Far From the Madding Crowd

Danish director Thomas Vinterberg's beautifully lensed adaptation of Thomas Hardy's classic 19th-century novel centers on defiantly independent, free-spirited Bathsheba Everdene (Carey Mulligan), whose innate dignity is diminished by selfish ambition and her smirking, impetuous thoughtlessness. On a small farm in southwest England, Bathsheba discovers that she's inherited her uncle's vast estate, a turn of events that makes her the reluctant recipient of three marriage proposals. The first is from rugged shepherd Gabriel Oaks (Matthias Schoenaerts), who becomes her moral compass and whose name denotes strength and stability. Second is her wealthy, honorable, middle-aged neighbor, William Boldwood (Michael Sheen), who offers her financial security—with poignant persistence. Last (and least appealing) is mercurial Sgt. Frank Troy (Tom Sturridge), a charming cad whom Bathsheba recklessly marries, a decision that she immediately regrets. This melodramatic version, which unfortunately eliminates much essential character development, pales in comparison with John Schlesinger's 1967 film starring Julie Christie. But while less effective dramatically, this is lovely to look at with its sheep-dipping, hay-stacking, and windswept moors. A strong optional purchase. [Note: Blu-ray extras include deleted scenes (18 min.); production featurettes on “Adapting” (5 min.), “The Look” (5 min.), and “The Locations” (5 min.); the character segments “The Suitors” (4 min.), “Bathsheba Everdene” with Carey Mulligan (4 min.), “Gabriel Oak” (3 min.), “William Boldwood” (3 min.), and “Sergeant Troy” (3 min.); “Thomas Vinterberg” on the director (4 min.); a photo gallery; and bonus digital and UltraViolet copies of the film. Bottom line: a solid extras package for an uneven adaptation.] (S. Granger)