Notes on a Scandal
December 17 @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, 17 December
Notes on a Scandal (2006) is a sharp, psychological drama that delves into obsession, control, and toxic female friendship. The story is narrated by Barbara Covett (Judi Dench), an ageing, lonely history teacher at a London comprehensive school who documents her life in a private journal. Her drab existence is dramatically altered by the arrival of the vibrant and younger art teacher, Sheba Hart (Cate Blanchett).
Barbara quickly develops a dangerous, consuming infatuation with Sheba, viewing her as the confidante and companion she always desired. However, when Sheba begins an illicit affair with a 15-year-old student, Barbara discovers her secret. Instead of reporting her, Barbara chooses to leverage this knowledge, using the scandal to tighten her manipulative grip on Sheba. The film then becomes a gripping, tense battle of wills, exploring the devastating consequences of loneliness and entitlement, all heightened by Dench’s chilling voiceover and the explosive, Oscar-nominated performances of both lead actresses.
“Intelligent, classy and skin-crawling. You won’t see a better acting masterclass this year.” – Olly Richards, Empire Magazine
“Shrewdly adapted from Zoë Heller’s best-selling novel, Notes On A Scandal grabs your attention with a gentle touch and refuses to let go.” – BBC
Full review: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2007/feb/02/drama.periodandhistorical