The French Lieutenant’s Woman

Set against the backdrop of Victorian England, this 1981 British drama features Meryl Streep and Jeremy Irons in captivating performances adapted from John Fowles’ novel. The story revolves around Anna, portrayed by Streep, and Mike, played by Irons, who find themselves embroiled in a complex love affair.

Anna takes on the role of Sarah Woodruff, a woman whose life becomes intertwined with that of Charles Henry Smithson, a biologist engaged to another. As Sarah grapples with her feelings and societal expectations, she enters a passionate romance with Smithson, which forces both characters to confront their desires and the constraints of their circumstances.

Caught between loyalty and longing, the narrative explores themes of love, betrayal, and the struggle for personal freedom in a restrictive society. With a rich historical setting, the film delves into the emotional turmoil faced by its characters, offering a poignant reflection on the nature of love and the choices that define us.