Barring his excellent miniseries take on “Mildred Pierce,” Todd Haynes hasn’t released a feature film since 2007’s experimental Bob Dylan biopic, “I’m Not There.” However, the director is ending his big-screen drought with the Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara-starring “Carol,” and now we have a few more details on the period piece.
A few weeks ago, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago hosted Haynes and his frequent collaborator, costume designer Sandy Powell, for a special screening of “Velvet Goldmine” for the museum’s ongoing “David Bowie Is” exhibit. Per The Film Stage (via MissBelivet), the duo revealed that “Carol” is nearing the end of post-production, with “mixing & color timing” to be completed in New York City, and that a spring 2015 premiere date is being eyed. Also of note? Apparently Harvey Weinstein “really gets” the film. So, see you at the Croisette?
Despite taking place in the same time period as “Far from Heaven,” Haynes’ new film—based on Patricia Highsmith’s novel—looks very different from the colorful and bright 2002 film, with the director and Powell taking inspiration for the cinematography and costumes from photographers like Ruth Orkin and Vivian Maier, along with fashion magazines from the period and street photography. The New York setting is described as being “more of an old world city, post-war New York—distressed yet beautiful muted and sour color palette,” with “monochromatic” being used as a keyword by the filmmakers. These new details, combined with a stellar ensemble containing Blanchett, Mara, Kyle Chandler, Sarah Paulson, John Magaro, and Carrie Brownstein, make for a very promising return to the big screen for Haynes. Now we only have to wait seven more months.
If you want to learn more about “Carol,” and hear Haynes and Powell break down the look and inspiration behind “Velvet Goldmine,” the MCA Chicago released a podcast of the Q&A session for your listening pleasure.