MOVIE MONDAYS: FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD
If I had managed to share the list of films released in May that I wanted to see like I was meant to then you would know that Far From the Madding Crowd was on it. This is not because I am a fan of the book by Thomas Hardy, as I have not actually read it, but rather because I have a bit of a girl crush on Carey Mulligan and will watch pretty much anything she's in - I am sure I'm not alone.
* * * *
Most of you will know by now that I do love a good period drama with a romantic flare and as Far From the Madding Crowd was set in the 1870's, it was bound to be added to my watch list sooner or later. We are invited to this beautifully sad story set against wildly enchanting landscapes that make you crave fresh air and the simple things in life. I am not saying I want to go back to the times where we had no electricity or internet but it is interesting to think about all the things you could to do to occupy your time back in those days. Although I would not want to walk outside on my own in that part of town at night during that era because to say the place is pitch black is an understatement. Far From the Madding Crowd is about a strong, smart and kind woman called Bathsheba Everdene and how she comes to learn about the power of self-reliance, love, heartache and faith surrounded by interesting people from various walks of life.
* * * *
Source: PA Photos // FOX Searchlight Pictures
Although I have not heard the best of reviews about Thomas Hardy's style of writing, this story is one I relished. The talented David Nicholls' (Great Expectations; One Day; Tess of the D'Ubervilles),whom I had the pleasure of "meeting" at his book signing in Manchester last year, wrote the script for this film adaptation of one of Thomas Hardy's famous novels. The language used was simple; not quite modern day but not at all a strain to understand the dialogue which made it all the more easy to sit back and watch the film. And it was Thomas Vinterberg(The Hunt; Submarino; It's All About Love) who sat in the director's chair and brought this version of the drama laden tale to the big screen. One thing I will say though is I did feel the pace of the film to be slightly too fast. I know most people are not a fan of long films but I think, if you have seen this movie, you will agree that even an extra 30 mins or so would be sufficient to allow certain emotions in the characters as well as the viewers to develop. There were a couple characters that I knew I was meant to empathise with but I felt a weird and foreign disconnect between myself and them which peeved me a little. Opportunities to cry for/with characters and passionately defend them with all my heart is what I crave for but sadly found myself unable to find/take them when I watched this film.
* * * *
Source: PA Photos//FOX Searchlight Pictures
That is not to say you should not watch it if you haven't. Far From the Madding Crowd is a really good film and very visually stunning. The cinematography is undoubtedly amazing and that is thanks to Charlotte Bruus Christensen (The Hunt; Submarino; My Good Enemy) who it appears has worked with Thomas Vinterberg before. And the hard work and skill of the costume design and make up teams did not go amiss. The colours and overall looks of the characters had a sort of natural and minimalistic feel to it but stepped up its game when the occasion called for it. And I loved the music that accompanied the scenes strung together beautifully by editor Claire Simpson (A Most Wanted Man; The Reader; The Constant Gardener). What I would give to learn more about how film composers like Craig Armstrong (The Great Gatsby; The Incredible Hulk; Elizabeth: The Golden Age) do what they do....
* * * *
Source: PA Photos // FOX Searchlight Pictures
And of course the performance of the actors was a joy to see. It was such a pleasant surprise to see Juno Temple (Maleficent; The Dark Knight Rises; St. Trinian's) in this movie. She took on the role of Fanny Robbins, a passionate free-spirited girl who jumps into things feet first. Mr. Gabriel Oak, a strong, caring and noble man who is loyal to those he loves was brought to life by Matthais Schoenaerts (Suite Française; Rust and Bone; A Little Chaos). The fun loving, loyal and caring assistant to Bathsheba, whom I'd like to have gotten to know more, goes by Liddy and she was played by Jessica Barden (Lullaby; Hanna; Coronation Street). Good ol' Michael Sheen (Masters of Sex; Underworld: Rise of the Lycans; Frost/Nixon) played Mr Boldwood, a polite, cautious and driven man who has a slightly unnerving approach to dealing with matters of the heart. And the captivating Bathsheba Everdene was played by an actor who can do no wrong in my eyes - Carey Mulligan (Inside Llewyn Davis; Shame; Never Let Me Go). There is not a lack of characters to root for in this story, some of whom I have not mentioned, as each had their own obstacles to conquer and make for a very entertaining watch.
* * * *
One day I will attempt to read the book to have a deeper appreciation for the film but until then I shall quickly summarise all I have waffled on about above. Far From the Madding Crowd is an film adaptation of Thomas Hardy's book of the same title that is filled with drama, beautiful scenery, loss, somewhat complicated love stories and a pinch of humour. If you do watch it I'd like to hear what your thoughts on it are.
Mo x