Great Expectations (1998)

Amazon.com

The key ingredient in this modern-day version of Charles Dickens's classic is director Alfonso Cuarón, who made the glowing, estimable A Little Princess. If you saw that (and you should), understand that Expectations has those ingredients (great sense of time, place, and timing) but adds modern music and sex appeal; the latter personified by the long-legged Gwyneth Paltrow.

Finnegan Bell (Ethan Hawke as an adult, Jeremy James Kissner at age 10) is the new version of Dickens's Pip. He's a child wise beyond his years, befriending an escaped convict (Robert De Niro) in the warm waters of Florida's Gulf Coast. Finn is also the plaything for Estella (Paltrow as an adult, Raquel Beaudene at age 10), the niece of the coast's richest and most eccentric lady, Ms. Dinsmoor (a fun and flamboyant Anne Bancroft). The prudish Estella likes Finn (catch the best first kiss scene in many a moon) but has been brought up to disdain men; she'll break hearts. As the object of Finn's desires, Estella unfortunately is a one-dimensional character, yet what a dimension! Clad in Donna Karan dresses and her long, sun-kissed hair, Paltrow is luminous. She and Hawke make a very sexy couple.

Mitch Glazer's script does better by Finn. He's a blue-collar worker with a gift for drawing (artwork by Francesco Clemente). Following his Uncle Joe's (Chris Cooper) honest ways, Finn grows up as a fisherman, thoughts of Estella and art drifting away in the hard work. When a mysterious benefactor allows him to follow his dream, Finn finds himself in New York, preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime art exhibit--and in the arms of the engaged Estella.

Filled with cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki's golden-drenched light, the film has an irresistible, wildly romantic look. Dinsmoor's place is certainly gothic, Estella and Finn's longing encounters glamorous. Cuarón uses an MTV-friendly soundtrack with a confident touch. Songs by Tori Amos and the band Pulp--along with Patrick Doyle's silky score--create passionate scenes. It all ends far too swiftly with a seemingly tacked-on ending (reflecting the book, as it happens) but the film is splendid storytelling. It's a stylish, sweet valentine. --Doug Thomas

Description

The moment young Finn sets eyes on Estella, she becomes his inspiration and his obsession. Despite being warned, "she'll only break your heart," he vowed to win her love. Years later, thanks to a mysterious benefactor, aspiring artist Finn is off to New York, where he is reunited with the icy and beautiful Estella. When she agrees to model for him, Finn's dearest hopes may at last be realized-along with his darkest fears!

Customer Reviews:

Not what I expected.......2007-09-09

My students read Great Expectations and then I wanted to show a movie of the book as a reward. This was not it. This movie has nothing to do with the book except is shares a title. I could see nothing similiar and the language etc was so bad I coulnd't show my AP seniors this movie. I am very disappointed. The tags they suggest are Dickens and classic. It is neither of these. Its trash.

Romance.......2007-08-26

In this movie the passage of time is clear. Great love story.

Corey Cotta, Author of All of Yesterdays Tomorrows.

So watchable.......2007-07-29

Everytime I catch this film on Tv, no matter how far throught it is I end up watching it till its conclusion. Such a watchable film. Superbly crafted andacted. One of teh few modernisations of classic tales that actually works.

Ethan Hawke brings no expectation of acting skills to a totally ridiculous film!.......2007-06-29

Where do I begin??? Well...how about UGH!? I tried to pinpoint what I found particularly annoying about this version of GREAT EXPECTATIONS...and then it came to me; there was nothing about any one character for which I felt a single shred of emotion! I might as well have been Estella herself! I freely admit that even Dicken's original story is my least favorite of all Dickens' novels. I have seen three other film adaptations and still did not particularly care for the story or the characters (here the names have been changed as well as the time and the country).Perhaps Ethan Hawke, who plays the "Pip" character,Finnegan Bell, was my biggest objection to this film. I found him to be 100% lifeless,uninteresting and not at all an embodiment of understanding and kindness.With your lead character being so terribly portrayed, the story really never jelled for me. Gwyneth Paltrow as Estella, on the other hand, fares much better as the ice cold and victimized Estella. She seems to understand her character's tragic upbringing and the sexy allure with which she has been educated by Nora Dinsmore (a somewhat odd and uneven portrayal by Anne Bancroft).

