jasonhurwitz's Review

Summary - Really Great 4.5

A true classic of a movie, this really great film has been (somewhat sadly, I must now say) by the musical version released in 1968. Although I have not actually read Dickens’ book, this version feels much more true-to-the-book than its musical counterpart, and I liked it. Coming in at just under 2 hours, this is a thrilling crime drama, and should not be considered a movie for young children. Also, many of the theme set forth by this movie, from Twist’s appearance to the scenery and sets, were copied almost exactly in the later musical adaptation.

Acting - Really Great 4.5

John Howard Davies as Oliver is fantastic, especially for a kid. Robert Newton (Bill Sikes), Alec Guinness (Fagin), and Anthony Newley (Artful Dodger) complete a stand-out lineup of supporting leads, as do the remainder of the primary cast.

Film - Really Great 4.5

Well-shot, great script adaptation, and suspense-fully produced. The music is great (though I admit, having just watched the ’68 musical version a few days ago, that I kept expecting them to break into song at some point.

Edge - Risqué 1.8

Although there’s no blood, guts, or gore, the violence is definitely a major part of the story and was not skipped in the filming.

Reality - Glib 2.0

2 Comments

• jasonhurwitz Jun 19, 2011 9:50AM

  Regarding jasonhurwitz’s Review
  IMHO, absolutely. Then again, I’m not REALLY sure kids should be watching either until they’re at least 10. Very adult subject matter.

• Wick Jun 19, 2011 4:22AM

  Regarding jasonhurwitz’s Review
  Great review, especially with the comparison to Oliver! Sounds like if one had to choose, and kids aren’t in the equation, then Oliver Twist would be the one to watch.

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