Director Todd Haynes’ adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s early novel stars Cate Blanchett as the titular Carol, a wealthy suburban wife and mother, and Rooney Mara as an aspiring photographer. They meet by chance, fall in love almost at first sight, and defy the closet of the early 1950s to be together. In what is certainly his crowning achievement, Haynes charts subtle shifts of power and desire in luminous images by cinematographer Ed Lachman that are evocative of mid 20th-century America. Blanchett and Mara are both splendid; the erotic connection between their characters is palpable from beginning to end, as much in its repression as in eagerly claimed moments of expressive freedom. Oscar attention will be forthcoming to all principals, including Phyllis Nagy for the wisdom of her screenplay, Carter Burwell for the haunting music score, Sandy Powell and Judy Becker for picture-perfect costume and production design. Carol is, simply, the most highly acclaimed picture of the year.

The official Carol soundtrack and Patricia Highsmith's novel are now available for purchase at the Coral Gables Art Cinema café.