Based on the literary classic by Thomas Hardy. Bathsheba Everdene, attracts three very different suitors: Gabriel Oak, a sheep farmer, captivated by her fetching willfulness; Frank Troy, a handsome and reckless Sergeant; and William Boldwood, a prosperous and mature bachelor. This timeless story of Bathsheba's choices and passions explores the nature of relationships and love – as well as the human ability to overcome hardships through resilience and perseverance.
Carey Mulligan is an inspired choice to play Bathsheba... She's cool and confident; we come to respect her strength and appreciate that she doesn't need a man to be complete.
– James Berardinelli,
ReelViews,
12 May 2015
fresh:
It's beautifully old and atmospheric without feeling dated.
– Colin Covert,
Minneapolis Star Tribune,
12 May 2015
fresh:
Vinterberg's classical, pastoral aesthetic recalls the heyday of the Merchant Ivory films, without the corny sentimentality of their lesser imitators.
– Lindsey Bahr,
Associated Press,
12 May 2015
fresh:
A good, solid version of this novel, guided by Mulligan, is still an achievement.
– Michael Phillips,
Chicago Tribune,
12 May 2015
rotten:
Moviegoers often say, "Forget about the book, even if it's a 'classic.' How does the film work on its own terms?" But that's the point: On its own terms, it's bewildering.