Starring: Cate Blanchett, Judi Dench, Bill Nighy, Andrew Simpson
Directed by: Richard Eyre
(15), 92 mins, 2007, UK
What's the story?
School stalwart, Barbara Covett (Dench), befriends the beautiful new art teacher, Sheba Hart (Blanchett) in her quest to find a life partner. Along the way she discovers that the supposedly happily married mother-of-two is having an illicit affair with school boy, Steven Connolly (Simpson). Instead of telling the authorities she uses the power of the secret to infiltrate Sheba's life until she deviously let's the secret into the public domain ensuring she's there to play the role of 'best-friend', picking up the pieces. Gripping stuff.
Who should I take?
Everyone you know, except maybe your Gran, who might not be so impressed by the use of the C-word. But really take your girlfriends, your boyfriend, and your mother. This film is such a great drama that it'll give everyone something to think about. Even if your boyfriend is just wishing he'd been seduced by a hot art teacher back in the day.
Best bit?
The scene in which Barbara discovers the sexual relationship between Sheba and Steven is tense and wonderfully shot. To be honest, you know it's coming but that just adds to the tension and as she peeps through the door you can't decide whether it would be more exciting to be in the room or discovering the scandal – because everyone loves to discover a dirty secret.
Liking?
New talent Andrew Simpson. The blue-eyed 18-year-old turns in an impressive performance as the cocky student enjoying sleeping with his art teacher. His scenes are always sexually charged and it's easy to see, on a primal level, why Sheba Hart is drawn to him.
Is it worth my hard-earned cash?
Without question. Judi Dench and Cate Blanchett are Hollywood heavyweights and both act their socks off in this emotional drama. This is proven in the four Oscar nominations the film has received including Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress, not to mention the SAG nominations too. Phew, we think these two might have to get stronger shelves to hold all their trophies!
Rating
Website
www.foxsearchlight.com/NOAS
