After wandering through the ruins of the blockbuster franchise that was the DCEU and immersing yourself in the bombast of the “John Wick” saga, perhaps you might consider a little palate cleanser. Enter, “Carol.” Todd Haynes’ 2015 film about repressed sexuality in mid-century America is brilliant for so many reasons, perhaps chiefly because it contains arguably Cate Blanchett’s best performance. The actress plays Carol Aird, a 1950s housewife and mother who harbors a desire for other women. When she meets department store clerk Therese Belivet (Rooney Mara), she can’t help but let her submerged feelings come to the surface, leading to dire consequences for her and her seemingly comfortable suburban life.
The way Blanchett projects Carol’s inner turmoil and passion for her new love interest without being able to fully embrace the affection she feels is nothing short of a masterclass. But Haynes is obviously no slouch himself, crafting this tragic, if at times campy, love story with a studied eye.
So, if you happen to find yourself in need of something a little more highbrow after witnessing John Wick lay waste to an entire army of foes, then look no further than “Carol.” But you’d better hurry because this one is leaving Netflix on March 19, 2024.