CAROL (2015)

Summary:

Set in 1950s New York, Carol tells the story of a forbidden love affair between an aspiring female photographer and an older, sophisticated woman navigating a difficult divorce. Based on Patricia Highsmith's groundbreaking novel "The Price of Salt," the film explores themes of societal expectations, identity, and the courage required to pursue authentic love in an era of strict social conventions.

The movie delicately portrays the intense emotional connection and burgeoning romance between the two women, highlighting the challenges and risks they face in a conservative society. It's a poignant exploration of desire, sacrifice, and the search for personal freedom.

Keywords: Carol, 2015, Cate Blanchett, Rooney Mara, Romance, Drama, LGBTQ+.

Plot:

Therese Belivet, a young aspiring photographer working at a Manhattan department store during Christmas, encounters Carol Aird, an elegant and enigmatic woman shopping for a doll for her daughter. An immediate and profound connection sparks between them. Carol, in the midst of a contentious divorce from her husband Harge, invites Therese for lunch, initiating a secretive relationship.

As their bond deepens, they embark on a road trip across the country, further exploring their mutual attraction and feelings. However, Harge, suspicious of Carol's past relationship with her friend Abby and her growing intimacy with Therese, hires a private investigator. The investigator gathers incriminating evidence of Carol and Therese's affair, which Harge intends to use in court to gain sole custody of their daughter, Rindy, citing a "morality clause."

Faced with the devastating prospect of losing Rindy, Carol makes the agonizing decision to separate from Therese and agree to Harge's terms, including therapy and supervised visits, rather than fighting the custody battle and exposing Rindy to public scandal. This choice leaves both women heartbroken. Therese, now pursuing her photography career, eventually reconnects with Carol, who, having asserted her autonomy in the divorce settlement, subtly offers a renewed chance for their relationship. The film concludes with an ambiguous yet hopeful gaze, suggesting the enduring power of their connection.

Cast (Lead Roles):

• Cate Blanchett as Carol Aird
• Rooney Mara as Therese Belivet
• Kyle Chandler as Harge Aird
• Sarah Paulson as Abby Gerhard
• Jake Lacy as Richard Semco

Crew:

• Director: Todd Haynes
• Screenwriter: Phyllis Nagy
• Producers: Elizabeth Karlsen, Christine Vachon, Stephen Woolley
• Cinematography: Edward Lachman
• Editor: Affonso Gonçalves
• Music: Carter Burwell

Release Info:

• Original Release Date: November 20, 2015 (USA)
• Language: English
• Genre: Romance, Drama
• Running Time: 118 minutes
• Accolades: Nominated for 6 Academy Awards (including Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Original Score, Best Costume Design). Rooney Mara won Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival. Nominated for 5 Golden Globe Awards and 9 BAFTA Awards.