The Hireling

The Hireling is a 1973 drama film directed by Alan Bridges and based on a novel by L.P. Hartley. Starring Robert Shaw, Sarah Miles, and Peter Egan, the film depicts the relationship between a wealthy widow and her chauffeur in post-World War I England.

The film opens with Lady Franklin (Miles) attending her husband's funeral. She seems deeply affected by his death, looking lost and alone as she makes her way through the mourners. Shortly afterward, she begins to feel suffocated by her life in high society and decides to take a break at a rural health spa. There, she meets Steven Ledbetter (Shaw), a former soldier who now works as a chauffeur for hire.

Lady Franklin is immediately drawn to Steven's rough charm and hires him to be her personal driver. As they spend more time together, a deep and complicated relationship develops between the two. Lady Franklin becomes consumed by her feelings for Steven, even as he continues to maintain his professional distance.

Meanwhile, Steven is grappling with his own demons. Scarred by his experiences in the war, he is struggling to find his place in society. He begins to feel an unexpected kinship with Lady Franklin, as she too is struggling with her own grief and loneliness.

As their relationship deepens, Lady Franklin starts to make major changes in her life. She buys a new car and begins to exert her independence in small ways, much to the discomfort of her friends and family. But even as she begins to break free from her old life, she realizes that her feelings for Steven may never be reciprocated as she wishes.

The Hireling is a beautifully shot and deeply nuanced film, exploring themes of class, grief, and identity. The performances by Miles and Shaw are outstanding, with Shaw in particular bringing a raw intensity to his role as the conflicted Steven. The film's depiction of post-war England is subtle yet powerful, with Bridges capturing both the stifling glamour of high society and the quiet beauty of the countryside.

Overall, The Hireling is a thoughtful and moving drama that examines the ways in which we seek connection and find solace in unexpected places. The film's exploration of the complex relationship between a wealthy widow and her chauffeur is captivating, offering a poignant glimpse into the human heart.