I could live to be 100 and never tire of one of my favorite Christmas traditions: rewatching Todd Haynes’s 2015 masterpiece, Carol, surrounded by as many gay people as possible.
This year, though, I’m watching Carol alone for the sake of journalism, so I invite you to be my queer family as I revisit Carol, Therese, and their fabulously forbidden 1950s New York lesbian romance.
“The Weinstein Company presents…” …yikes.
Has the screech of train brakes ever sounded gayer?
God, I’ll never forget watching this at Metrograph a few Christmases ago with what felt like every lesbian and bisexual woman in New York.
Sandy Powell absolutely nailed these costumes.
And Phyllis Nagy with this screenplay—incredible!
Listen, random guy, Therese is busy being elegantly, genteelly gay in a very ’60s way. She does not want to go to your random-bro party!
…Oh, maybe she does?
I know Therese’s single-girl apartment is meant to feel sad, but I adore it.
Just imagining a Mad Men crossover where Don Draper stumbles into her department store drunk, trying to buy Sally a last-minute Christmas gift, and gets furious because he’s found the one woman in New York who won’t sleep with him.
IT’S CAROL!
Looking absolutely stunning in her red hat and fur!
I love how forlorn Therese’s little Santa hat looks.
“I wonder if you might help me find this doll for my daughter.” Anything you want, Carol! Your wish is my command, Carol!
Honestly, a train set is a very plausible Christmas gift for a lesbian child.
I mean, I wanted dolls myself—but then again, I’ve never really been a STEM she/they.
Who actually enjoys wrapping presents?
That “Mommy’s Baby” doll display behind Therese as she talks to Carol… pure art.
“I like the hat.” LOL.
I wish meeting women was still as easy as leaving your gloves behind at their job.
Please, only ever refer to me as a “movie jerk.”
That would actually make a great Letterboxd username.
Hey, it’s that square-jawed guy from Obvious Child!
Ah, to be a straight white man in the 1950s, drunk on the street and arguing about HUAC.
Carol’s daughter Rindy has the same haircut as Therese! The human psyche is truly fascinating.
Why is everyone at this department store so mean?
Well, to be fair, Christmas must have been rough for retail workers back then—especially in the ’50s, when you basically earned a penny and a cigarette for a full day’s work.
“Creamed spinach, poached eggs, and a dry martini with olives” is an order I urgently need to place in a dimly lit restaurant.
Preferably with a beautiful MILF sitting across from me.
Wait a minute… have I officially aged out of my Therese era and into my Carol era?
I’m only 32! It’s too soon!
Carol basically asking, “Can you host?” Iconic.
Sunday is the most lesbian day of the week, and I will die on this hill.
“What a strange girl you are. Flung out of space.” I’m deceased!
SARAH PAULSON TIME!
Two mid-century lesbians in kerchiefs, driving freely through the city… ah, to be part of that.
Harge’s mother looks great, I have to say.
Everyone, leave your repressive 1950s husband—NOW!
What exactly is this man’s job at the New York Times?
Shut up, Harge!
Why is this other kid giving Carol the side-eye?
Ah, the classic Christmas soundtrack: sultry piano.
“Invite me round.” YES!!!
I am the president of the Harge Hater Society.
Were people really named Jennifer in the 1890s, or whenever Grandma Jennifer was born?
“You married a woman like me.” Get him, Carol.
I absolutely adore Therese’s little knit pom-pom hat.
Oh hell yes, we love a casual ’50s lesbian road trip.
I desperately want to meet the redhead Abby has her eye on—the one who owns a steakhouse in Paramus.
“I’m talking serious Rita Hayworth redhead.” LOL.
Lesbian road trip montage!
Abby not putting up with Harge’s nonsense is such a mood.
Why are men always around when you least want them?
This is a good reminder to never tolerate men’s boring, polite small talk—especially not in the middle of a steamy queer affair.
How do I get my hands on that pristine white three-piece luggage set?Wait, have they not slept together before this?
This is really happening.
Ugh, I can’t stand this part.
A casual fling might be fun, but when things get tough, all you really want is to call your queer best friend for support.
Remember this for next time, Carol!
I’m obsessed with the awkward, not-quite-connection between Abby and Therese.
Yes, Therese! Paint that apartment! Work for the New York Times! Live your life!
Now I’m desperately craving red wine and mashed potatoes at 9:57 in the morning.
I love seeing Carol stand up for herself!
In court, no less! Or, well, in arbitration!
“What use am I to her, to us, if I’m living against my own grain?” Hell yes.
Look at Therese’s adorable little professional haircut and suit!
How could anyone resist the temptation to go live with Cate Blanchett?
God, what a perfect movie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about the article Here are 70 thoughts I had while watching Carol again
General Beginner Questions
Q What is this list of 70 thoughts about
A Its a personal humorous and detailed livetweet style commentary from someone rewatching the 2015 film Carol starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara
Q Do I need to have seen the movie Carol to understand it
A Its highly recommended The thoughts are full of specific references to scenes lines costumes and subtle character moments that will make the most sense if you know the film
Q Is this a formal movie review or analysis
A Not at all Its an informal streamofconsciousness reaction Its more about the personal experience of rewatching the film rather than a critical evaluation
Q Whats the tone of these thoughts
A The tone is affectionate observant funny and deeply appreciative It mixes awe for the films craft with relatable nitpicky and emotional reactions
Content Style Questions
Q What kind of things do the thoughts cover
A They cover everything cinematography costumes specific line deliveries the soundtrack character motivations the actors expressions and even funny anachronisms
Q Are there any spoilers
A Yes major spoilers The thoughts go through the entire plot from start to finish so only read it if youve seen the movie or dont mind spoilers
Q Does the author just praise the movie or are there criticisms
A Its overwhelmingly positive and full of love for the film but there are also witty asides about small relatable things
Q Is this like a recap or summary
A No its not a plot summary It assumes you know the plot and instead focuses on the tiny details and emotional beats that a viewer notices on a rewatch
Deeper Advanced Questions
Q How does this list enhance a rewatch of Carol
A It acts like a companion pointing out exquisite details you might have missed like a meaningful glance or