​FILMS

far from the madding crowd

2015 review number 110:

Far from the Madding Crowd: (Drama): 84 out of 100: Based on Thomas Hardy's fourth novel which was his first major literary success, this is the third film interpretation with previous films being made in 1967 and 1998. I have neither read the novel nor seen the other film versions so if this production is anything to go by, it would be extremely tempting to spend some time reading the novel and checking out the previous films. 

 

Carey Mulligan plays Bathsheba Everdene who inherits a farm from her uncle. She has three suitors pursuing her, the first one is Gabriel Oak (Matthias Schoenaerts), a shepherd who has proposed to her but an unfortunate turn in events on his own farm leads him to forgo his pursuit and actually work for her. The second one is William Boldwood (Michael Sheen), a middle-aged wealthy neighbour who is equally smitten with her. The third suitor is Sergeant Francis Troy (Tom Sturridge) who was left at the altar by his bride-to-be, through unfortunate circumstances. Left jilted, he bumps into Bathsheba one evening and they indulge in a passionate romance, one more suited to a first love. 

 

This stately film directed by Thomas Vinterberg is a visual and aural feast. The cinematography is simply divine, capturing the beauty of the English countryside and providing viewers with an experience of seemingly being there. The production design brilliantly represents the era of which the film is set, which is in the 1870s. Attention to detail can be seen in numerous scenes. The exquisite costumes also help bring to life the story and characters. One mustn't forget the music score by Craig Armstrong when lavishing praise for it is lush and grand, serving its images well.

 

For this type of film to be a success, the acting needs to draw in the viewers to make them feel empathy. Through the efforts of the principal cast along with the support actors, this has been achieved. Mulligan deserves special praise for acting with distinction; she convinces us in her portrayal of the headstrong young woman who is determined to run the farm she inherited. Schoenaerts is brooding and desirable in his role while Sheen continues his impressive run as a character actor and can always be relied on to deliver a sterling performance. Sturridge has the 'villain' role and at times is a cliched cardboard character but he performs with an air of desperation and menace.

 

The story is thoroughly engaging with some excellent dialogue. This could have easily headed into heavy-handed melodrama territory but the director has ensured that it doesn't happen. You ride with the ebbs and flows of the film as you are drawn into the story and characters. 

 

Far from the Madding Crowd is a treat especially for lovers of English period films. Even if you are not into these types of movies, you should be able to appreciate the fine performances and excellent storytelling, making this an absorbing, memorable and magnificent drama from start to finish.

 

Starring Carey Mulligan, Michael Sheen, Matthias Schoenaerts and Tom Sturridge

(119 minutes)

Parental advice: Adult themes and violence

Additional scene during or after credits: No

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-_9AFwMDmQ (Movie trailer)

(Reviewed on Sunday 2nd August, 2015)

 

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