About Notes on a Scandal (HBO)

"Notes on a Scandal" is an HBO film released in 2007 and is based on the 2003 novel by Zoë Heller, originally titled "What Was She Thinking: Notes on a Scandal". It is a psychological drama revolving around two female teachers - Sheba Hart and Barbara Covett, in a London based comprehensive school. Sheba starts an affair with a 15-year-old student, which Barbara discovers and this leads to an unexpected twist of events.

Making / Production

The movie was directed by Richard Eyre and produced by Scott Rudin and Robert Fox. The screenplay was crafted by Patrick Marber and the cinematography was done by Chris Menges. The film's raw and thrilling narrative makes it an intriguing watch.

Actors

• Judi Dench as Barbara Covett - A lone, veteran teacher who forms an obsession for Sheba. Her powerful portrayal of the character earned her numerous accolades.
• Cate Blanchett as Sheba Hart - A new, younger teacher at the school who becomes the object of Barbara's obsession. Blanchett's stirring performance was appreciated by the audience and critics alike.
• Bill Nighy as Richard Hart - Sheba's devoted but slightly oblivious husband, skillfully played by Nighy.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This film marks the third time Judi Dench played a character named Barbara. She previously played characters named Barbara in "GoldenEye" (1995) and "Die Another Day" (2002).
• The school scenes were filmed at Islington Arts and Media School in north London.
• Marion Bailey, who plays Mrs. Connolly, has previously taught acting to kids.

Awards

"Notes on a Scandal" received significant recognition, including four Academy Award nominations. Judi Dench and Cate Blanchett both got nominated for Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress categories respectively. The movie was also nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay and Original Score.

Quotes

• "In the old days, of course, when I was a young teacher, we were free to smack the children within reason."
• "When you're my age, you become invisible. It's the last taboo."
• "One soon learns that teaching is crowd control."

Music, Soundtrack

• "The original score was composed by Philip Glass, a distinguished composer known for his minimalist style."
• "The soundtrack of the movie is highly intense, reflecting the psychological tension between the characters."