The Artful Dodger is an Australian historical fiction drama television series that premiered on Disney+ and Hulu on November 29, 2023. It is a sequel to Charles Dickens's novel Oliver Twist, set fifteen years after the events of the book.
Synopsis:
The series follows Jack Dawkins, formerly the Artful Dodger, now a respected surgeon in the colony of Port Victory, Australia, in the 1850s. While attempting to leave his criminal past behind him, Dawkins is drawn back into a world of crime when Fagin, his former mentor, arrives from London. The series explores his dual life as a surgeon and a pickpocket, as well as his romantic entanglement with Lady Belle Fox, the Governor's daughter, who is determined to become the colony's first female surgeon.
Cast:
- Thomas Brodie-Sangster as Jack Dawkins/The Artful Dodger
- David Thewlis as Fagin
- Maia Mitchell as Lady Belle Fox
- Damon Herriman as Captain Gaines
- Miranda Richardson as Mrs. Bedwin
- Tim Minchin as Darius Cracksworth
- Susie Porter as Honeychurch
- Kym Gyngell as Governor Fox
- Luke Carroll as Nanna
- Huw Higginson as Sykes
Production:
The series was filmed in New South Wales, Australia. It is produced by Beach Road Pictures and Curio Pictures.
Reception:
The Artful Dodger has received generally positive reviews, with critics praising the performances of the cast, particularly Thomas Brodie-Sangster and David Thewlis, as well as the series' production design and engaging storyline. Some criticism has been directed towards the narrative's reliance on familiar Dickensian tropes.