Keeley Hawes' forgotten period drama Under the Greenwood Tree is perfect for Jane Austen fans

If, like me, you’re a devoted Jane Austen superfan, you’ve likely already exhausted every screen adaptation worth your time, from the BBC’s iconic 1995 Pride and Prejudice to spin-offs like Miss Austen and The Other Bennet Sister.

While we may all be eagerly counting down the days until Netflix’s upcoming Pride and Prejudice series arrives later this year, there’s a hidden gem on Prime Video guaranteed to win over any Austen lover.

Netflix’s adaptation of Pride and Prejudice arrives later this year

Keeley Hawes takes the lead in the 2005 production of Under the Greenwood Tree, an adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s 1872 novel about a young woman navigating the affections of three suitors in a rural village.

Boasting a respectable 73 per cent Rotten Tomatoes score alongside glowing audience reviews, this delightful film is a must-watch for any Austen fan. Keep reading to find out more.

Recommended videoYou may also likeWATCH: Keeley Hawes also stars in Miss Austen – have you seen it?

What is Under the Greenwood Tree about?

Set in the 19th century, the drama follows Fancy Day, a school teacher who moves to the village of Mellstock to care for her father and finds herself torn between three suitors: a wealthy parson (Ben Miles), a rich landowner (Steve Pemberton) and a poor, but handsome, labourer Dick Dewey (James Murray).

Keeley Hawes wearing a black blazer — Keeley Hawes leads the cast

The Prime Video logline reads: “Amidst the surrounding farms and woodlands of the idyllic village of Mellstock, southern England, a love story grows between local boy Dick Dewey and beautiful schoolteacher Fancy Day. But in seeking her hand in marriage penniless Dick finds himself in competition with other more likely suitors, will true love win out or will the social traditions of Victorian England determine Fancy’s future?”

What have viewers said about Under the Greenwood Tree?

Two decades on, the film continues to garner praise from audiences.

Taking to social media, one viewer said the show features one of the “steamiest period drama kisses ever,” while another recommended the film to fans of Pride and Prejudice.

Sian Brooke smiling, wearing a pink blouse and gold earrings, at a BAFTA event. — Sian Brooke also stars in the film

A third fan described the drama as a “charming adaptation,” while another added: “If you like Paltrow’s Emma or any Austen/Dickens movies, or just enjoy British period dramas, this is something you will enjoy.”

Who stars in Under the Greenwood Tree?

Keeley Hawes leads the cast as Fancy Day.

Ben Miles smiling at a premiere event — Ben Miles portrays Parson Maybold

She’s joined by a cast of familiar faces, including James Murray, Terry Mortimer, Richard Leaf, Ben Miles, Tony Haygarth, Jane Wheldon, Sian Brooke and Ellie Thackeray.

Under the Greenwood Tree is available to stream on Prime Video now.

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Contents

What is Under the Greenwood Tree about? What have viewers said about Under the Greenwood Tree?Who stars in Under the Greenwood Tree?

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