'Lorna Doone' is a 17th century costume drama set in England. The story revolves around two families--the Doones and the Ridds who are locked in a bitter feud against one another. John Ridd and Lorna Doone are the star-crossed lovers who must overcome insurmountable obstacles in order to remain together.

'Lorna Doone' is primarily a love story, so it's vital that the roles of the principals--Lorna and John are properly romantic. Clive Owen plays the role of yeoman, John Ridd, and Polly Walker plays a credible Lorna. I usually really enjoy Owen's performances (his best is Jack in 'Croupier'), but as John Ridd, Owen plays the role with a certain slack-mouthed dim-wittedness that is downright unappealing. Owen just doesn't fit the mould as the hero, and so the film suffers from a basic weakness overall. The film also diminishes the wonderful novel by R.D. Blackmore into little more than a formulaic foray into youthful romantic yokel love--such as it is. 'Lorna Doone' was my favourite book as a child, but by deleting the historical significance and events that surrounded the lovers, this made-for-television film fails to capture the novel's power. The costumes are good (apart from those ridiculous witch hats Mrs. Ridd and her daughter wear), and the scenery is spectacular. Sean Bean plays the dastardly Carver Doone with obvious relish.