I found the New York shots to be totally implausible. Where does anyone walk in New York TOTALLY ALONE on bright,gorgeous sunny days in Central Park West???? Come on!!! Where do leaves cascade down alley ways tucked far,far away from any living green thing??? (I understand the symbolism, but this simply doesn't work with New York City).

The design for the Dinsmore house never once changes over the years of neglect! The same vines that entwined the house when Finn was a young boy on his first visit are exactly the same as when he arrives years later. Vines grow!!!

This entire film was so implausible,senseless and uneven in production.

Patrick Doyle's original soundtrack seemed to me totally incorrect for the sensibility of this adaptation. He must have still been in his Kenneth Branagh mode!

Sorry, but this film is a throwaway...not totally...but still a throwaway!

Beautifull movie filmed in a beautifull place........2007-06-10

I love this modern adaptation of the classic Dickens novel. Although, part of that could be because I lived in south Florida for a long time, and spent many days wondering the Ringling museum, where this movie was filmed. The sound track is also worth a listen.

Great Expectations (Masterpiece Theatre, 1999)

Average customer rating:

Mr. Dickens' Divorce Tells in this Story.
The Production is Great......But dont Buy this DVD
bad DVD production
Excellent film adaptation
Great Expectations Box Set

Great Expectations (Masterpiece Theatre, 1999)
Starring: Ioan Gruffudd , Justine Waddell , Charlotte Rampling , Angela Sims , and Hugh Lloyd
Director: Julian Jarrold
Manufacturer: WGBH BOSTON
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ASIN: B0002XVRGG
Release Date: 2004-09-28

Amazon.com

This capable and intelligent adaptation of Charles Dickens's classic novel is one in a long line of Great Expectations put to film. But this two-part drama distinguishes itself with its faithfulness to the book and outstanding performances by the principal cast. Ioan Gruffudd plays the adult Pip, an orphan who lives with his sister and her kindly blacksmith husband. Pip's life changes when he is sent for by Miss Haversham (Charlotte Rampling), an eccentric and wealthy spinster who wears only her bridal gown, which she was wearing when she was left at the altar years before. Introduced to Estella (played later as a woman by Justine Waddell), Miss Haversham's contemptuous ward, Pip falls in love with the girl and spends the remainder of his youth attempting to be good enough for her--a state of affairs that suddenly seems possible when a mysterious benefactor makes Pip's education as a London gentleman possible. Gruffudd is a fine choice for the central character, and his naturally intense expression underscores Pip's problems with insecurity and sense of deservedness. Waddell is an appropriately solipsistic Estella, slightly reminiscent of Vivien Leigh, and Rampling's casting is an unexpected but terrific move on the filmmaker's part. The veteran actress's career-long air of mystery, vague suffering, and intense sexuality bring a potent power to Miss Haversham's baleful looks. Dickens would be proud of this one. --Tom Keogh

Description

Ioan Gruffudd, Justine Waddell and Charlotte Rampling star in this adaptation of Charles Dickens' enduring classic Great Expectations, the story of a young orphan named Pip who lives with his sister and her blacksmith husband, Joe.

One day Pip is sent to play at the residence of Miss Havisham, a frightening, elderly woman who seems locked in the past. She wears ancient bridal attire and never moves from the dusty upper rooms of her home. Miss Havisham's beautiful but contemptuous ward, Estella, makes Pip feel appallingly inferior, creating in him a desire to better himself—changing his life forever. But despite his efforts to improve himself, the frustrated Pip seems destined to remain Joe's apprentice. Until one day a lawyer calls to inform Pip that he has "great expectations:" Pip is to be released form his apprenticeship and educated in London as a gentleman! The benefactor who has made this life transformation possible, however, wishes to remain anonymous.

