With a title that could second as a statement, “An Education” lacks the authority necessary to make an impression on even the most simple of viewers.

The decade is the ’50s and the setting is England — alright, sounds boring enough. Jenny (Carey Mulligan) is a promising high school student with hopes of attending Oxford University. When an older gentleman named David (Peter Sarsgaard) offers Jenny a ride home, the act of kindness cues an unorthodox relationship that changes her scholarly life for good.

All seems well at first. David has ways of wooing Jenny’s parents, allowing the pair to accompany his friends on numerous trips to luxurious places. However, it soon becomes evident that David is harboring some devastating secrets.

The main problem with this film stems from the directing. Danish director Lone Scherfig seems to be confused with what kind of film she wants “An Education” to be. It starts off upbeat, switches to drama and ends as a young romance. This could work if done correctly, but changing the tone of the music is not grounds for changing the genre.

Although not great, Peter Sarsgaard still pulls out a respectable performance, even while sustaining a British accent. While Emma Thompson’s talent is wasted, Carey Mulligan’s up-and-coming talent is put to good use. Although I have to disagree with all the Oscar buzz she’s been receiving, she shows a maturity seldom seen in newcomers and I look forward to her future work.

After watching “An Education” we learn that good writing can only get you so far when you have a director who seems unsure of herself. The film definitely has potential and it’s certainly not the worst this year but in the end its another high expectation falling short.