Far From the Madding Crowd is a classic tale, but in terms of story, it has the familiar thread of a lady having to choose between multiple swoon-worthy suitors, which is a common story of many lengthy, overly melodramatic period dramas. However, with the restrained direction of Thomas Vinterberg, and the writing of David Nicholls, known best for his decades sprawling romance in One Day, the fifth film adaptation captures the magic of the classic countryside novel, elevating the old-fashioned romance with an easier, faster flow, and carried by the powerful performance of its cast. Fans of the novel or the 1967 adaptation might feel disappointed at how much was removed, but overall, Far From the Madding Crowd is an exemplary drama adaptation.
Synopsis
Based on the literary classic by Thomas Hardy. Bathsheba Everdene, attracts three very different suitors: Gabriel Oak, a sheep farmer, captivated by her fetching willfulness; Frank Troy, a handsome and reckless Sergeant; and William Boldwood, a prosperous and mature bachelor. This timeless story of Bathsheba's choices and passions explores the nature of relationships and love – as well as the human ability to overcome hardships through resilience and perseverance.
Storyline
England, 1870s. The independent heiress Bathsheba Everdene catches the eye of shepherd Gabriel Oak, though she refuses his offer of marriage. Despite this, their lives continue to intertwine as Everdene hires him for her uncle’s farm, with Weatherbury bringing contrasting fortunes to both of them and new suitors for Miss Everdene.
TLDR
What happened to men giving you a lamb for a proposal?
What stands out
The music. The score is just so ethereal, but the way Craig Armstrong incorporates the folk and church songs into the story helps to recreate the way these farmers must have lived before, tugging at a collective history in a way not many period dramas have done.
