Wednesday, Jun. 22, 2011
Sheba Hart, Notes on a Scandal
If we've learned anything from movies, it's that appearances can be deceiving. It's initially tempting to sympathize with Sheba Hart (Cate Blanchett) in Notes on a Scandal as she's the victim of creepy exploitation by fellow teacher Barbara Covett (Judi Dench). Yet, while she's beautiful and charming, Sheba is also undoubtedly the predator in the relationship she initiates with her 15-year-old student. Sure, scheming Barbara may have a disturbing tendency to control those around her, but it's Sheba who commits an actual crime. As bad as stalking, lying and manipulation are, pedophilia is worse, every time.