Carey Mulligan and Matthias Schoenaerts star in this adaptation of Thomas Hardy's classic 19th century novel. Gabriel Oak (Schoenaerts) is a humble shepherd who, with his life's savings and a hefty loan, has managed to purchase his very own sheep farm. Gabriel is working hard, perfectly content with his life, when his eyes meet those of Bathsheba Everdene (Mulligan), his new young neighbour who has come to live with her aunt. Although many worlds and classes apart the two have an instant connection and Gabriel quickly proposes marriage. Valuing her independence greatly, Bathsheba refuses Gabriel's proposal and moves away to start anew. However, as they both begin new chapters of their lives, fate endeavours to bring them back together.