Join Laura and Stephen as they continue their Summer of Love series with a deep dive into the 2015 period romance film “Carol.” Directed by Todd Haynes and starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, this episode explores the emotionally rich and visually stunning story of a transformative romance in the conservative era of 1950s America. Through their analysis, they discuss the sociopolitical context of the time, character dynamics, and the artistry of Todd Haynes, while celebrating the film's impact and beauty.

00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast

00:07 Overview of 'Carol'

00:42 Hosts' Banter and Personal Updates

01:48 Historical Context of 'Carol'

06:11 Character Analysis: Carol and Therese

12:29 Todd Haynes' Filmmaking Style

14:59 Natural Progression of Romance

15:47 Carol's Contentious Divorce

17:22 Therese's Role and Perspective

18:23 Generational Differences

20:09 Therese's Artistic Growth

21:04 Hardge's Opposition

26:48 The Road Trip

27:08 Cinematography and Symbolism

28:48 Final Thoughts on Carol

30:08 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

And look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Released this month alongside the FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025).

Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”

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Ep 257: Reviewing “Carol” (2015) Todd Haynes’ Period Masterpiece of Forbidden Love

Midday Movies