Tamara Drewe (2010)

Through the years, Thomas Hardy’s romantic novel “Far from the Madding Crowd” (1874) has been adapted for the big screen. Most notable are the same-named versions by John Schlesinger in 1967 (starring Alan Bates, Julie Christie, Peter Finch and Terence Stamp) and Thomas Vinterberg’s 2015 remake (featuring Carey Mulligan, Matthias Schoenaerts, Michael Sheen, and Tom Sturridge). In between these dramas, Stephen Frears gave audiences a fresh spin with the romantic comedy Tamara Drewe (2010). Thanks to Moira Buffini’s modern retelling, this R rated flick sees the titular heroine (Gemma Arterton) as a young journalist. After her mum dies, Tamara returns to her family home in the English countryside to get it ready for sale. While doing so, the heiress finds herself in hot demand by the blokes of Dorset. Vying for her affection (among other things) are rock band drummer Ben Sergeant (Dominic Cooper) and crime novelist Nicholas Hardiment (Roger Allam) who happens to be married. Considering that fact (as well as images of Mr. Cooper’s naked chest in bed) we think Tamara should opt for Mr. Sergeant. But then, we haven’t factored in her childlhood crush Andy Cobb (Luke Evans). Since he loves her for who she truly is (and since he’s a total hunk), maybe she should go with him. This choice would ensure a happy ending for the characters on screen. As for your happy ending? Go back to the 44-minute mark to have another glance at Dominic’s bare abs. The Tamara Drewe dude is making us Tamara Drool!