The Scarlet Tunic is a 1998 English-language Drama History movie. The spectacular scenery of Wessex and the Dorset coast provides the backdrop for this adaptation of a Thomas Hardy short story. Set in nineteenth century rural England, this is the story of forbidden romance between a German hussar serving with King George III's personal cavalry, Matthaus Singer, and the only daughter of a West country solicitor, Frances Groves. The German legion is encamped on the downs as the threat of war with Napoleon looms. Matthaus longs for his homeland and Frances is trapped in an interminable engagement to one of her father's business associates, Humphrey Gould. Illicit meetings between Frances and Matthaus flare into a passionate affair as each searches for escape and happiness. Were they to be discovered, she would be branded a soldier's whore and he a disgrace to his regiment.. Written by Anonymous. The scarlet tunic stars Jean-marc Barr in the title role along with an ensemble cast including Emma Fielding, Simon Callow, Jack Shepherd, John Sessions, Lynda Bellingham and Thomas Lockyer. It was released on 12th June 1998.