Our Mutual Friend
Part of the BBC's The Charles Dickens Collection
Murder, romance, stalkings, and contested inheritances make for an entertaining mix in Charles Dickens' Our Mutual Friend. This was the last novel that Dickens ever wrote and it contains all of the elements that made his work so universally appealing: complex plots and subplots, outrageous supporting characters, insight into the nature of wealth and class, and central characters who undergo real change and development over the course of the story. This high quality BBC production features sumptuous period sets and a cast of skilled British actors, resulting in a piece that is both a faithful interpretation of Dickens' text and an entertaining piece of television.
Member Reviews
Rich Story Immaculately Produced - Stitch
In this his final novel, Dickens elected to lighten the story and the result in this six hour BBC adaptation is a feel-good epic guaranteed to send you off to bed in a good mood. And for guys, probably to dream of Keely Hawes as Lizzie Hexam. A beautiful and talented actress (OK, so I’m a sucker for redheads) and appropriate for a hexing role, however inadvertent. And David Morrissey as the headmaster provides the convincingly hysterical suitor. It may seem a bit overdone but remember these are 19th century soap operas. So settle back, ease up on the critical eye, and savor the fun and games.
The plot is complex with a fair number of surprising twists. As usual, it hinges around the conflict of abject poverty, nouveau riche, and the peerage....set this time in the dustbin (garbage) business and the trolling for floaters (bodies) in the Thames. Neither settings have been used before in a Dicken’s story and are interesting in themselves. The cinematography is absolutely outstanding even by BBC standards. You will be immersed in the environment; bring your Wellies and goggles.
The producers for once give us time to become intimately acquainted with most of the players, and they do not disappoint. Peter Vaughan as Mr. Boffin handles the most difficult role with relish; granted he’s been at it since ’59. Anna Friel as his ward also does a very credible transition and her Irish heritage adds an attractive pixie-like contrast to the more solid English cast. And you will not tire of Kenneth Cranham who hangs in there to the resolution--grime made flesh. In this role, it’s hard to imagine he and Helen Mirren once being an item.
Back to Keeley Hawes--Edit--I had reported she’s the new Lara Croft in a sequel now in production. Unfortunately, no, hers will be the VOICE in the latest video game release. Rats!
Anyhow, I highly recommend Our Mutual Friend for all adult viewers.
Member Reviews
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Rich Story Immaculately Produced - Stitch
In this his final novel, Dickens elected to lighten the story and the result in this six hour BBC adaptation is a feel-good epic guaranteed to send you off to bed in a good mood. And for guys, probably to dream of Keely Hawes as Lizzie Hexam. A beautiful ...