AN EDUCATION (UK 2009) ***
Directed by Lone Sherfig

Based on the memoir by Lynn Barber and script by Nick Hornby (ABOUT A BOY and FEVER PITCH), AN EDUCATION is a no-surprise typical growing up story in which an impressionable young pre-university lass gets sidetracked from going to Oxford by the temptations in life.  Yet, director Sherfig’s film is entirely engaging and heart-warming.  Most of which is due to the fresh performance of newcomer Carey Mulligan in the title role of Jenny.

Set in the 60’s of suburban London, director Sherfig puts pains in creating a more sombre view of the times without much of the swinging times.  The film won the Sundance cinematography award.  Bits of dialogue lines like: “They must think that I am made of money” and “at least she is not in the family way”, are seldom heard for some time.  Those unfamiliar with the British education system might find it odd when mention is made of mock “A” levels which Jenny scores and ‘A’ and two ‘B’s which is hardly sufficient for entrance.  (I am wondering here, as I did not think that those examinations were called “A” levels but by another name in that year.) Still, when Jenny makes a final attempt with the aid of Miss Stubbs (a most marvellous understated performance by Olivia Williams), little is shown of the process which is a plus, since non-Brits will find the process all the more puzzling.

The story concerns a feisty Jenny caught in a romance with a much older David (Peter Sarsgaard) while in school.  Jenny has second thoughts of entering Oxford once she tastes what David has to offer – art and the good life.  She rebels but her parents, Jack (Alfred Molina) and Marjorie (Cara Seymour) stand by her side.

Jenny is fashioned after Audrey Hepburn – clear from her outfits, hairdo and stances when she visits Paris with David.  She looks as if she was taken right out of ROMAN HOLIDAY.  The role of the father is a bit underwritten.  For someone who has no idea what ‘a starter’ is, one would expect him to be much bolder and to take greater action than just sit back once his daughter has been wronged.  One problem with the script is the length at which Jenny is fooled before the cat is let out of the bag.  She finds out the truth from letters left in David’s car’s glove compartment.  One would be sure that David, clever as he is in his business dealings, would have put those away when bringing her and her parents for the big dinner.  Sherfig lightens the problem with an argument Danny (Dominic Cooper from MAMMA MIA! and THE DUCHESS) puts forward.

But AN EDUCATION finally emerges as a morality tale effectively told that solidly gets it point across.  And the film is entertaining at the same time.