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Ken Russell’s Lady Chatterley Gets BBC Four Airing Wednesday 14 February 2024
On BBC Four on Wednesday 14 February 2024 at 10.00pm, viewers will have the opportunity to revisit Ken Russell’s adaptation of D.H. Lawrence’s iconic novel, Lady Chatterley’s Lover. Originally broadcast on BBC One in June 1993, this four-part series received high ratings (some 12 million viewers, huge for the time) and was celebrated for its passionate performances.
This comparatively restrained work by Russell offers much more than a conventional love story. The narrative unfolds over four episodes, each exploring different facets of the complex relationships and desires within the characters’ lives.
In Episode 1, we are introduced to Lady Chatterley (Joely Richardson), a woman trapped in a sexless marriage and burdened by her husband’s (James Wilby) paralysis from the waist down. Seeking solace from her stifled existence, she begins taking walks through the family estate where she encounters Mellors (Sean Bean), an attractive gamekeeper who captivates her attention.
Episode 2 (10.50pm) delves deeper into Lady Chatterley’s growing connection with Mellors as they embark upon a secret affair and find passion amidst the woods. Meanwhile, Clifford questions his wife about rumors of her pregnancy, leading to strained conversations between them.
As Episode 3 (11.45pm) unfolds, Connie confesses to Mellors that she would choose to remain with him in their cottage indefinitely rather than return to her husband’s side. Before departing to visit her father and sister in Mandalay, she shares the news that she is carrying Mellors’ child.
Finally, Episode 4 (Thursday 12:35am) brings us to the conclusion of this adaptation of D.H. Lawrence’s infamous novel. While Connie finds respite by relaxing at the seaside, dramatic developments unfurl back home.
The stellar cast includes Sean Bean, Joely Richardson and James Wilby who bring depth and nuance to their roles under Russell’s direction.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this adaptation of Lady Chatterley’s Lover on BBC Four, airing from 10.00pm onwards on Wednesday 14 February 2024.