The Happy Valley

The Happy Valley is a 1986 British drama film directed by Ross Devenish, based on the novel of the same name by Patrick White. The movie stars Denholm Elliott, Holly Aird and Kathryn Pogson, and is set in the Australian outback during the 1920s.

The story revolves around the life of a wealthy English woman named Elizabeth Hunter (played by Holly Aird), who arrives in Australia to start a new life with her new husband, Donald (played by Nicholas Jones). The couple moves to a remote cattle station, where they meet the owner, Sir Harry (played by Denholm Elliott), who is a wealthy, charismatic and eccentric man. Elizabeth soon finds herself fascinated by Sir Harry's lifestyle and the remote beauty of the Australian landscape.

As Elizabeth adapts to her new life in the outback, she begins to uncover dark secrets about her past and the lives of those around her. She soon becomes embroiled in a love triangle between herself, Sir Harry and his estranged wife, Lady Edwina (played by Kathryn Pogson). The tensions between the three of them continue to escalate, ultimately leading to a shocking climax that threatens to tear the happy valley apart.

The movie is a complex portrayal of love, power, and the struggle for redemption in a hostile and unforgiving environment. The stunning cinematography showcases the harsh beauty of the Australian outback, which serves as a metaphor for the difficult emotional landscape of the characters.

The performances in the movie are superb, particularly those of Denholm Elliott and Kathryn Pogson, who deliver nuanced and complex portrayals of their characters. Holly Aird is also impressive as Elizabeth, conveying both vulnerability and strength as she navigates her way through the complex dynamics of the love triangle.

The movie is a compelling exploration of human relationships and the difficulties of finding happiness in a world where love and power are so often intertwined. It also raises important issues about the impact of colonialism and the clash of cultures, as the English characters struggle to understand and adapt to the harsh realities of life in the outback.

Overall, The Happy Valley is an absorbing and thought-provoking movie that will appeal to fans of drama and psychological thrillers. It's a testament to the power of great storytelling and exceptional performances, and is a must-watch for anyone interested in the complexities of the human heart.