Under the Greenwood Tree

Under the Greenwood Tree, a British-made drama, was first premiered in 2005, crafted from the weaving threads of period romance, rustic charm, and rural folklore of Thomas Hardy’s novel of the same name. The standout performances of Keeley Hawes, James Murray, and Terry Mortimer transport the audience back to pastoral England during the mid-1800s. The film, somewhere between idyllic romance and the struggle between traditional and modern complexities, is a must-watch for any fan of Thomas Hardy, cultural tourism, or period dramas.

The beauty of Under the Greenwood Tree lies as much in its setting as it does in its narrative. The rural landscapes of the English countryside are showcased through elegant cinematography – verdant pastures, quaint cottages, and the distinct, characteristic church that serves as an integral backdrop to the storyline. This scenery acts as a lush panorama upon which the film’s characters embody their intricate lives.

In the central role of Fancy Day, Keeley Hawes passes through a gamut of emotions, giving life to this complex and often contradictory character. She is the new schoolmistress in the village of Mellstock, a character of charm as well as ambition, caught at a crossroads between her rural origins and desire for new social ascensions. She is enticing and elusive, equally rooted and ready to fly. Hawes' nuanced performance gives Fancy depth and relatability, providing a compelling exploration of a woman’s place in society in the Victorian era.

Opposite Hawes, James Murray portrays Dick Dewy, a humble and earnest church musician and woodsman. Murray's portrayal of Dewy is heartfelt and evocative, making the audience root for him despite his modest status. Dewy’s passion for Fancy introduces the core conflict of the film - indicting the social conventions of 19th century English society, while showcasing the timeless struggle of heart versus status.

Terry Mortimer provides a memorable supporting performance in his role as old Reuben Dewy, father to Dick. His portrayal lends a symbol of traditional values, folk wit, and elder wisdom to the film's narrative. The nuanced father-son dynamics between him and Dick add texture to the plot, reflecting the generational gap between traditional and modern perspectives.

The thematic elements underpinning Under the Greenwood Tree revolve around unvarnished love, social standing, the tension between freedom and conformity, and rural traditions versus urban progression – echoing Hardy's original vision. The storyline resonates with idyllic imagery and questions the impact of personal ambitions on romantic relations, resounding these themes with subtlety and intelligence.

As the plot progresses, the film becomes a portrayal of human nature and societal norms. It raises questions about societal expectations of ambition and love, especially pertaining to women, and presents the audience with the challenges presented when such expectations come into conflict with personal desires.

One of the most overarching themes of Under the Greenwood Tree is the concept of change: both embraced and resisted. Throughout the film, viewers witness the changing dynamics of the small village as it tries to resist the impending influences of modernity and cultural shifts. This is particularly evident through the church band led by old Reuben, who becomes a symbol of resistance to urban influences replacing the rustic and traditional.

Music plays a vital part in the narrative of Under the Greenwood Tree, illuminating the cultural value and social functions of the time. From the rustic choir expressions to the hymnal melodies, music operates as a binding thread - connecting the characters and being part of their lives—in joy, sorrow, courtship, and perturbation.

Directed by Nicholas Laughland, Under the Greenwood Tree is a poignant, charming, and often thoughtful movie. The atmosphere of the film captures the balancing act between a simpler, peaceful past and a "progressive" yet uncertain future, making it simultaneously a bittersweet love story and a cultural narrative.

In sum, Under the Greenwood Tree is a movie that appeals to fans of period drama, cultural narratives, and those who appreciate incredible performances. It is a visceral, authentic, and heartfelt adaptation of Thomas Hardy's novel, showcasing the beauty of rural England and transporting its audience to a different time—a time of transition and emotions.