A book-to-film adaption, Carol is a romantic-drama period film that chronicles an illicit love affair between Carol (Cate Blanchett), a New Jersey housewife, and a department clerk named Therese — made illicit by Carol's marriage and the unconventional nature of their relationship. Set during the holiday season in 1950s Manhattan, Carol first meets Therese while shopping at her store and the two strike up a conversation, agreeing to meet again. As their connection deepens, so does their lust for one another, which comes to fruition on New Year's Eve in the form of a passionate kiss. Carol's plan to leave her marriage is hijacked after her husband finds out about her affair and consequently threatens to keep her away from their daughter should she continue to see Therese.