The Mill on the Floss (Repackaged) [DVD] [1997]

During lockdown I read the Compact Edition of the Mill on the Floss in the Great Books in Half the Time series. Not having read the complete novel, I decided it probably captured the essentials of the great classic and portrayed the characters rather well. And so I decided I would like to see a filmed version. The one I choose was the most recent and I generally enjoyed it. It was certainly very well acted and filmed and I loved the music. But two hours was too short for some aspects of the story (e.g. Maggie's unruly childhood behaviour, her finding the religious book that induced her repressed mindset) to be adequately explored. I would like to see the acclaimed 1978 adaptation but the DVD is a little pricey. Perhaps at a time when we are having to see many repeats, this and other such classics could be repeated on TV? But Maggie's relationship with her tyrannical brother was well portrayed and I am delighted that the adaptation included the scene where young Maggie attacks her judgmental relatives for berating her parents when they need to be helping them. (My mother and I were in this position with her uncaring brother and jealous sister-law during my teens and I only wish I'd had the guts to retaliate like Maggie did!

I first saw this when it was televised by the BBC years ago. The acting (especially Emily Watson as Maggie ) is very good and it is a lovely adaptation of one of my favourite novels. If I was to find fault it would only be that as an audience we didn't see how the relationship between Stephen and Maggie slowly blossoms into something which is beyond their control. Nonetheless, it is well worth having in your video library and will be something that is watched again and again. Would definitely recommend to all those who enjoy good drama and a good story.

This is one of the worst adaptations of a novel I've seen. Wrong casting, awful directing - two people talking either side of the screen so the middle was a bank wall, for example, and inferior acting. Amazed the BBC produced it.

An excellent Victorian period drama featuring the very accomplished actress Emily Watson, in a story of possession and jealousy. Finished with a sudden and terrible ending which left me feeling very sad for the brother and sister.

I have not been familiar with the 'Mill on the Floss'. I found it beautifully done but was saddened by the ending. That, of course, was George Eliot's design but too abrupt and unsatisfying. That even non swimmers should be drowned in still water with the boat at hand challenger credulity.The company did a marvellous job in getting the DVD to me in quick time. Very efficient. Thanks.

Bought this for my daughters further understanding of the novel which she is doing in her English studies.

Another great.

Total ruined by the screen time being reduced: If you were not aware of the the story line it would be impossible to follow. Fortunately having previously read the book I am aware of the story line but even so I could not really connect some of it. I cannot recommend this DVD.