While writing the classic novel Oliver Twist, Charles Dickens was also writing Nicholas Nickleby, with volumes released every month. His third novel was adapted in 2002 in a film adaptation that smooths out Dickens’ elaborate plot, with beautiful sets and costumes, and the classic good vs evil themes the classic novelist is known for. There’s a bit of a mismatch with Charlie Hunnam as the titular protagonist, but the rest of the cast slips into their characters well, most notably Christopher Plummer as the incredibly stingy uncle Ralph, and Jamie Bell, whose rendition of Smike makes his dynamic with Nickleby compelling. Nicholas Nickleby isn’t the most transformative adaptation, but it’s one that still works, especially for young viewers wanting a simplified plot for their book reports.
Synopsis
Nicholas Nickleby, a young boy in search of a better life, struggles to save his family and friends from the abusive exploitation of his coldheartedly grasping uncle.
Storyline
After the death of his father, Nicholas Nickleby and his mother and sister are left with no money. Because of this, they go to London to ask for help from his wealthy, coldhearted uncle, which leads him to a series of adventures as he struggles to save his family and friends.
TLDR
It’s not terrible. It’s just really shortened, and to be fair, considering that the original novel was 65 chapters long and the stage play was 8 hours long, this wasn’t an easy task.
What stands out
Charlie Hunnam wasn’t downright terrible, really. It’s just that his accent is off, and there’s something about the way his face and his dyed hair felt distinctly 2010s.
