Review of Adam Bede (1992) by Bill D — 17 Jul 2017

BBC's beautifully-photographed film version of George Eliot's complex 1859 novel takes liberties with the book that add little value. Hetty is a hard role to play under any circumstances, but Patsy Kensit, 24 at the time of the film, is miscast as the 17-year-old Hetty, and the film draws her with none of the immature, childishness necessary to understanding Hetty's character.

The flash-forward at the beginning of the film unnecessarily prejudices the viewer against her character, as well. The film insufficiently develops Dinah's spiritual and comforting role, and early in the film overplays her role as a love interest.

Still, the film seeks to tell Eliot's story with sensitivity and captures much of its moving drama.