Ridiculously good’ period drama based on classic novel | UK News

A “superbly acted” period drama based on a classic of British literature has been hailed by followers as an “absolutely charming adaptation”. Under the Greenwood Tree (2005) is set in the mid-Nineteenth century, and tells the story of three males in a fictional Wessex village who all fall for a lovely new trainer at the local college, Fancy Day (performed by Keeley Hawes) – sparking chaos in the idyllic neighborhood.

Dick Dewy (James Murray), a charming younger musician and carter, is immediately taken with Fancy when he sees her for the first time while making a supply. In time he tries to win her over, but shortly discovers Mr Shinar (Steve Pemberton), a wealthy farmer, and the new vicar Mr Maybold (Ben Miles) are also eager to win her affections – and of greater social standing at the time.

The TV movie, which is based on Thomas Hardy’s 1872 novel of the same title, was directed by Nicholas Laughland, with a screenplay by Ashley Pharaoh.

One fan on IMDb said the movie is “ridiculously good” and told viewers not to anticipate the novel, but “to receive its inspiration in multitudes via Ashley Pharaoh’s adaptation”.

“The acting is superb and the chemistry between Hawes and Murray is as good as it gets, selling their evolving relationship completely.

“As superbly photographed, designed, and directed as ‘Under’ is, I discovered the modifying to be spectacular in specific. It’s fairly a feat to pull off this complete story (or any Hardy work) in about 90 minutes without a hitch while sustaining the propulsion of the plot.

They added that the film has the “makings of a classic”, giving it a 10/10.

Another famous that the story is much less tragic than some better-known novels Hardy has grow to be synoymous with.

“As one of Hardy’s earlier works, its lighter tone is welcome even as one values the realism of such tragedies as Tess of the D’Urbervilles and Far From the Madding Crowd,” they said.

“Are you a cinema fan to the core? There is no way you will ever want to miss this fine film.”

An Audience Reviewer on Rotten Tomatoes called it a “pleasant, rural story” including: “If you like period pieces (which I do) then you’ll very much like this romantic tale.

“Keeley Hawes – who was fantastic in “Wives & Daughters” – is a delight to watch in this movie.”

Under the Greenwood Tree is streaming now on Amazon Prime, and is also out there to buy or rent for non-subscribers.