Customer Reviews:

Mr. Dickens' Divorce Tells in this Story........2007-04-06

The story focuses upon a young man, who desires a young woman, who is pretty but immature, and makes a fool of him. The attractive, but deceitful charm of the pretty young woman leaves the young man empty, and so you.

The 1981-version has a better first episode; but then drags painfully. Both versions have some strange scenes.

The 1947-version is much better, with John Mills, father of Haley Mills.

Mr. Dickens wrote the story "Great Expectations" in 1861, after leaving his wife. Mr. Dickens married his wife Catherine in 1836. They were together 21-years; during which he wrote his brilliant novels: "Oliver Twist"-1839, "A Christmas Carol"-1843, and "David Copperfield"-1850. Mr. Dickens left his wife in 1858.

Unlike "Great Expectations", Mr. Dickens's great novels have a high-minded thought; balance with moments of cheer, triumph for the main character, adventure, and interesting characters. A novel is not a classic just because it is: old, assigned in English class, and written by the writer of other novels indeed brilliant. "Great Expectations" has portions which show Mr. Dickens's talent; however overall it lacks the charm and elements that make his other stories enjoyable, true, classics.

Walt Disney, usually brilliant, made the poor decision to go from one feature length animation film at a time, directly, to working on three such films at a time, over-extending and nearly bankrupting the company, as World War II closed Europe to Disney. The Disneys saved the studio, only, by becoming a public corporation, giving up total family control and ownership. Mr. Disney's poor decision followed the tragic death of his beloved mother, caused by a leaking gas heater, that had supposedly been repaired by a Disney studio mechanic the day before. Mr. Disney hurried to use work as a distraction from his grief. (This is also likely the reason Bambi's mother is killed.) Mr. Disney eventually bounced back. Divorce is also traumatic, even if for the better. I do not judge Mr. Dickens's divorce. I do say Mr. Dickens's divorce from the mother of his ten children affected his writing, and for the worse, telling in the empty "Great Expectations".

The Production is Great......But dont Buy this DVD .......2007-04-05

Even though I have never read the book I found this Production very good.
I would recommend this to any one who is a Dickens Fan but do youself a favour and dont buy this DVD release.
As a British review on Amazon uk site indicated this DVD looks as if it was copied straight off the TV and also the commentary in the beginning and end of the movie telling us about the Great Expectations novel made the DVD worse.
Masterpiece Theatre has spoiled this Great BBC Production of Dickens Great Expectations with it's Commentary (even though they think they are being helpful- but are not) and poor DVD.
Four Stars for the Production itself but giving this Two stars because of the DVD quaility.
Wait until BBC Release a DVD of the Production and the DVD quaility will be much, much better.
I will be selling this DVD and wait until BBC release the DVD in Australia.

bad DVD production.......2007-03-02

The video quality of this fine adaptation is terrible. I've been waiting years for a DVD release only to be dissapointed by the poor video transfer to DVD.

Excellent film adaptation.......2007-01-23

Charles Dickens triumphs once more. This excellent film adaptation of the masterpiece novel manages to be somewhat dark, gritty, and mysterious, and still maintain quirky memorable characters and a tangled web of plots in the typical Dickens way. Justine Waddell's performance as the icy Estella (a very different role from her warm character in "Wives and Daughters") is perfect, complimented by Ioan Gruffud's dramatic display as the hero of story, Pip. The movie is fairly true to the book, and likewise manages to be ambiguous, but satisfying. Fans of Dickens work will not want to miss this instant classic, and anyone looking for a good drama with mystery and character study will not be disappointed.

Great Expectations Box Set.......2007-01-10

This movie follows the book pretty well. My 8th grade students enjoyed it. We watched the movie before we read the book since sometimes the book can be hard to follow with the English flavoring in the language and the many characters. I would reccommend this movie.

