Carol

Carol

Year: 2015

Runtime: 118 min

Language: English

Director: Todd Haynes

DramaRomance

In 1950s New York, Therese, a young department store clerk, finds herself drawn to the alluring Carol, a glamorous and sophisticated woman seeking a divorce. Their initial connection blossoms into a passionate and forbidden love affair, challenging the restrictive social conventions of the time. As their relationship deepens, Carol faces considerable pressure and legal battles related to the custody of her daughter, forcing her to confront the consequences of pursuing her true desires and fighting for her independence.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Carol (2015)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Carol (2015). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1952

The movie is set in the early 1950s, a time marked by post-war conservatism and societal expectations. This period struggles with rigid gender roles and the complexities of sexuality, leading to challenges for individuals like Carol and Therese, who seek to define their identities outside of societal norms. The backdrop of changing attitudes towards love and relationships adds depth to their journey.

Location

Manhattan, New Jersey

The film takes place in Manhattan, a bustling city known for its vibrant culture and iconic skyline. During the Christmas season, the city's festive atmosphere is palpable, providing a backdrop for the blossoming relationship between Therese and Carol. New Jersey, where Carol invites Therese, symbolizes a more personal, intimate space, away from the public eye, serving as a refuge for their love during tumultuous times.

🏙️ City 🌲 Nature

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:26

Main Characters – Carol (2015)

Meet the key characters of Carol (2015), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Therese Belivet (Rooney Mara)

Therese is a young, aspiring photographer caught between societal expectations and her emerging feelings for Carol. Her journey reflects a deep yearning for authenticity as she grapples with her ambivalent relationship with Richard and her profound connection with Carol. Throughout the film, she evolves from uncertainty to a bold embrace of her desires.

🖼️ Aspiration 💔 Heartbreak 🎒 Young Adult

Carol Aird (Cate Blanchett)

Carol is a sophisticated and emotionally complex woman navigating a difficult divorce while discovering a profound connection with Therese. Her character embodies the struggle for love and the societal constraints of the 1950s, showcasing her resilience as she faces custody battles while pursuing her truth. She is both a nurturing figure and a symbol of defiance against societal norms.

💖 Empowerment 🏠 Motherhood 🌧️ Struggle

Richard (Jake Lacy)

Richard is Therese's boyfriend, representing the conventional path many women of the time were expected to follow. His desire to marry and move to France symbolizes societal expectations, yet his relationship with Therese is marred by her growing indecisiveness and the emotional distance created by her feelings for Carol. His character highlights the tension between societal devotion and personal authenticity.

💍 Commitment 🙁 Heartbreak 🎓 Conventional

Harge (Kyle Chandler)

Harge is Carol's estranged husband, embodying the oppressive forces of traditional family structures. His determination to gain custody of Rindy adds significant conflict to the narrative, showcasing a man's societal power over a woman. Harge's character illustrates the lengths to which individuals will go to maintain control, ultimately highlighting the theme of sacrifice in Carol's fight for love.

🚫 Control 👨‍👧 Custody ⚔️ Antagonist

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:26

Major Themes – Carol (2015)

Explore the central themes of Carol (2015), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

❤️ Love

At its core, 'Carol' is a poignant exploration of love amidst societal constraints. The relationship between Therese and Carol challenges the norms of the 1950s, depicting their journey through the complexities of emerging feelings and the risks involved. Their love story is marked by both joy and heartache, emphasizing the courage it takes to embrace one's true desires.

📸 Self-Discovery

The theme of self-discovery is prominent, particularly through Therese's character. As she navigates her feelings for Carol and her ambivalence towards her current life, she channels her emotions into photography. The act of capturing moments not only reflects her artistic aspirations but also symbolizes her search for identity and belonging in a world that often suppresses such desires.

⚖️ Conflict

Conflict arises not only from external sources, such as the custody battle and Harge’s manipulations but also from internal struggles within Therese and Carol. Their relationship faces scrutiny and challenges from societal norms, personal insecurities, and the impending realities of their situations. The tension underscores the sacrifices they must confront in their pursuit of happiness.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:26

Unlock the Full Story of Carol

Don't stop at just watching — explore Carol in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Carol is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Carol Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Carol, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Carol Summary

Carol Timeline

Track the full timeline of Carol with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Carol Timeline

Carol Ending Explained

What really happened at the end of Carol? This detailed ending explained page breaks down final scenes, hidden clues, and alternate interpretations with expert analysis and viewer theories.

Carol Ending Explained

More About Carol

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Carol: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Carol

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