Review of Notes on a Scandal (2006) by Sausages M — 10 Feb 2013
What is there to say about this film? Judi Dench is her always-magnificent self, but even more so absolutely inhabits the role of the acerbic Barbara, to the extent that you almost root for her even though she's quite the Iago.
Cate Blanchett puts in a good turn as the stunningly naive (given her age) Sheba, and Bill Nighy does what he always does.This is a drama bordering on black comedy based around the twin themes of obsession and betrayal, as demonstrated through various types of love- none of them seemingly convincing or satisfying (to the players, that is).
Of course in the end what we end up with is a delicious little story which may resonate with many more than they might expect. I have been purposefully vague, because if I wasn't I'd spoil things.
Hopefully it may make the more tabloid-minded think twice about their preconceptions surrounding this topic, but then they probably wouldn't be watching this, would they? One star deducted for lacking a 'filmic' atmosphere.
It felt rather more like a really good TV play than a film.
This review of Notes on a Scandal (2006) was written by Sausages M on 10 Feb 2013.
Notes on a Scandal has generally received very positive reviews.
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