The Charles Dickens Collection (Oliver Twist / Martin Chuzzlewit / Bleak House / Hard Times / Great Expectations / Our Mutual Friend)

Average customer rating:

The Charles Dickens Collection
Dickens Package 1
Dickensian Delights
opinion
lovely , region 1 only

The Charles Dickens Collection (Oliver Twist / Martin Chuzzlewit / Bleak House / Hard Times / Great Expectations / Our Mutual Friend)
Starring: Ben Rodska , Scott Funnell , Eric Porter , Frank Middlemass , and Lysette Anthony
Director: Gareth Davies , Pedr James , and Ross Devenish
Manufacturer: BBC Warner
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ASIN: B0009PVZMS
Release Date: 2005-09-06

Amazon.com

As can be clearly seen from the care lavished on these six BBC adaptions of Charles Dickens' novels, the British love their Dickens! And why not--Dickens is ideally suited to television, with his elaborate but vigorous plots, each a compendium of comically odious personalities (and one or two nice folk, just to keep things from getting too awful). Actors dig into these meaty roles with zeal, delighting in the hairpin turns from macabre horror to sweet sentiment. The more popular (and most frequently adapted) of the books at hand--Great Expectations and Oliver Twist--are the most conventional. The 1981 mini-series Expectations (in which young Pip learns the pitfalls of wealth through his relationship with the rich and bitter Mrs. Havishamand and her warped ward, Estella) is dutiful to its source but not adapted with much inspiration. Twist, from 1985, fares better; it's a zippy treatment of this tale of childhood deprivation and juvenile delinquency, and the horrors of Victorian orphanages will raise your hackles. The adaptation is capable but a little flat--still, any story where an undertaker observes, "Every tear is another shilling in the till," is clearly not lacking in wicked wit.

Fortunately, the others are considerably juicier: Martin Chuzzlewit, a lesser-known but richly satirical book, has a star-studded production from 1994, featuring Paul Scofield, Tom Wilkinson, Pete Postlethwaite, and Julia Sawalha, among others. The wealthy Martin Chuzzlewit, deeply suspicious of all mankind due to being hounded by greedy, grasping relatives, threatens the happiness of his ward Mary and his namesake grandson. In addition to the sterling and energetic cast, Chuzzlewit has outstanding production values, as does the 1998 version of Our Mutual Friend, which goes to great lengths to evoke the textures of life in Dickens' London. The mysterious death of a man about to inherit a great fortune sets in motion a complex plot that intertwines two love stories (it's one of Dickens' most romantic works), social scheming, and murderous obsession. The names aren't quite as famous (such as Paul McGann, Timothy Spall, Anna Friel, and Keeley Hawes), but the performances are top-notch and the script is particularly dynamic.

Bleak House, a Kafka-esque story of young innocents caught in an all-consuming, multi-generational lawsuit, cultivates a rich and potent Gothic horror; the 19th century seems like an unnerving alien world, through which lawyers and policemen stride like cruel predators. Diana Rigg is the most famous face in this 1985 production, but strong performances abound. The final component of this box set is the most curious: A 1994 version of Hard Times starring Alan Bates and Richard E. Grant, which turns this dark story--about a schoolmaster/politician who raises his children on reason at the expense of all feeling and finally reaps the bitter rewards--into a compact, theatrical feature film that's so swift it's almost jaunty. Adapted and directed by Peter Barnes (writer of The Ruling Class), it's the most stylized production of the bunch, and while lacking the depth and narrative detail of the others, it effectively cuts to the essence of Dickens. --Bret Fetzer

Customer Reviews:

The Charles Dickens Collection .......2007-08-31

Great condition. brand new! Wonderful product and great stories.

A must see and definitely "family friendly".

Dickens Package 1.......2007-06-27

This collection is an embarassment of riches. Each story is divided into several episodes which take time to view and absorb. So far we have only viewed "Bleak House" and "Our Mutual Friend". Both are excellent and capture the steamy world of Dicken's London. I think I am constantly amazed at the attention to detail that the Brits recreate in historical drama. And of course there is the wealth of character playing for which Britain has always been famous. A really excellent series.

