CAROL (2015)

Though I've never read Patricia Highsmith, I've become a fan of her themes of secrets, duality, and complexity through filmed versions of her work like The Talented Mr. Ripley and (a personal favorite) Strangers on a Train.  There is this feel, a mood, to the Oscar-nominated Carol as well - the story of a friendship struck up between a New York City department store clerk, Therese (Rooney Mara), and the beautiful, sophisticated Carol (Cate Blanchett) when she sells the older woman a toy train set for her daughter.  Said friendship, from start, is rife with sexual tension (the mutual attraction crackles on-screen), a potentially sticky situation as this is the 1950's and Carol - going through a separation/divorce - is a fiercely devoted mother expecting to retain custody of her beloved daughter.  Carol is a slow burn; a character study of a relationship that may more too slow for some, but for me was fairly fascinating thanks to the lead performances.  An intriguing and lyrical film. (rated R)  A-