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***1/2 STARS

“Notes On A Scandal” is over the top and is just as deliciously scandalous as its title suggests, I loved every dramatic moment of it! I was aware of the controversial subject matter in this movie before viewing it, but had no idea I would get such enjoyment out of watching these two actresses look so meek and act so devious and cruel. This movie is the ultimate soap opera with an adult, intelligent script that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

I watched these two actresses battling it out on the big screen, each one deserving of Oscar attention, with a sense of awe. The raw power and realistic portrayal of these two common women’s lives in London is spellbinding. I couldn’t keep my eyes off of this film. The movie is filmed with a gritty and dark realism that gives the picture its edge over other sappy chick flicks. This dark, gloomy feel would normally put me off, but in this film it helped with the mood and experience.

Judy Dench’s “Barbara” comes off sympathetic enough for you the viewer to care for, but soon we see her true nature unfold much like Cate Blanchett’s character “Sheba” does. It is as if the audience feels the betrayals and the sense of urgency just as the characters do. When the characters are faced with the idea of hiding a terrible secret together you want to scream at the screen and do something to prevent the obvious from happening. This feeling is what makes this movie so unique. It stirs up emotions and makes you think about the bonds you make with people, and who you choose to tell your darkest secrets to.

Throughout the movie we hear Judy Dench’s character narrate the film. We get some great comedic moments as well as terrific examples of great screenwriting when she is speaking. We watch the friendship between Barbara and Sheba grow with a sense of dread. What seems like an authentic organic relationship turns into a manipulative and demented sense of companionship created by Barbara, and Sheba has no clue as to her motives.

When Dench and Blanchett are on screen together there is so much chemistry it is ridiculous. They are filmed and costumed in such a way that they look down right “normal”, you actually forget that these two ladies are acting. They give this movie the real edge it needs to not come off cheesy or make women look bad. It is a wonder to watch them explode with rage, just as it is to watch them in their quiet moments. It is a sight you must witness. I consider this one of the best acted and filmed movies of this year, for sure!