Far from the Madding Crowd
Far from the Madding Crowd

Movie spotlight

Far from the Madding Crowd

2010
Movie
142 min
English

Having inherited her father’s farm, a spirited and feisty young woman – Bathsheba Everdene, finds herself playing mistress in a man’s world. She is pursued by three would-be lovers: the constant shepherd, Gabriel Oak; the obsessive landowner, William Boldwood and the reckless Sergeant Troy. But are any of them a match for the wilful Bathsheba? Based upon one of Hardy’s most popular and enduring novels, Far from the Madding Crowd takes us on a theatrical journey through Hardy country, following a passionate young girl propelled into womanhood by her experiences of love and loss.

Insights

IMDb6.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes53%
Metacritic64/100
Google Users74%
Director: Different for each adaptation; this is likely referring to a TV adaptation.Genres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

This summary is for the 2015 film adaptation as a 2010 version is not readily identifiable. Bathsheba Everdene, a fiercely independent young woman, inherits her uncle's farm in rural England. She navigates the complexities of love and life, attracting the attention of three very different suitors: the wealthy and stable Gabriel Oak, the dashing but unreliable Sergeant Troy, and the older, more reserved William Boldwood. Bathsheba must ultimately decide which man can offer her true happiness and partnership while managing her own desires and responsibilities.

Critical Reception

The 2015 film adaptation received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its lush cinematography, faithful adaptation of Thomas Hardy's novel, and strong performances, particularly from Carey Mulligan. Some found it to be a bit too restrained or conventional in its storytelling.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its beautiful visuals and faithful adaptation.

  • Carey Mulligan's performance as Bathsheba is a standout.

  • Some critics felt the adaptation lacked the novel's raw emotional power.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's visual beauty and the performances, finding it a charming and well-made adaptation. Some felt it was a bit slow-paced but ultimately a satisfying romantic drama.

Awards & Accolades

None notable for the 2010 version. The 2015 film received a nomination for Best Costume Design at the Academy Awards.

Fun Fact

The 2015 film is the fifth major screen adaptation of Thomas Hardy's 1874 novel.

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