My Quick Take: Carol is a well-developed film with a deep psychological and emotional connection between the characters. As viewers, we watch the excitement of new love, the turmoil of heartbreak, and the anticipation of a new beginning.
Synopsis: This film is an adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s novel, The Price of Salt, and takes place in 1950s New York. Therese (Rooney Mara) is a young woman in her 20s working at a department store when she meets an older woman, Carol (Cate Blanchett), who is a combination of mysterious and charming, and in the midst of a divorce from her husband. The two form a connection and soon develop an intimate relationship. However, Carol’s husband learns of this relationship and begins to question her “morality” and ability to be a mother to their young daughter.
Representation: This film is beloved by much of the lesbian and queer community due to its positive representation and rare happy ending. Two women finding love and rising against the odds brings hope and comfort to those who see themselves in the characters. While the characters are unafraid to be their authentic selves, there is a stereotype present in the film when Carol’s, along with each of their legal teams, blames Carol’s sexuality and “aberrant behavior” on mental instability. To prove that she is capable of caring for her daughter, she must see a psychotherapist and be deemed “resolved” of her condition.
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