The Rector's Wife
The Rector's Wife

The Rector's Wife

1994TV ShowEnded1 SeasonEnglish

Three-part dramatization of the novel by Joanna Trollope. A clergyman's wife shocks the church establishment and infuriates her husband by taking a job in a supermarket. She attracts the passionate interest of three very different men: a newly-appointed archdeacon; his younger brother, a philosopher and academic; and a wealthy businessman new to the village.

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Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Director: Ann TurnerGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

In a picturesque English village, the new wife of a rector, Sarah, struggles to adjust to the stifling expectations of the community and her husband's rigid adherence to tradition. When a charismatic American artist, the enigmatic Jo, arrives and befriends Sarah, a complex relationship develops, challenging Sarah's perceptions of duty, desire, and self-discovery. The story explores themes of repression, sexual awakening, and the search for freedom within the confines of societal norms.

Critical Reception

The Rector's Wife received a mixed to positive reception, with critics generally praising its sensitive exploration of female desire and the performances of its lead actresses, particularly Sharon Lawrence. Some found the pacing deliberate, while others appreciated its nuanced portrayal of a woman's internal struggle. It resonated with audiences interested in character-driven dramas exploring social constraints.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its sensitive portrayal of female awakening and desire.
  • The performances, especially by Sharon Lawrence, were noted as a strong point.
  • Some found the film's pacing to be slow, while others appreciated its contemplative nature.

Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews and their sentiment is not readily available for this film.

Awards & Accolades

None notable.

Fun Fact

The film was based on a novel of the same name by Joanna Trollope, a renowned author of contemporary fiction often focusing on British family life and social issues.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
Peter McGinn

Peter McGinn

I was surprised by this series, considering how long ago it was made, and also surprised I hadn't watched it when it ran on PBS. I haven't read the book, so I can't make comparisons. I am not one who insists movies sticks to the source mate...