Cast
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Nastassja Kinski
as Tess Durbeyfield
Peter Firth
as Angel Clare
Leigh Lawson
as Alec d'Urberville
John Collin
as John Durbeyfield
Rosemary Martin
as Mrs. Durbeyfield
Carolyn Pickles
as Marian
Richard Pearson
as Vicar of Marlott
David Markham
as Reverend Mr. Clare
Pascale de Boysson
as Mrs. Clare
Suzanna Hamilton
as Izz Huett
Caroline Embling
as Retty
Tony Church
as Parson Tringham
Lesley Dunlop
as Girl in Henhouse
Sylvia Coleridge
as Mrs. d'Urberville
Fred Bryant
as Dairyman Crick
Crew
Director
- Roman Polanski
Producer
- Claude Berri
Reviews
Wuchak
_**Bringing in the sheaves stuck between a demon and an angel**_
During the Long Depression of the 1870-80s in Blackmore Vale, southern England, a peasant family discovers that they are nobility and thus their oldest daughter, an extraordinarily beautiful woman (Nastassja Kinski), is sent to meet the well-to-do family. She is eventually pitted between the interest of two very different men (Leigh Lawson and Peter Firth).
Roman Polanski's "Tess" (1979) is based on Thomas Hardy's 1891 novel "Tess of the d'Urbervilles." Polanski was inspired to make the film because his late wife, Sharon Tate, gave him the book suggesting it would make a great film and she was interested in playing the title role. Unfortunately, it turned out to be the last time Roman saw his pregnant wife alive as she was heading back to the USA while he stayed in Europe to complete a picture. She was murdered by the Manson psychos on August 9th, 1969. This movie is dedicated to her during the opening credits.
The two male characters are basically two sides of the same bad coin: one is amoral while the other is excessively moral. There is a scene in the book where Alec shows up to talk to the workers at harvest time wearing a cape with an upturned collar and carrying a pitchfork. The symbolism is obvious. Meanwhile Angel's figurative character is plain from his name. What's the point? Just as it's possible to be excessively bad, a person can be too good. The bible makes this observation in Ecclesiastes 7:16-18. They are two extremes and both have the power to destroy the lives of those they influence. To be expected, Angel eventually seeks to make things right whereas Alec arrogantly continues in his nonchalant amorality, which ultimately ushers in doom. The immutability of this is symbolized by Stonehenge.
While a lot of people eventually swing to one extreme perspective/lifestyle or another, e.g. moralist, hedonist, atheist, most people are caught somewhere in the middle, uncertain and searching, like Tess.
To enjoy this piece you have to brace yourself for a movie that has the confidence to take its time and tell its tale. You'll discover Victorian curiosities, pastoral mundaneness, beauty, lust, love, idiocy, humility, penitence, arrogance and tragedy.
The film runs 3 hours, 6 minutes, with the original theatrical version running 2 minutes less and the DVD 2 hours, 52 minutes. It was shot entirely in France.
GRADE: A-/B+
Sep 24, 2020
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Tess examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Roman Polanski brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1979, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Tess took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $12.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 172 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 197 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 1948 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 268 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1979, when this film was released:
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Tess shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike People in the Summer Night, which focuses more on action than character development, Tess offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Smilla's Sense of Snow and Nineteen Eighty-Four explore similar territory, Tess stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 6, 1979
- Runtime: 2h 52m
- Budget: $12,000,000
- Revenue: $20,101,247
Where to Watch
