The Country Wife

This lavish adaptation of William Wycherley's scandalous 1675 Restoration comedy follows the scheming Horner, who feigns impotence to gain access to the city's married women. His plan is complicated by the arrival of the virtuous but naive Margery Pinchwife, who is determined to experience London's pleasures. The play satirizes the hypocrisy and sexual politics of Restoration society.

The 1977 television adaptation of 'The Country Wife' was praised for its faithful yet accessible rendition of the bawdy Restoration play. Critics lauded the performances, particularly Judi Dench's portrayal of Margery Pinchwife, and the production's visual splendor. It is considered a notable example of television bringing classic English drama to a wide audience.

• Judi Dench delivers a star-making performance as the innocent yet cunning Margery Pinchwife.
• The production successfully captures the wit and satirical bite of Wycherley's original play.
• Visually stunning, the adaptation brings the opulence of the Restoration era to life.

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The 1977 television production was filmed for the BBC and is known for its high production values, featuring elaborate costumes and sets that evoked the grandeur of the Restoration period.