Overall, the movie was very close to the Thomas Hardy novel from which it takes it plot. However, one thing got to me: Jude doesn't die in the end. I found the ending unsatisfying. I understand why the filmmakers didn't include the stillborn baby, for there was already so much tragedy, but Jude needed to die. I mean, Tess died, Michael Henchard (Mayor of Casterbridge) died, and Jude died. It brings completion to the novel/story--Jude finally escaped the horrors of his life.
All in all, the movie was well executed. The actors (especially the actor who portrayed Jude, who I've only seen in one other movie--the modern Othello done by BBC/PBS) were well cast. I just wish they hadn't made that one change.
All in all, the movie was well executed. The actors (especially the actor who portrayed Jude, who I've only seen in one other movie--the modern Othello done by BBC/PBS) were well cast. I just wish they hadn't made that one change.