Robert Powell stars in BBC's 1971 adaptation by Hugh David of Thomas Hardy's most bitter and controversial novel.

Robert Powell stars as the doomed Jude Fawley in this uncompromising BBC adaptation of Thomas Hardy's Victorian-set masterpiece. 

Jude Fawley is born into rural poverty in Victorian England, where everyone has a fixed place in society. He becomes a penniless stone carver, is tricked into a loveless marriage and forced to give up dreams of university education to improve his stake in life.

His dreams shattered, Jude lashes out and his life spirals out of control. His wife deserts him, and he begins a scandalous affair with his cousin Sue Bridehead

What the press said:

"A superb adaptation...the BBC at its best" - Choice Magazine