Review of Far from the Madding Crowd (2015) by Joan Pau R — 02 Apr 2017
A great performance by Carey Mulligan, and a fair adaptation of Hardy's novel that does not miss the chance to resurrect his idealised Dorset - some comfort for the English as the dark shadow of Brexit grows in the land perhaps? Some of the key points of the plot are somewhat rushed: how a self'-possessed woman reluctant to become another man's property rushes into the arms of a dashing soldier who everybody but her knows has a past may be justifiable - she was bound to choose the worst man out of three - but how quickly she relinquishes control of her farm afterwards makes no sense, and the deteriorating relationship with the disappointing husband needed some more development.
The patient and honourable good shepherd that is Gabriel Oak looks good, but there is barely any sexual chemistry between him and her, especially not when they finally kiss (she only seems to get excited when riding a horse with him).
What was it that drove him, honour or desire? Not clear. A respectable near miss.
This review of Far from the Madding Crowd (2015) was written by Joan Pau R on 02 April 2017.
Far from the Madding Crowd has generally received positive reviews.
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