Oliver Twist: More Than Just a Bowl of Gruel

Hejsan! So, Dickens’ Oliver Twist gets another spin on the big screen, and I gotta say, I’ve got some conflicting thoughts on this one. It’s like, on one hand, you’ve got this timeless story that we’ve all heard a thousand times – “Please sir, I want some more” – but on the other hand, it’s always a pleasant surprise to see how different directors and actors can add new layers to it. This time around, it’s Roman Polanski who takes the helm. Yes, the Polanski – the guy with a knack for painting vivid, sometimes unnerving portraits on film.

I remember reading Oliver Twist back in gymnasiet, forced by a rather stuffy English teacher who probably hadn’t smiled since the 60s. Yet, when I hear the story today, those memories mix with the sights and sounds of London’s grimy streets that Polanski crafts with his unique style.

But let’s get to the on-screen magic. Little Barney Clark plays Oliver, and he’s just perfect – a mix of innocent and determined. And can we talk about Ben Kingsley as Fagin? This man could probably read IKEA instructions and make it sound like Shakespeare. Kingsley brings out the complexity of Fagin – you know, that balance of creepy and sympathetic that’s so hard to pull off.

The thing with Oliver Twist is, it always leaves you reflecting on the injustices of society and the resilience of the human spirit. Even in our cold Swedish winters, we can relate to Oliver’s struggle and hope – haven’t we all felt a bit too alone sometimes?

Now, I wouldn’t say it rocked my world or anything, but Polanski does deliver these beautiful, dark visuals that make you go “wow.” Maybe it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but sometimes it’s just comforting to revisit a classic through someone else’s eyes.

Och du, if this flick makes you want to pick up the book – grab your old copy and immerse yourself in the story once more. Because really, who doesn’t want some more?

Check the trailer below