"An Education", 2008

Aug. 20, 2023, 8:15 a.m. Recommendations Evelyn Lark

"An Education", 2008

"An Education" provides an intimate look into the life of a bright, 16-year-old schoolgirl named Jenny (Carey Mulligan) who finds herself captivated by the charming yet older David (Peter Sarsgaard). Set against the backdrop of 1960s London, the film delves deep into themes of love, maturity, and personal growth.

"An Education", 2008

Director Lone Scherfig, working from a sharp and insightful screenplay by Nick Hornby (adapted from Lynn Barber’s memoir), manages to perfectly capture the allure and excitement of a young woman's first experience with a seemingly sophisticated world outside her sheltered upbringing. The narrative carefully unfolds, juxtaposing the vibrant world of jazz clubs and art auctions with the structured expectations of Jenny's school and family life.

"An Education", 2008

Carey Mulligan, in a star-making turn, offers a nuanced and compelling portrayal of Jenny. Her transformation from a naive schoolgirl to a young woman awakened to life’s complexities is both convincing and heartrending. Peter Sarsgaard’s David is charming and unpredictable, a perfect counter to Mulligan's character.

Supporting performances from Alfred Molina, as Jenny's well-meaning yet out-of-touch father, and Rosamund Pike, as the endearing yet dim-witted friend of David, further enrich the film's tapestry.

"An Education", 2008

"An Education" is not just a story about a young girl's infatuation with an older man; it's a deeper exploration of how personal experiences, even the painful ones, shape and define one’s path to adulthood. With its evocative setting, standout performances, and deft direction, the film offers a poignant reminder of the trials and tribulations of growing up.

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