Review: An Education

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Now I can officially say I saw all 10 of the Best Picture nominees at this years Oscars. It took me a lot longer than I wanted to get my hands on this film, but it was definitely worth the wait.

'An Education' is a coming-of-age story set in 1960's London. We meet a bored but smart teenager named Jenny. (Carey Mulligan) Jenny's parents want her to get into Oxford, and she's all for the idea as well. She studies nonstop, but for what? Jenny likes to listen to French music and read good literature. She's very worldly for her 16 year old self. One day while walking home from school she meets an older man David (Peter Sarsgaard) who loves all the same things Jenny does, and can take her to experience them. Surprisingly her parents are alright with this. David takes her to Paris, to fancy restaurants and night clubs. She meets his posh friends, and soon begins to learn a little more about her mysterious friend.

I can see why everyone fell in love with Carey Mulligan this year. She's mesmerizing to watch. I remember her in 'Pride and Prejudice' but she wasn't really given much to do. She's 24 in real life, but is completely believable as teenage Jenny. She's beautiful and has such elegance about her. She'll have a long career. Peter Sarsgaard has always been great in everything he's done. He's no different here. You know that a 16 year old with a man twice her age is wrong, but he's charming and actually makes you believe in him at first. The supporting cast were all great as well. Alfred Molina as Jenny's fickle father was great, and we get small parts from great Brits like Emma Thompson and Sally Hawkings. Rosemund Pike (who plays David's ditzy friend) was a joy to watch as well.

They really capture the feel of 1960's London. I loved the costumes, make up , hair, all those great little things that really add to the film. The soft French music they play is fitting, and we get some good shots of London and Paris. 'An Education' is the perfect title for the film. That's what Jenny learns from the experience and we're going right along with her hoping that she comes out on top.

Recommended: Yes

Grade: A

Memorable Quote: "I propose that you put your cello inside my car and walk along side it" - David (Peter Sarsgaard)

Comments

  1. John GilpatrickApril 24, 2010 at 7:02 PM

    I loooooooved this film. Carey Mulligan gave my favorite performance from last year. Glad you like it too!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Candice FrederickApril 24, 2010 at 8:33 PM

    i'm not much of a foreign film fan, but i do need ot catch this film. loved this review!

    ReplyDelete
  3. rehamahApril 25, 2010 at 4:33 AM

    totally agree with you I loved this film, great British Indie.

    ReplyDelete

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