Oliver! (VHS, 1998, 30th Anniversary Tribute Edition; Clam Shell Duracase)

This is a fabulous story set in England about 1850 about the true meaning of love and Christian charity. A musical using a full range of styles and voices... Oliver's performance is heart-rending. A beautiful performance by ALL the actors involved; one of my family's top 10 movies of all time! We also love Newsies, another great musical.

Charles Dickens was a remarkably gifted literary giant, who always knew how to develop, create and write stories that were appealing and timeless. Perhaps his greatest work was that of "Oliver Twist". The many characters that were part of this unique creation have become legendary figures. So, it is with great satisfaction that a film adaptation of this timeless story would make it to the big screen. Even better was the fact that this variation turned out to be a musical. And, what a musical it is! Originally performed in London in the early 60s, it moved to Broadway a few years later, to sold out houses and overwhelming critical acclaim. The movie version of "Oliver!" is a rousing cinematic triumph. This film stars Mark Lester as Oliver Twist, the young English orphan who goes through much adversity before finally finding a true home. Ron Moody as Fagin and Jack Wild as The Artful Dodger both earned Oscar nominations. Oliver Reed is the definitive Bill Sykes, one of the greatest villains in all of movie history. The sets, costumes, art direction, cinematography, musical score, songs and performances from the entire cast all come together brilliantly in a showcase of first-class production. The film went on to win six Academy Awards in 1968, including Best Director for Sir Carol Reed and Best Picture. "Oliver!" is a lot of fun for the entire family, filled with sparkling moments from beginning to end!

We, my family and I, have loved Oliver! since it was shown in theaters. People with small children should know that this version kills a major character. This is an essential part of the plot. The killing and death is not graphic. It is sad and little kids may cry or be upset by this part of the story. My sister and I were a little upset as kids until our parents explained why Nancy died. This detail follows the original Dickens treatment of Oliver Twist. The acting and singing in this movie is WONDERFUL. Ultimately, there is a happy ending which, I have always liked in movies. That is why Oliver! is part of our movie collection.