Rooney Mara + Cate Blanchett @ Carol Premiere (BFI London FF)
“In production, this was the first time they did kiss. And both actresses will make note of the fact that I didn’t say “cut” for a long time. [Laughs] And they kept going. I was sort of enthralled watching. It was the first time Cate and Rooney made out in front of me. And I couldn’t say “cut.” I didn’t want to put them in an awkward position. I think I ultimately did.” - Todd Haynes
Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara at the 68th annual Cannes Film Festival on May 17, 2015 in Cannes, France.
“Blanchett’s performance is utterly right. Her hauteur and elegance matched with fear and self-doubt. When I first saw Carol at Cannes this year, she reminded me of a predatory animal suddenly struck with a tranquilizer dart. On watching it again, what I noticed was Blanchett continually touching her face and stroking her hair as she speaks to Therese: a “poker tell” of desire.”