Movie spotlight
Under the Greenwood Tree
This documentary focuses on The Public Theater’s 2017 Public Works musical production of As You Like It, which was performed by 200 New Yorkers of all ages and boroughs, and was named one of the Top Ten shows of 2017 by The New York Times. Co-adapted by Shaina Taub and Laurie Woolery, with music and lyrics by Shaina Taub, original choreography by Sonya Tayeh, and direction by Laurie Woolery, As You Like It was set to be remounted as part of the 2020 Free Shakespeare in the Park season, but those plans were halted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This film tracks the creation of As You Like It and the ways this resilient community has banded together amidst the crises of 2020.
Insights
Plot Summary
In a picturesque English village, a young schoolmistress named Fancy Day navigates the complexities of her new life and romantic entanglements. As she settles into her role and her new surroundings, she finds herself at the center of attention from multiple suitors, each with their own desires and expectations. Fancy must balance her personal aspirations with the societal pressures of her time, making choices that will shape her future.
Critical Reception
Under the Greenwood Tree (2020) received a mixed to positive reception, with many critics praising its faithful adaptation of Thomas Hardy's novel and its charming period detail. The performances, particularly of the lead actress, were often highlighted as a strong point. However, some reviewers found the pacing to be slow at times and the emotional arc less compelling than other Hardy adaptations.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its picturesque setting and adherence to the source material.
The lead performance was frequently cited as a highlight.
Some critics felt the adaptation lacked emotional depth and suffered from slow pacing.
Google audience: Audience reception information is not widely available.
Fun Fact
The 2020 adaptation is one of several screen versions of Thomas Hardy's 1872 novel of the same name, with previous adaptations including a 1918 silent film and a 1971 BBC television serial.
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