Cannes 2015: Is Carol Overrated?

Lot's of hype, but is it deserved?

By Alex Leadbeater /

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHMkfiKHDgw Whether you're on the French Rivera or following the festival from home, the one film from Cannes 2015 that nobody can stop talking about is Carol. The period lesbian romance, starring Cate Blanchett as the titular dame and Rooney Mara as her young love interest, it's the fest's most critically acclaimed film and looks poised to take some big awards here, as well as in the Oscars early next year. There's been praise of every aspect of Todd Haynes' film, from the acting to the framing, the the visual style to the music. And, as is wont of beloved films, there's already claims that it's overrated, an unworthy Palme d'Or contender and needing of knocking down a peg. Alex and Sam share their (semi-contrasting) opinions on the film, highlighting what works in the film and addressing that big hype issue. If you haven't already, subscribe to the WhatCulture YouTube channel to keep up with all the Cannes videos, follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest thoughts and make sure you keep checking the official Cannes page for the latest reviews. Carol is out in the USA on 18th December (although expect that to shift given Star Wars: The Force Awakens) and the UK on a yet to be announced date (probably early 2016).

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