Set during the holidays in the 1950s, Carol offers an interesting and period-focussed twist on a Christmas story. The film follows Therese, a department store clerk, and Carol, a well-off woman stuck in a loveless marriage. The pair experience an instant spark, and their coincidental meeting soon develops into something much deeper. Due to the societal norms of the time and the expectations of being a proper woman, their unconventional attraction is pushed to its limit. Their desire for each other reaches a fever pitch when the two share a passionate kiss on New Year's Eve. After their steamy moment, drama ensues, and the secret lovers are forced to navigate the entire aftermath together.