An Education tells the story of a young girl, Jenny, who is torn between her academic pursuits and taking the chance to experience life. Set in 1960′s London it contrasts the jet-setting lifestyle of the swinging sixties with the restrained, closeted, home-life of traditional Britain.
Based on the memoirs of journalist Lynn Barber, the script is written by novelist Nick Hornby (Fever Pitch, High Fidelity). Hornby, together with director Lone Scherfig (the excellent Wilbur Wants To Kill Himself), create a brisk, efficient narrative that never feels rushed; creating a marvellous structure on which to hang the performances.
The small cast are routinely excellent. Alfred Molina (Raiders of the Lost Ark, Spiderman 2, Boogie Nights) shines as Jenny’s father; hell-bent on his daughter receiving an education, he is not the one-dimensional authoritarian figure often portrayed in similar films. Peter Skarsgaad (Boys Don’t Cry, Kinsey) inflects the right amount of queasiness, mischievousness and earnestness (thats a lot of ‘nesses!) into his portrayal of David; Jenny’s older suitor. Rounding out the cast are Olivia Williams and Emma Thompson in small yet pivotal roles as teacher and principal at Jenny’s school.
Yet, despite everyone’s excellence, the heart of the film, and its success, lies in Carey Mulligan’s portrayal of Jenny. Her performance shows nuance and maturity that belies her young age of 24. She deserves all of the raves that she has been getting.
An Education is a simple unambitious tale that is well-worth your time. Filled with spark, wit, and romance, it is an easy watch; yet, unlike your rote, cynical, Hollywood “rom-com”, or twee American indie (Juno), An Education isn’t full of empty calories. An entertaining night at the flicks!
