Silas Marner (1985)

Ominous music, misty vales, and the fixed gaze of entranced eyes set a somber mood at the opening of this 1985 made-for-TV adaptation of Silas Marner, the classic George Eliot (1819-1880) tale of greed and redemption set in early 19th century England. Ben Kingsley wears the threadbare mantle of Marner, a linen weaver exiled by church members in Lantern Yard after they falsely accuse him of theft. Book lovers know the rest of the tale: how Marner resettles in Raveloe, shuns the world, becomes a coin-hoarding miser, and redeems himself by rearing an abandoned child. But even those who have read the book will surely enjoy this video version of the novel, for it superbly depicts what readers can only imagine: Marner's lonely days in his shadowy cottage, his greed at the sight of his money hoard, his despondency at its theft, his mysterious trances, and his quiet joy at caring for a little girl whose golden hair teaches him the real meaning of "treasure." In all ways, Kingsley is a perfect Marner: Slight of frame, spare of words, simple, complicated, cold, warm. The film is rich in symbolism and imagery. Skies brood, fireplaces glow. The poorest of the poor are wealthy with love. And Marner's loom thumps and clacks with the steady rhythm of hope. The film pays close attention to period detail, presenting clopping horses, magnificent castles, lively jigs, country church bells, and the wedding of commoners who enjoy being commoners. Carl Davis enhances the atmosphere with a music score mimicking the moods of the characters and settings. And the supporting actors undergird Kingsley's splendid performance with wonderful performances of their own. The film is ideal for English students -- or for anyone who enjoys a good movie that enchants and enthralls. ~ Mike Cummings, All Movie Guide