Often regarded as cinematic in their scope and power, the novels of Thomas Hardy have inspired some of the most absorbing adaptations of fiction for the big screen. This collection of essays by
prominent international Hardy scholars explores both successful and unsuccessful attempts to transfer Hardy's novels to the screen. It provides a fascinating illustrated history of the
interpretation and recreation of Hardy's work, from the silent era to television. The essays highlight the challenging nature of Hardy's work, which finds its most powerful reflection in films
by controversial directors such as Roman Polanski and Michael Winterbottom.