
Cate Blanchett delivers a powerhouse performance, but that aside this film is a disappointment, neither incisive in its look at American social norms in the 1950s nor emotional when it needs to be. Rooney Mara is also unconvincing as Blanchett's love interest, sadly displaying the range she showed in Prometheus, although her's is far from the only underdeveloped character.
Blanchett's estranged husband Kyle Chandler's behaviour makes little sense, and considering the nods the film makes towards the paradox between society's need for public faces and what really want on in private, the length of time the romantic leads take to consummate their relationship is odd.
Todd Haynes' film is unquestionably well meaning and is a feast for the senses, and there are certainly both likeable and funny moments. A lesbian romance shot through a very Hollywood lens though was always going to struggle to convince.
This review of Carol (1990) was written by Jason A on 29 Dec 2015.
Carol has generally received positive reviews.
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