Watch Oliver!

Oliver! is a classic musical film released in 1968, based on the famous novel by Charles Dickens, Oliver Twist. The film won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Score. It features a talented cast, including Mark Lester as Oliver Twist, Ron Moody as Fagin, and Shani Wallis as Nancy. The movie tells the story of Oliver, an orphan boy who lives in a workhouse in Victorian England. One day, he decides to run away and travels to London, where he meets a group of pickpockets led by Fagin. Oliver is soon caught up in their criminal activities and becomes embroiled in their schemes. However, he also meets kind-hearted Nancy, who is one of Fagin's associates but deeply cares for Oliver's wellbeing.

As Oliver struggles to survive on the streets of London, he encounters both kindness and cruelty. He is taken in by a wealthy benefactor, Mr. Brownlow, who sees him as a potential heir. However, the gang of pickpockets, led by the ruthless Bill Sikes, are determined to use Oliver's innocence and trustfulness to steal from the wealthy.

Ron Moody delivers a standout performance as Fagin, the cunning and manipulative leader of the pickpockets. He is both menacing and charismatic, with a distinctive look and mannerisms that add to his characterization. Shani Wallis is equally impressive as Nancy, bringing depth and vulnerability to her role. Nancy is torn between her loyalty to Fagin and her genuine affection for Oliver, creating a complex and emotional arc. Mark Lester, as Oliver, captures the essence of the character with his cherubic face and innocent expression.

The film is renowned for its many memorable songs, including "Consider Yourself," "Oom-Pah-Pah," and "As Long as He Needs Me." The music was composed by Lionel Bart, who also wrote the lyrics and book for the original stage version of the musical. The songs are catchy, energetic, and full of emotion, and they serve to enhance the plot and characters.

Oliver! is a lavish production, with impressive sets and costumes that recreate the gritty yet colorful world of Victorian London. The cinematography by Oswald Morris is striking, capturing the mood and tone of the film perfectly. Director Carol Reed creates a rich tapestry of characters and events, weaving together Dickens' social commentary with the music and choreography.

The movie has been criticized for its romanticized portrayal of poverty and crime, as well as its sanitization of certain aspects of the story. However, it remains a beloved classic, with timeless themes of redemption, love, and hope. It is a film that appeals to all ages, with its humor, drama, and music.

In conclusion, Oliver! is a musical masterpiece, a film that stands the test of time and continues to enchant audiences to this day. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the talent and creativity of its cast and crew, who brought Dickens' classic story to life with wit, heart, and soul. Whether you are a fan of musicals, Dickens, or classic cinema in general, Oliver! is a must-see film that will leave you humming its tunes and pondering its message long after the credits roll.

Oliver! is a 1968 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 33 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4 and a MetaScore of 74.