The film adaptation of Lionel Bart's 1960 stage musical, itself derived from Charles Dickens' 1838 novel "Oliver Twist," serves as a commendable entry point to the classic tale. Primarily aimed at children in my opinion, it encapsulates the essence of Dickens's original narrative, though the film's prolonged 153-minute duration often dilutes the impact of the dark social critique with the exuberant music and choreography.
Mark Lester, the former child actor turned osteopath, delivers a commendable performance as the genteel orphan Oliver. His expulsion from the workhouse, triggered by a request for more food, unfolds more as a lively romp than a compelling inciting incident. Despite the infectious charm of "Food, Glorious Food," the whimsical and drawn out choreography sets the tone for a film that struggles to maintain a serious undertone.
The transition to Oliver's apprenticeship with the undertaker Sowerberry offers a glimpse into Dickens's critique of 19th-century British lower-class society, although the bullying by Noah Claypole is played for slapstick. Oliver's subsequent escape to London, where he encounters the young pickpocket The Artful Dodger, played by Jack Wild, adds an intriguing layer.
Ron Moody, reprising his stage role as Fagin, aims to humanize the character, steering away from Dickens's criminal portrayal, especially to avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Oliver Reed, portraying the burglar Bill Sykes, adds a layer of cruelty, particularly in his mistreatment of prostitute Nancy, played by Shani Wallis.
The plot takes a riveting turn when Oliver is falsely accused of pickpocketing, leading to his redemption as he is taken in by Mr. Brownlow. This development adds a layer of complexity as Brownlow begins to suspect a familial connection based on Oliver's resemblance to a portrait of his deceased niece. The filial relationship is later confirmed by Mr. Bumble, who arrives with a locket identified by Brownlow as belonging to his niece.
Nancy's tragic love for Sykes is palpable in the iconic song "As Long as He Needs Me." However, the gritty realism of her eventual murder feels somewhat out of place in the context of the light-hearted musical.
Moody's portrayal of Fagin steals the spotlight, presenting the character's internal struggle in the song "Reviewing the Situation." Despite fleeting thoughts of reform, Fagin ultimately returns to a life of crime in the company of The Artful Dodger.
In the concluding act, "Oliver" reaches its resolution with the deserved comeuppance for the menacing Sykes. The film sees Oliver finding solace under the care of Mr. Brownlow, signaling an end to his tumultuous past of abuse. While the movie excels in delivering catchy tunes, the abundance of extended choreography may test the patience of adult viewers. "Oliver" succeeds in captivating a younger audience but might be perceived as overly flippant by those seeking a more nuanced adaptation of Dickens's timeless novel.
Mark Lester, the former child actor turned osteopath, delivers a commendable performance as the genteel orphan Oliver. His expulsion from the workhouse, triggered by a request for more food, unfolds more as a lively romp than a compelling inciting incident. Despite the infectious charm of "Food, Glorious Food," the whimsical and drawn out choreography sets the tone for a film that struggles to maintain a serious undertone.
The transition to Oliver's apprenticeship with the undertaker Sowerberry offers a glimpse into Dickens's critique of 19th-century British lower-class society, although the bullying by Noah Claypole is played for slapstick. Oliver's subsequent escape to London, where he encounters the young pickpocket The Artful Dodger, played by Jack Wild, adds an intriguing layer.
Ron Moody, reprising his stage role as Fagin, aims to humanize the character, steering away from Dickens's criminal portrayal, especially to avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Oliver Reed, portraying the burglar Bill Sykes, adds a layer of cruelty, particularly in his mistreatment of prostitute Nancy, played by Shani Wallis.
The plot takes a riveting turn when Oliver is falsely accused of pickpocketing, leading to his redemption as he is taken in by Mr. Brownlow. This development adds a layer of complexity as Brownlow begins to suspect a familial connection based on Oliver's resemblance to a portrait of his deceased niece. The filial relationship is later confirmed by Mr. Bumble, who arrives with a locket identified by Brownlow as belonging to his niece.
Nancy's tragic love for Sykes is palpable in the iconic song "As Long as He Needs Me." However, the gritty realism of her eventual murder feels somewhat out of place in the context of the light-hearted musical.
Moody's portrayal of Fagin steals the spotlight, presenting the character's internal struggle in the song "Reviewing the Situation." Despite fleeting thoughts of reform, Fagin ultimately returns to a life of crime in the company of The Artful Dodger.
In the concluding act, "Oliver" reaches its resolution with the deserved comeuppance for the menacing Sykes. The film sees Oliver finding solace under the care of Mr. Brownlow, signaling an end to his tumultuous past of abuse. While the movie excels in delivering catchy tunes, the abundance of extended choreography may test the patience of adult viewers. "Oliver" succeeds in captivating a younger audience but might be perceived as overly flippant by those seeking a more nuanced adaptation of Dickens's timeless novel.