5 top films to watch this Month

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This lovely retelling of Thomas Hardy’s novel is up there with the best of such adaptations, easily bearing comparison with the classic 1967 version. Carey Mulligan plays Bathsheba Everdene, who inherits a farm in the village of Weatherbury and tries to establish herself while juggling her feelings towards three diverse suitors: the repressed William Boldwood (Michael Sheen), the loyal Gabriel Oak (Matthias Schoenaerts) and the dashing Sergeant Troy (Tom Sturridge). The top-class performances director Thomas Vinterberg—famous for the low-budget Festen—coaxes from these leads is crucial to the success of this adaptation, as is the low-key but beautiful cinematography. Highly recommended.

Despite the best efforts of friends and family, confirmed singleton Nancy (Lake Bell) despairs of finding true love until a blind-date mix-up introduces her to newly separated Jack (Simon Pegg), with chaotic consequences. There’s nothing new about the plot, but the chemistry between the leads and a sharp script elevates this way above the average rom-com—and, at a crisp 88 minutes, it never outstays its welcome.

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Set in London on V E Day in 1945, this semi-fictional drama follows the escapades of Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret (Sarah Gadon and Bel Powley) as they set about joining the victory celebrations in Trafalgar Square, to the despair of their royal parents (fine supporting turns from Rupert Everett and Emily Watson). Plenty of liberties are taken with the truth in this undeniably silly romp, but there’s still a lot to fun to be had.

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Although adapted from a Ruth Rendell story, this quirky French film is difficult to categorise. Following the death of his wife, David (Romain Duris) turns to his friend Claire (Anais Demoustier) for support, then shocks her with his habit for cross-dressing. This identity-crisis drama combines black comedy farce, romance and tragedy, although it’s not for everyone.

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South London teenager Nicholas is an aspiring, bespectacled musician who’s watching all the cool kids get the glory at school. When he discovers his mysterious neighbour (Luke Perry) is a legendary guitarist who supposedly died eight years ago, the two strike up a deal: Nick will keep schtum if Steve teaches him all he knows.