Review of Oliver! (1968) by Kayleigh T — 06 May 2008
The true spectacle of this 1968 Best Picture winner is it's magnificent set design, and huge staged musical numbers. Though it lacks the regal qualities of SOUND OF MUSIC, the exuberance of SINGING IN THE RAIN, or the whit and charm of MY FAIR LADY, the film still boasts magnificent sensibilities in the areas of editing, costumes, and cinematography.
So much of a musical has to do with the lyrics and how they perpetuate the story, and in this case they just don't flow as crisp or clean as they so desperatly want to. Also, the characters lack a certian depth which makes it harder to feel or connect to them.
In the end I found myself more attracted to the world itself unfolding before my eyes than the characters who inhabited it. However I will say that Mark Lester, who played Oliver, brought a genuine childlike simplicity to his poor orphan performance that becomes one of loveable admiration.
OLIVER! remains a marvelous piece of cinema, and a highly spirited adaptation of Charles Dickens masterpiece.
This review of Oliver! (1968) was written by Kayleigh T on 06 May 2008.
Oliver! has generally received positive reviews.
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