The 1963 film Tom Jones is a British comedy and an adaptation of Henry Fielding's classic 1749 novel "The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling". It was directed by Tony Richardson and the screenplay was adapted by playwright John Osborne.
The film stars Albert Finney as the title hero, Tom Jones. Tom Jones was one of the most critically acclaimed and popular comedies of its time. It won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The film was produced by Tony Richardson and distributed by United Artists. The running time of the film is 128 minutes. It was released in the United Kingdom and the primary language is English.
The budget for the film was reported to be either $467,000 or $480,000. The box office earnings in the United States and Canada rentals were $17.07 million). The film received positive reviews and is considered one of the best motion pictures of all time. It is praised for its romantic and chivalrous adventures set in 18th-century England. The film features a supporting cast of brilliant British ensemble players and extras.
Plot
The film follows the romantic and chivalrous adventures of Tom Jones, an adopted bastard raised by the kindly Squire Allworthy. The story begins when Squire Allworthy returns to his estate and discovers a baby in his bed.
Believing that one of his maids, Jenny Jones, and his barber, Mr. Partridge, conceived the illegitimate baby out of lust, the squire banishes them. He names the infant Tom Jones and chooses to raise him as his own son. Tom grows up loving the squire like a father.
As Tom Jones grows older, he falls in love with the beautiful Sophie Western. However, their relationship faces numerous obstacles and challenges, including the disapproval of Sophie's father, Squire Western. Tom's romantic and chivalrous nature is tested as he navigates the complexities of love, social class, and societal expectations in 18th-century England.
The film portrays Tom Jones as an incorrigible hero, learning to find happiness in the woods rather than in the study. He embarks on a series of bawdy and episodic adventures, showcasing his rise and the challenges he faces along the way.
Trailer
Cast
- Albert Finney as Tom Jones
- Susannah York as Sophie Western
- Hugh Griffith as Squire Western
- Edith Evans as Miss Western
- Joan Greenwood as Lady Bellaston
- Diane Cilento as Molly Seagrim
- George Devine as Squire Allworthy
- David Tomlinson as Lord Fellamar
- Rosalind Atkinson as Honour
- Angela Baddeley as Mrs. Wilkins
- Wilfrid Lawson as Black George
- Jack MacGowran as Partridge
- Peter Bull as Thwackum
- James Cairncross as Square
- Julian Glover as Northerton
- Lynn Redgrave as Susan
- Rachel Kempson as Bridget Allworthy
- Joyce Redman as Mrs. Waters
- David Warner as Blifil
- Freda Jackson as Mrs. Seagrim
Director: Tony Richardson
Writer: John Osborne
Box Office (Gross USA): $481.4K
Distributor: United Artists, Lopert Pictures Corp., Samuel Goldwyn Company
Genre: Comedy
Release Date (Theaters): Oct 6, 1963
Release Date (Streaming): Mar 9, 2018
Themes and Reception
Themes:
Romance and Love: The film explores themes of romance and love through the central relationship between Tom Jones and Sophie Western. Their love is tested by societal expectations, class differences, and the disapproval of Sophie's father.
Social Class: The film delves into the theme of social class and its impact on relationships and opportunities. Tom, as an adopted bastard, faces challenges and discrimination due to his lower social status.
Satire and Comedy: "Tom Jones" is known for its satirical and comedic elements. It satirizes the societal norms and conventions of 18th-century England, often through exaggerated and humorous situations.
Identity and Self-Discovery: The film explores Tom Jones' journey of self-discovery and finding his true identity. He navigates various relationships and experiences, ultimately learning about himself and his place in the world.
Reception:
- "Tom Jones" was well-received by both critics and audiences. It won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director (Tony Richardson), Best Adapted Screenplay (John Osborne), and Best Original Score (John Addison).
- The film was praised for its energetic and playful style, capturing the spirit of the novel by Henry Fielding on which it is based.
- Albert Finney's performance as Tom Jones was widely acclaimed, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
- The film's blend of humor, romance, and social commentary resonated with audiences, making it a commercial success.
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