Watch Joseph Andrews

Joseph Andrews is a British comedy-drama film directed by Tony Richardson based on the novel of the same name by Henry Fielding, published in 1742. The film was released in 1977 and stars Ann-Margret, Peter Firth, and Michael Hordern in lead roles. The story is set in England in the eighteenth century and centres around Joseph Andrews (Peter Firth), a young man who works as a servant for a wealthy landowner. After being dismissed from his job, he sets out on foot to seek his fortune but quickly finds himself in a series of misadventures and dangerous encounters.

Along the way, he meets the beautiful and virtuous Parson Adams (Michael Hordern), who becomes his friend and travels with him. They encounter a variety of eccentric and intriguing characters, including Lady Booby (Ann-Margret), a wealthy widow who takes a fancy to Joseph and attempts to seduce him.

As Joseph and Parson Adams continue their journey, they face a series of comical and sometimes dangerous situations. They are robbed and threatened by highwaymen and attacked by a group of thugs, but ultimately emerge unscathed. Throughout their adventures, Joseph remains steadfast in his morals and values, despite the temptations and challenges he faces.

The film is a satirical comedy that pokes fun at the societal norms and conventions of eighteenth-century England. It explores themes of love, morality, and social class, and offers a critique of the upper class and their behaviour towards those beneath them.

Ann-Margret delivers a standout performance as Lady Booby, a character who is both fiercely independent and deeply vulnerable. She is a woman of great passion and emotion, whose attempts to seduce Joseph are both comical and heart-wrenching.

Peter Firth is perfectly cast as Joseph Andrews, imbuing the character with a youthful exuberance and a firm sense of his own morality. Michael Hordern is equally impressive as Parson Adams, a wise and compassionate mentor to Joseph.

Overall, Joseph Andrews is a charming and entertaining film that offers a fascinating look at eighteenth-century England while remaining relevant and engaging to modern audiences.