Variety
The riveting interplay between Dench and Cate Blanchett draws blood with every scene, thanks to a precision-honed script and Eyre's equally incisive direction...
Full review
Notes On A Scandal
In an intriguing departure from her usual, Judi Dench plays Barbara - a bitter, creepy and iron-fisted teacher at a low rent secondary school in London. Barb’s only companion is her cat, so when the new art teacher Sheba (Blanchett) begins, she finds a pet obsession. Sheba’s a young, attractive, married with kids bohemian – everything Barb isn’t and wants to be.
But she’s also got a secret. Barbara learns of it when she spies Sheba, in the arms of a 15 year old student (Simpson). Barbara’s initial shock quickly dissipates as she realises the power she now holds over her new ‘friend’.
But she’s also got a secret. Barbara learns of it when she spies Sheba, in the arms of a 15 year old student (Simpson). Barbara’s initial shock quickly dissipates as she realises the power she now holds over her new ‘friend’.
92 minsUK
ComedyDramaThriller
- Director:
- Richard Eyre ('Iris')
- Writer:
- Patrick Marber
- Cast:
- Judi DenchCate BlanchettBill NighyTom GeorgesonMichael MaloneyAndrew Simpson
Notes On A Scandal / Reviews
San Francisco Chronicle
Notes on a Scandal won't be everyone's cup of tea. But if you like your films strong, this one is not to be missed...
Full reviewLos Angeles Times
In bringing Heller's book to the screen, director Richard Eyre ("Iris," "Stage Beauty") and screenwriter Patrick Marber ("Closer") have tossed the book's subtlety out the window, along with its psychological complexity, its running theme of self-deception and its dark, extra-wry sense of humor...
Full review
Hollywood Reporter
Eyre does a fine job overseeing performances by a terrific cast that rings true until female hysteria takes over the final act. But in tone and theme, the film has all the hallmarks of playwright-screenwriter Marber's stark, uncompromising misanthropy, if not misogyny...
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Empire Magazine
Intelligent, classy and skin-crawling. You won't see a better acting masterclass this year...
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BBC
Imposing spaces, muted colours and a spine-tingling score heighten the journey into the dark recesses of Barbara's mind. With every manipulation, it becomes creepier and more compelling...
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