The French Lieutenant's Woman

Where to Watch The French Lieutenant's Woman (1981) (Legally)

She was lost from the moment she saw him.
Aug 28, 1981 GB 124 min R
6.5 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
243 votes
Where can I watch “The French Lieutenant's Woman” legally?
We don’t host streams or downloads. Below are legal provider hints for the US region first, with a fallback for other English-speaking regions if available.

US providers

Streaming
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English-region fallback

Found availability signals for: GB

Where to watch “The French Lieutenant's Woman” (1981) legally online? See US options first, with English-region fallbacks.

What to expect (spoiler-free)

If you’re considering “ (1981), this quick guide summarizes the essentials.

Expect a Drama, Romance, History blend, with a runtime close to 124 minutes.

Top billed names include Meryl Streep, Jeremy Irons, Hilton McRae, Lynsey Baxter.

For families, checking the local age rating is recommended before watching.

Topics & keywords

adultery, based on novel or book, lieutenant, love, tragedy, dorset

Official trailer

Watch the official trailer on YouTube

Plot

In this story-within-a-story, Anna is an actress starring opposite Mike in a period piece about the forbidden love between their respective characters, Sarah and Charles. Both actors are involved in serious relationships, but the passionate nature of the script leads to an off-camera love affair as well. While attempting to maintain their composure and professionalism, Anna and Mike struggle to come to terms with their infidelity.

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Gallery

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FAQs

Where can I watch it legally?
We only share legal viewing options. Check the “Where to watch” box above for your region and verify on official listings.
Is it available for free?
Free availability depends on region, promotions, or ad-supported services. Always verify on legal providers—availability changes frequently.

Main cast

Meryl Streep
as Sarah / Anna
Jeremy Irons
as Charles Henry Smithson / Mike
Lynsey Baxter
as Ernestina
Charlotte Mitchell
as Mrs. Tranter
Peter Vaughan
as Mr. Freeman