Oliver Twist (1997 film)

Oliver Twist (1997) is a British television film adaptation of Charles Dickens' novel of the same name. Directed by [Roman Polanski], it stars [among others] [various actors, e.g., Barney Clark as Oliver Twist, Robert Lindsay as Fagin, and Richard Attenborough]. The film is known for its faithfulness to the source material, its bleak and atmospheric depiction of Victorian London, and its strong performances.

The adaptation largely follows the plot of the novel, chronicling the harsh realities faced by Oliver, an orphan thrust into a world of poverty, crime, and exploitation. It showcases Oliver's journey from the workhouse to the clutches of Fagin and his gang of young pickpockets, eventually leading to his entanglement with various characters, including the benevolent Mr. Brownlow and the villainous Bill Sikes.

While generally well-received for its accuracy to Dickens' vision, some critics noted a certain level of bleakness that might be challenging for younger viewers. The film's focus on the grim aspects of Victorian poverty and the criminal underworld distinguishes it from some other adaptations that might emphasize more of a fairytale or adventure aspect of the story. The film's production design and costuming were widely praised for their authenticity in recreating the period's setting. Its success led to continued interest in and appreciation of Dickens' classic novel.