Tamara Drewe

An aspiring journalist returns to a quiet English village to spend time in the house she grew up in, which is being refurbished for sale. Her homecoming unsettles a tight knit circle of locals where old friendships, rivalries and affections still simmer. As she reconnects with former neighbors, rivals and lovers, the town becomes a stage for flirtatious misunderstandings, sharp witticisms and the politics of who knows whom. The village gossip mill runs hot, every encounter casting a new light on the past and on the choices that shaped the present. The film blends humor with warmth, turning a simple return into a lively portrait of small town life.

Directed by Stephen Frears, Tamara Drewe adapts Posy Simmonds and Moira Buffini's graphic novel. The film translates the stylish mood of the source to the English countryside with a witty ensemble cast.

Tamara Drewe earned about twelve million dollars worldwide, reflecting a modest but solid performance for a contemporary British comedy romance.

This adaptation stands out for its glossy take on village life and a strong ensemble led by Gemma Arterton as Tamara. It merges sharp dialogue with playful romantic entanglements and a visual love of the English countryside.

Critics offered mixed notes, praising Frears's light touch and the performances while noting uneven pacing at times. The film explores identity, desire and town gossip with humor and warmth, and it frames home as both memory and temptation.