Please, Sir, I Want Some More
Please, Sir, I Want Some More
Charles Dickens’ tale of Oliver Twist has captured audiences for generations. Roman Polanski’s reimagining hits screens in Japan on the 28th January 2006. Here’s literature graduate James Crawford to give you the report…
The Story of Oliver Twist
Originally published as a novel in 1838, it has become a classic of English literature, a key text in English lessons, and children’s favorite. Oliver is a character children can identify with, an underdog to cheer on as he struggles against the adversity of London’s seedy underworld, and a role model: a genuinely good-hearted child, ultimately rewarded for his altruism. Film-makers have been consistently captivated by the story, with Carol Reed’s 1968 musical adaptation in particular winning five Academy Awards and taking its place as a firm favorite of any self-respecting student. This new venture is a bold move then, an attempt to return to the original text, and perhaps see if any more of those Oscars aren’t coming Oliver’s way.
The Crew
Oliver Twist is blessed with internationally acclaimed director Roman Polanski. Riding on the crest of Death and the Maiden (1994) and The Pianist (2002), for which he won his Best Director Oscar, Polanski felt he owed his children a film. Twist’s life has been likened to that of Dickens: both boys had a difficult childhood, yet both redeemed themselves. Polanski’s own life displays similar parallels; born in France of Polish parents in 1933, his father was sent to a forced labor camp in 1941, the same year that his mother was taken to Auschwitz, never to return.
The Cast
Polanski collaborated with many of the crew previously on The Pianist, and having teamed up with Ben Kingsley in Death and the Maiden, he wanted him for the character of Fagin from the start. A wise choice; Kingsley’s versatility never ceases to amaze. The rest of the cast positively bubbles with the cream of British talent, complete with proper English accents. Barney Clark, a fresh face in the coveted role of Oliver, achieves a wonderful innocence, while Leanne Rowe as Nancy can tug on heart-strings with the best of them. Not to mention the 800-odd extras that bring the city to life.
The Added Color
Sets, costumes and props are vital to a good film. And in these areas I can say this film excels. In recreating 19th century London, over 40,000 ・ of set were built. It took three months and a genuine 1835 map to construct the vast, interlocking metropolis. The costuming is similarly exquisite. From the rags of the workhouse boys to the tailored suits of the upper classes, materials were drawn from Italy, London and Prague to achieve the desired effect.
The Result
Throughout, the film highlights the all-important message, penned by Dickens, lived by Twist, and now recounted by Polanski: compassion is the key to happiness. An old lady is as happy to share her food with Oliver as he is to receive it; Mr. Brownlow finds satisfaction in giving the care that Oliver so appreciates. And, in the end, crucially, Oliver repays this compassion to the condemned Fagin. He has learned that we should not need to ask for more, if only we would all share what we have with those who need it. A great film; I highly recommend it .
By James Crawford
James is a 21-year-old Scot, who graduated this summer from Cambridge University with a degree in literature and linguistics. He is currently undertaking a one-year course in Japanese language, history and culture in Futsukaichi.
