Tess (1979)
In 19th-century England a peasant named John Durbeyfield discovers he descends from a noble family, the d'Urbervilles. He sends his eldest daughter Tess to live with Alec d'Urberville, a rich cousin. It soon emerges that the illustrious name was purchased by Alec's father. Tess is seduced by Alec and gives birth to a child that dies in infancy. Whilst attempting to escape from her destiny, she meets a pastor's son named Angel Clare. He falls in love with her and they get married. On their wedding night, Tess reveals her past to him. He cannot forgive her and deserting her, goes off to Brazil. A year later Angel discovers that Tess has become Alec's mistress. Driven to despair, Tess kills her lover and leaves to be with the only man she has ever been passionately in love with her husband.
| Status: | Normal |
|---|---|
| Run time: | 165mins |
| Origin: | FRANCE |
| Aspect Ratio: |
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Member Reviews (14)
14 Member
Reviews
Pavel
says
Looks like I'm the only one criticising here...
I haven't read the novel, I only can compare this movie to another movies about Tess (there are plenty of them) and describe my perception in general. I'm not a fault-finding person, and I like this sort of stories...but...honestly, Kinski's Tess seems a silly girl (bearly talks, never smiles and always has a blank look) whose unlogical actions evoke no feeling of pity towards her (why kill if she could have simply left him?). The story of a dull girl taking unjustified actions - this is the only "aftertaste" the movie have left in my mind.
David S.
says
I was surprised how good this is. It is long but it is consistently engaging and thoughtful.
Mark L.
says
An excellent rendition of the famous novel by Thomas Hardy. The difficulties of finding love and a stable life when you are from the lower classes of 19th century England.
John N.
says
I happily agree with everything David Stephenson says about this movie. The production team deservedly won 3 Oscars and Polanski's well-known drive to achieve perfection is apparent everywhere . The story, just like the Hardie novel, unfolds at a leisurely pace but never fails to surprise you by the turn of events. The scenes of rural life with not a town in sight and the back-breaking work endured by ordinary country folk, are quite fascinating and add an extra dimension to an absorbing story.
Allan K.
says
Gordon M.
says
It is a classic tale, but you have to feel for poor Tess. If ever there was an innocent victim of cruel circumstance she qualifies. Rather too depressing.
Elly B.
says
Good look at the way of life and morals a long time ago. Sad story otherwise.
David Stephensen
says
This must be one of the most successful adaptations of a Victorian novel in history. Those who loved the book are amazed to find how true the movie iis to the original.
Kinski is superb. Who, at the age of 17, almost untested as an actor, can perform a major heart-rending role and also master a regional accent in a language that is not her mother tongue? Well, I couldn't have, anyway.
Aderito P.
says
Kornelis V.
says
Barbara C.
says
i injoyed the movie very much
Alison M.
says
Bruce R.
says
Ben H.
says
I had not seen this film since it was released in 1979. Mostly it has stood the test of time well, though it is a little kitsch in places. Kinski is quite stunning and whilst she is occasionally a bit wooden, the casting fits the Hardy character so perfectly that it remains in my view a pretty faithful adaptataion of the text. Lovingly, if somewhat sentimentally shot and with a mesmerising supporting cast, its a fine film and very rewarding experience if as little hard work.