In Charles Dickens' classic tale, an orphan wends his way from cruel apprenticeship to den of thieves in search of a true home.
Oliver Twist (1948) is a classic British film adaptation of Charles Dickens' novel, directed by David Lean. It tells the story of Oliver, a young orphan boy who escapes from a harsh workhouse and travels to London in search of a better life. However, Oliver quickly falls into the hands of Fagin, a manipulative criminal who trains young boys to become pickpockets. Alongside the villainous Bill Sikes and the kind-hearted Nancy, Oliver's fate teeters between crime and salvation. The film is a powerful exploration of poverty, exploitation, and the resilience of the human spirit, set against the backdrop of Victorian England.
This sci-fi horror film is mildly intense but largely free from graphic violence or disturbing scenes by modern standards. Pre-teens and older children who enjoy classic monster movies would likely find it engaging without being overly scary.
Oliver Twist (1948) is a faithful and well-acted adaptation that captures the gritty realism and emotional depth of Dickens’ novel. It is a great watch for families with older kids, especially those interested in classic literature, historical settings, and moral storytelling. However, parents should be aware of the film’s darker moments when deciding if it’s appropriate for younger children.