Dickensian Delights.......2007-06-02

This collection is wonderful, you can "watch" these novels over and over, faithful to Dickens in tone, plot and spirit -- Highly recommended.

opinion.......2007-06-02

I've just bought the collection, I've seen 3 movies so far, they're great, faithful to the books I've read. They come with cc(closed caption)so it helps the understanding. I watch a film and read the book. They're perfect for those who are really into literature. I highly recommend them.

lovely , region 1 only .......2007-05-08

The dark stories about the impossible lives of the unfortunate makes it a kind of films that will glue anyone to the chair. BBC serieses are not like any other film, and I simply escape to anothr world every time I watch.
Had to watch it in my computer though, since it was not my region( not even after I changed the region in my "region free" DVD player ) which also means I had no subtitles either. A good computer screen is needed for that purpose.

Great Expectations (1946) - Criterion Collection

Average customer rating:

Another Famous Dickens Book Comes To Life
My expectations were great. 4.5 Stars
David Lean's Great Expectations
Great Expectations - Criterion Collection
An English Teacher's Review

Great Expectations (1946) - Criterion Collection
Starring: John Mills , Anthony Wager , Valerie Hobson , Jean Simmons , and Bernard Miles
Director: David Lean
Manufacturer: Criterion
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ASIN: B00000F17E
Release Date: 1999-01-12

Amazon.com essential video

David Lean's handsome adaptation of Charles Dickens's classic novel captures the warm humor and richness of character that so many filmmakers miss in their reverent recreations of Victorian England. From the nightmarish opening sequence on the windswept graveyard where young orphan Pip (Anthony Wager) meets the desperate escaped criminal Magwitch (Finlay Currie) to the shadowy, musty mansion of the widow Miss Haversham (Martita Hunt) where he first meets the impertinent young beauty Estella (Jean Simmons), Lean captures a childlike exaggeration of reality with his elegant expressionism. When Pip's sudden change in fortune sends him to London as a burgeoning gentleman in high society, Lean sketches a beautiful, bustling city. John Mills's performance as the adult Pip charts his change from the wide-eyed wonder and generous spirit of the child he was to the class snob transformed by money and social standing, an ugly flaw that Pip confronts when his mysterious benefactor is finally revealed. The outstanding cast also features Valerie Hobson as the grown-up Estella, now a beguiling enchantress, a bright young Alec Guinness in his film debut as Pip's jovial London roommate Herbert Pocket, and the imposing Francis L. Sullivan as the decidedly humorless lawyer Jaggers. Exquisitely photographed by Guy Green (who won an Oscar for his work). Lean and his collaborators effectively maintain the heart of Dickens's epic drama while cutting it to its essentials in this vivid, compelling film. --Sean Axmaker

Description

One of the great translations of literature into film, David Lean's Great Expectations brings Charles Dickens' masterpiece to robust onscreen life. Pip, Magwitch, Miss Havisham, and Estella populate Lean's magnificent miniature, beautifully photographed by Guy Green and designed by John Bryan.

Customer Reviews:

Another Famous Dickens Book Comes To Life.......2007-09-05

As I watched the beginning of this film, I couldn't help but compare the story to the only other Charles Dickens story I was familiar with: Oliver Twist. It looked like it was going to be another story of a nice, respectful boy being abused by nasty adults. However, as soon as the young boy turned into a man, the similarities ended. Poor Oliver had a lot of ups and downs but life was basically pretty good for the boy, "Pip" in "Great Expectations." Because of that, I didn't think this Dickens tale had the emotional impact of Oliver Twist, but still was great storytelling. The last 20-30 minutes of this film tied so many things together it really made it a satisfying film. From what I just researched, it sounds like the book was a lot harsher story.

