One of the most beloved films of this century, Todd Haynes’ Oscar®-nominated Carol is a stunningly directed story of forbidden love. Evoking Douglas Sirk’s lush melodramas, this adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s novel features intimate and moving performances from Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara.

Starring Rooney Mara, Alonso Ruizpalacios’s ebullient vision of a bustling Times Square kitchen underlines the resilience of employees all too aware of cycles of exploitation. Powdery monochrome cinematography evokes dreaming, while spectacular forays into allegory let humanity shine through.