It might be strange to describe this film as beautiful considering its sad and solemn theme, but as it ended I had a great feeling of purity come over me, probably helped by the contemplative score, and I couldn't see it any other way. It is an engaging piece of work, tremendously acted by Carey Mulligan and my man Jake Gyllenhaal. It explores duty, selfishness, understanding, acceptance, and pride all through the viewfinder of 1950s values and expectations. It is particularly strong in communicating that gut-wrenching sickness when you're a teenager and you see or hear your mother entertain a man other than your father. Having said that, Ed Oxenbould could have done better in the role as a whole, as I felt he was a little plain-faced. Still, it's one of the best films of last year.