MovieChat Forums > Carol (2016) Discussion > Who could have played the two leads in t...

Who could have played the two leads in the 1950s?

posted 9 years ago by DLD2cool-1
8 replies | jump to latest

I know that this film probably couldn't have been made around the time that Highsmith's novel was published, but who do you think could have played the leads in the 50s? My vote goes to Vivien Leigh as Carol, and as for Therese, I'm torn between Jean Simmons, Claire Bloom and Audrey Hepburn.

[–] lglg-74253 9 years ago

this film probably couldn't have been made around the time that Highsmith's novel was published

A love story of two women wouldn't have stood a chance in hell of being made in the early 50s or late 50s and in the 60s one of them would have ended up with a man, died tragically or committed suicide. But for this fantasy question my vote for Carol would be Rhonda Fleming or Lana Turner and for Therese definitely Jean Simmons.

[–] teeveejeevee 9 years ago

Most people have said that Therese/Rooney Mara reminded them of Audrey Hepburn, but I saw Jean Simmons, instead, and still do.

http://todayspictures.slate.com/20100126/images/PAR30219.jpg
https://static01.nyt.com/images/2010/01/24/nyregion/24simmons_CA0/popup.jpg

For Carol, I can envision Eva Marie Saint in the role.

http://cdn.highdefdigest.com/uploads/2012/10/31/north4.png

[–] 9 years ago

[deleted]

[–] ohmemercylard-58-17610 8 years ago

Love your choices. I can definitely see Maggie McNamara (sp) from THE MOON IS BLUE as Therese. In fact, when she stands in the doorway at Pete's party she looks just like her.

And I love the idea of the beautiful Kim Novak as Carol. I'd never have thought of her, but after reading your post I immediately pictured Vertigo and knew you nailed it.

[–] 8 years ago

[deleted]

[–] rahul_capri 8 years ago

Bette Davis and Linda Darnell

[–] Mortimer605 8 years ago

Katharine Hepburn and Audrey Hepburn

Deborah Kerr and Jean Simmons

Lauren Bacall and Natalie Wood

Personally, I like Deborah Kerr-Audrey Hepburn combo the most.

Fassbender - Mara - Blanchett

[–] carrieandxtina 8 years ago

Carol: Eleanor Parker

Therese: Jean Simmons