Under the Greenwood Tree

Being in the mood for a period romance, I was a bit cautious when I realized this was an adaptation of a Thomas Hardy story. They tend to end unhappily, especially when there are divided love interests. Fortunately, Under the Greenwood Tree is light, even humorous, in parts. Truly I had no idea who Fancy would marry, the wealthy farmer, the austere parson, or the poor (yet brash and handsome) harrier. In the tradition of Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, there is the mix of position, miscommunication, and the delightfulness of authenticity of period. A treat to watch. The acting, script, and setting all played well together. If you adore period romances, then this should go on your list to watch.

This film, although made for TV, will be a classic, just like the 1995 Pride and Predudice directed by Simon Langton. The sets seemed remarkably authentic, and all the cast were excellent. I particularly enjoyed every scene in which James Murray appeared, he is gorgeous. The chemistry between the two main characters is clear for all to see. Ben Miles who played Parson Maybold was very believable and you could actually feel his inner turmoil, acting at its best. I think that this film could be on your next Christmas present list, either to enjoy yourself or to buy for that very special Aunt, or Mother. I have watched it 3 times in two days.

Under The Greenwood Tree is a very enjoyable film that tells the story of three men falling in love with a new teacher in the village. it shows how she changes within the story and it is a very good adaption of the novel by the classic author; Thomas Hardy. It is very strange watching this film when you live in jersey as all of the locations are familiar to you. I would have given a 10 but it didn't have the dog running through the may pole fair- which took a very long time to film as the dog was more interested in the chickens! Also i found the story moves quite quickly, but if it was made longer the audience may lose interest. at least this way you can finish watching it in excitement as it is a perfect drama for Christmas. it shows all the for seasons with great detail.

Filming Under The Greenwood Tree was a great experience and was the best summer of my life I made some good friends and thought all the crew was great. The film made me realise that the crew are the most important element to a film and i would just like 2 say thanks 2 them all! xx

Overall I liked this film: it was visually beautiful and the story was enthralling. The one criticism I have, and it is a big one, is that Keeley Hawes is miscast as Fancy Day. She is too old and world-wise. I understand she was born in 1977, which would make her 29 when playing the part. Hardy describes Fancy as "a young girl","oscillating between courage and shyness". At times the lines around Hawes' eyes and mouth give away her age, but the main failure is that she comes across as a self-assured, mature woman rather than an uncertain girl beginning her adult life, dominated by her father and dismayed by the attentions of three suitors.

As the designer on the production I take exception to the comments displayed in the ALstubbino review of "Under the Greenwood Tree". I can tell the writer of the last review that great care and extensive research was undertaken to achieve the sets and decor on the production, down to the smallest detail. I don't know what or where or how he/she has based their negative opinion perhaps they would like to enlighten us all as to where we went wrong!!. I enjoyed the production and for a TV drama think the production value and direction excellent. Under the greenwood tree is a fine adaptation of the original Hardy novel , not the novel itself, and as a TV drama stands up well, I would recommend it to anyone as a good family film.