John Mills looked way too old to be playing a 20-year-old "Pip Pirrip." In truth, he was too old. Mills was 38 when doing this role. At any rate, I enjoyed a number of actors in here, mainly three older ones: Martita Hunt, Findlay Currie and Francis L. Sullivan. Hunt was just great as "Miss Haversham." I found her fascinating in every sentence she delivered, all of which she did while just sitting in a chair. Currie was genuinely frightening in the beginning as the escaped convict "Magwitch." However, what a transformation that man made in this story! Francis L. Sullivan emotes convincingly enough to play the

To me, the acting took a back seat to Dickens' story and to the film's cinematography. Knowing David Lean directed this film, that Criterion usually produces nice-looking DVD transfers and that "Oliver Twist" looked fantastic on disc, I was paying as close attention to the cinematography, and I enjoyed it. The story wasn't that intense until the finale, which was very well done. Even though the screenplay is softer than the novel, most people say it still captures Dickens' flavor, and few critics had anything but praise for this classic film. Lean and cinematographer Guy Green won Oscars for their work here, so you know it's not too shabby.

The combination of Dickens, Lean, Green and a fine cast all make this a classic movie that is certainly recommended. Don't make the mistake of choosing the insipid 1998 version with Ethan Hawke and Gywneth Paltrow. This is the only version you want to see.

My expectations were great. 4.5 Stars.......2007-08-21

Considering this is a Charles Dickens adaptation and directed/written by David Lean who would go on to win two Oscars later for Lawrence of Arabia (Superbit Collection) and The Bridge on the River Kwai. Lean was also nominated for 9 other Oscars for writing and film editing as well as directing. Two of those nominations came for this film in directing and writing, so my expectations for the director were "great".

The Film itself was nominated for 5 Oscars itself, one of those for best picture, and it won 2 Oscars for cinematography and art direction.
I've heard the film is considered one of the greatest of all Dickens films. It is also on Roger Ebert's "great movies" series with outstanding company. In his review he quotes the British critic Adrian Turner who has written books on both David Lean and the great director Billy Wilder and says how the atmosphere of the mansion in Great Expectations and its deranged occupant were inspiration for Wilder's classic Sunset Boulevard made four years later. Turner also "wonders if the early graveyard scene of Magwitch jumping at Pip from outside the screen didn't inspire countless imitations in horror films ever since." So my expectations of the film itself were "great".

The story is simple enough a young boy named Pip lives with his mean sister and her caring husband Joe who is a Blacksmith. One day Pip's presence is requested by a wealthy eccentric woman by the name of Miss. Havisham who wants him to visit and play, but for what reason. Miss Havisham lives in an old wedding dress, her mansion is filled with cobwebs and she hasn't seen the light of day in many many years. A young girl by the name of Estella who is very mean and nasty lives with Miss. Havisham, she is very insulting of Pip and doesn't want to play with him, yet Miss. Havisham tells her in her ear you can break his heart. Six years go by and now Pip is 20, although the actor playing the grown up Pip John Mills was actually 38 at the time. He is delivered a letter by a lawyer by the name of Mr. Jaggers (who also happens to be Miss. Havishams lawyer), played by Francis L. Sullivan, who delivers a memorable performance and my personal favorite of the movie. This letter informs Pip he has a benefactor and is to be taken raised as a gentleman. The benefactor is to remain anonymous until they are ready to reveal themselves, although we and Pip have a good idea of who that is, or do we? Pip moves in with a roomate by the name of Herbert Pocket played by Alec Guinness (Obi-Wan Kenobi from Star Wars) and this is where the movie starts to reveal many of it's secrets. Sounds like a great plot so again my expectations are high.

In Roger Ebert's review he says "One of the great things about Charles Dickens is the way his people colonize your memory. I wonder if there's any writer except Shakespeare who has created more characters whose names we remember, and whose types seem so true to human nature." This is very true, I read Great Expectations in school and I am now 29 and remembered some of the story but I still remembered the characters names of Pip, Miss Havisham and Estella.

