An Education (2009)
2009
PG-13
100 Minutes
A coming-of-age story about a teenage girl in 1960s suburban London, and how her life changes with the arrival of a playboy nearly twice her age.
User Review
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An Education is deliciously sumptuous powered by a stellar cast. This, unfortunately, went under my radar completely. A vintage coming-of-age drama that oozes British charm. How could I not love this!? A young girl with promising prospects for Oxford University is whisked off her feet by an older man. His lavish lifestyle taints her innocence and soon becomes embroiled in the rich culture that swamped the 60s. This is a rather unique plot, in the fact we have two important ideas being visualised. The onscreen romance between a young girl and an older man, and the corruption of class superiority. The innocent demeanour of Jenny meant she was malleable. Her family pushing her to achieve the best in education, the mature romance changing her ambitions and way of thinking. All of her dreams and goals are being achieved through the use of one man's bank account, where she believes to be happy. So what is the point in furthering your education when you are presented with everything? Oh this was tasty, so tasty that I couldn't keep my eyes off. Beauty and intelligence complementing each other in what is a near-perfect drama. The acting was phenomenal. Mulligan gave yet another understated performance, proving she is one of the best actresses working today. Sarsgaard exhumed power and control. Their onscreen chemistry was enigmatically fragile, incredibly realistic. Molina portraying an incredibly protective father. Cooper, Pike and everyone else...sublime! The use of the English language here is inspired. The posh etiquette and Oxford-like mannerisms enhanced the elegance of the script. The production design was also noteworthy and really captured the 60a vibe. Then the ending...heartbreaking! I just wish it was longer! Certain elements were a tad rushed, particularly the marriage proposal. However, this was incredibly thought provoking and questions the aspirations of gaining a degree. If you haven't seen this, please watch it immediately.0 member like this review.
