This beautiful period drama has been listed in Vogue’s ranking of the “most sumptuous period dramas on Netflix”. Lady Chatterley’s Lover is a historical romantic drama film directed by Laure de Clermont-Tonnerre from a screenplay by David Magee, released in 2022.
It is the second American adaptation and the sixth overall adaptation; previous versions have included two for BBC television and two French productions all based on the novel of the same name by D. H. Lawrence. This adaptation stars Emma Corrin and Jack O’Connell. The film’s synopsis reads: “Marrying Sir Clifford Chatterley, Connie’s life of wealth and privilege seems set as she takes the title of Lady Chatterley. Yet this idealistic union gradually becomes an incarceration when Clifford returns from the First World War with injuries that have left him unable to walk.
“When she meets and falls for Oliver Mellors, the gamekeeper on the Chatterley family estate, their secret trysts lead her to a sensual, sexual awakening.
“But as their affair becomes the subject of local gossip. Connie faces a life-altering decision: follow her heart or return to her husband and endure what Edwardian society expects of her.”
On the film, Vogue said: “In between wild swimming, muddy trysts in the wilderness and dancing naked in the rain, Constance Chatterley is dressed in authentic pieces from the era as well as floaty, bohemian, ’20s-inspired looks from a range of contemporary brands including Zimmermann and Vilshenko.
“The effect is subtly subversive, singling out our protagonist as a woman unquestionably ahead of her time; a free spirit in a sea of stiff jackets and starched shirts.”
Lady Chatterley’s Lover was met with postive reviews upon release and its 86% rating from the critics of Rotten Tomatoes reflects that. The critic’s consensus reads: “Arguably the best screen version of this oft-adapted tale, Lady Chatterley’s Lover sets itself apart with solid acting and a refreshingly frank treatment of the story’s mature themes.”
One fan said: “Sensual portrayal of a free spirit named Lady Chatterley! The plot keeps one engaged in anticipation.”
Lady Chatterley’s Lover is available to watch now on streaming service, Netflix.
