Notes on a Scandal Loved It *****(Five Stars) 

BRILLIANT!  Go see this movie for it was bloody fantastic!  If you have ever been caught up in drama or scandal, then you will love this movie for it comes with a juicy dose of both. 

The story is told in a reflective format from the ancient, sinister and very lonely teacher named Barbara (Judi Dench). Barbara tells us her thoughts and desires as she writes in her journal.  She is amazingly observant and exposed.  She has a remarkable capability to bring the audience in closer as she tells the story.  It was interesting to see her as a master puppeteer, and watch as she skillfully manipulated and emotionally blackmailed the new teacher Shelby (Cate Blanchett).   I must tell you that I was most impressed with Cate Blanchett, she was honest and real as she portrayed an unhappy mother-teacher-wife, and we were almost sympathetic to her as she started to fall for one of her 15 year old students- almost. This is where the scandal begins, and the story takes a most interesting twist and you will be surprised, yet you will understand the pain and the agony that takes place, for we have all been there at a secret time of our life. 

Go see this film for you will find the journey is as intense as it is shocking.