Far From the Madding Crowd (12A)

Four is a Madding Crowd This adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s ‘love square’ tale falls flat

We repair or replace: • Windows, doors & conservatories • Replacement of misted sealed units • New door panels and cat flaps fitted • Adjustments for windows &

doors that don’t shut • Replacement of faulty hinges, locks

& handles etc. • All types of glazing undertaken • We install new kitchen & bathroom

splash backs girl Fanny (Juno Temple).

These three suitors leave Bathsheba in an emotional whirl and when Boldwood offers her financial security as his bride, she turns to brooding Gabriel for advice.

“I need someone who’s objective, indifferent,” Fanny tells the shepherd.

“Then I’m afraid you’re asking the • Measure the height and the width

from the inside • Call us on 01895 622 207 or drop in for your quote We supply and fit only the finest quality. Windows • Doors • Conservatories • Porches • Composite & Bi-folding Doors We welcome you to come and visit our showroom: 39 Victoria Road, Ruislip Manor HA4 9AB. Open Mon to Sat 9am-5pm Call now on • Email: Website: wrong man,” pointedly responds Gabriel. Anchored by Mulligan’s nuanced performance, Far From The Madding Crowd is a visually arresting, but ultimately anaemic portrait of rural desires.

Schoenaerts wrestles in vain with a West Country accent, while Sheen and Sturridge have limited screen time to match fond memories of Peter Finch and Terence Stamp in respective roles in the 1967 film.

While Vinterberg’s vision, filmed on location in pastoral Dorset, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire, lacks emotional heft, it packs a mighty visual punch thanks to cinematographer Charlotte Bruus Christensen.

Rolling landscapes look invitingly wild and untamed, bathed largely in natural light, and the nascent beauty of leading lady Mulligan shines through the artfully composed muck and grime.