Watch Martin Chuzzlewit

Martin Chuzzlewit is a period drama miniseries produced by the BBC America in 1994. The show is based on the novel of the same name written by Charles Dickens in 1843-44. The miniseries is set in the Victorian era and tells the story of a wealthy family, the Chuzzlewits, and their various interactions with each other and other people in their lives.

The show is renowned for its excellent cast of actors, led by the veteran British actor Paul Scofield in the titular role of Martin Chuzzlewit. Joining him in the cast are other accomplished actors such as Tom Wilkinson, Julia Sawalha, and Ben Walden. The show is directed by Pedr James and adapted for television by David Lodge.

The series starts with Martin Chuzzlewit, a wealthy businessman, who becomes disillusioned with his family's greed and decides to disinherited them. He then sets off on a voyage to America to begin a new life. However, things are not easy for him in America, as he encounters various difficulties and setbacks. Meanwhile, his family back in England engages in a bitter feud over his will, and various parties try to manipulate the situation for their own gain.

The show features a host of other characters, each with their own ambitions and desires that often clash with those of others. Among them is Mr. Pecksniff, a scheming architect who tries to take advantage of the Chuzzlewit family and manipulate them for his own gain. Also featured are Mark Tapley, a loyal servant who accompanies Martin on his journey to America, and Jonas Chuzzlewit, Martin's cousin who is consumed by greed and jealousy.

The show is a visual delight, with excellent period costumes and detailed set designs that transport the audience back in time. The cinematography is also notable, with beautiful shots of the English countryside and busy cityscapes of Victorian London. The miniseries is shot on locations throughout the United Kingdom, with primary filming taking place in Cornwall and London.

In addition to the visual elements, the show is also praised for its outstanding performances. Paul Scofield is widely regarded as the standout performer, with his portrayal of Martin Chuzzlewit winning widespread acclaim for its complexity and nuance. The veteran actor imbues his character with a sense of bitter cynicism and disillusionment while also conveying his underlying humanity and vulnerability. His performance is complemented by a host of other talented actors who bring their respective characters to life with equal conviction.

Despite its somewhat complex plot and large cast of characters, the show is easy to follow, thanks to skillful direction and tight editing. The pacing is well-maintained, with the storylines seamlessly woven together to create a cohesive narrative. The miniseries also features a haunting musical score by Geoffrey Burgon that adds another layer of depth to the viewing experience.

Overall, Martin Chuzzlewit is a fascinating and engrossing period drama that captures the essence of Charles Dickens' novel with remarkable accuracy. The show boasts a stellar cast of actors, beautiful visuals, and a richly detailed story that keeps the audience hooked from beginning to end. It is a must-watch for fans of Dickens' work or anyone who enjoys quality period dramas that transport them back in time.