My expectations were great for this film as were Pip's in the film and both Pip and the film live up to and surpass there expectations. This is a great story as far as film watching goes and is filled with all kinds of lessons on loyalty, true friendship, who we really are, revenge, how our choices effect our lives, that's just naming a few.

This is a classic and when I give a star rating I am rating it against other classics.

Highly recommend this to anyone, especially for children and families.

Criterion Dvd Special Features:
-Original Theatrical Trailer
-Subtitles for the deaf and hearing impaired.

David Lean's Great Expectations.......2007-06-22

Perhaps the finest Dickens adaptation ever, this rich, fascinating film about chance encounters and changing fortunes begins with a nerve-rattling sequence in a graveyard that's one of the finest moments in British film. Both Mills and Guinness are a trifle old for their roles, but their virtuosity fully compensates. Guinness, in his first significant screen appearance, is particularly striking as pocket, giving us a tantalizing taste of things to come. A bona-fide classic.

Great Expectations - Criterion Collection.......2007-01-31

I usually love Criterion editions and am willing to pay the increased price to receive all the usual Criterion extras - commentary, interviews, etc.

Unfortunately, aside from the normal remastered print of the film (very well done indeed), the trailer and the inside notes, this edition had none of the features I have come to expect (and pay dear for). Therefore, I would not recommend this item (at its current high price) to anyone who already owns a good print of the movie.

JBF

An English Teacher's Review.......2006-12-19

I should mention first that this is the only film version of "Great Expectations" that I have ever seen. There may be better ones, but I'm only qualified to talk about this one.

My 10th graders were spellbound by this film. They saw it on a big screen from an Epson 720p projector with big stereo sound, which probably helped. However, their reaction to it really surprised me. From the first frame they were rapt, and it turned into one of their favorite experiences of the year.

David Lean's brilliant cinematography is partly responsible for this - the lighting and composition are absolutely stupendous. Many people talk about the "possibilities" of black and white, but David Lean delivers them. The film is visually stunning.

The film also does a decent, if not perfect, job of following the book; obviously some scenes needed to be shortened or left out entirely or this would have been a five hour film. It is not so accurate that you can read a chapter and then watch it, but it is accurate enough that it is certainly worth showing as a reward for finishing the book.

I withhold the fifth star only because the actresses who play young Estella and "grown woman" Estella are so jarringly different as to be almost impossible to accept as the same character. For instance, young Estella seems to have a nose from Sweden, while grown Estella's nose seems to hail from somewhere near Rome. The actresses just aren't similar enough to sustain even the most willing suspension of disbelief.

The actress who plays Miss Havisham, however, is utterly perfect, and her whole broken-hearted domain is reproduced exactly as I imagined it from the book, right down to the mouse-gnawed, spider-infested wedding cake. Her 25 year-long tantrum is shown as half-hilarious, half-horrifying, which is exactly as Dickens intended it in my opinion, and the actress captures the perfect blend of nuances in portraying this unique character as perfectly as she could be portrayed.

The rest of the characters are quite well done also, including the attorney, Pip's sister, Joe and the "pale young gentleman." Even the clerk with "The Aged" father is well played, although the tour of his castle-house from the book is absent. Pip himself is portrayed very appropriately by both the young and older actors, and never disappoints.

Along with the characters, the film provides an incredible amount of tantalizing 19th century detail, enough to keep even the sleepiest, most sullen student awake at 8:02 am on a cold winter morning. All in all, well worth the $35 asking price, especially because, like all Criterion titles in my experience, the DVD transfer looks and sounds absolutely beautiful.

Average customer rating:

Would you believe...?

Great Expectations (1974)
Starring: Joss Ackland , Richard Beaumont , Maria Charles , Erik Chitty , and Ben Cross
Director: Joseph Hardy
Manufacturer: Platinum Disc
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ASIN: B00022EEY4
Release Date: 2006-07-24

Customer Reviews:

Would you believe...?.......2007-05-07

This production was originally filmed as a musical for theatrical release. The songs were edited out and this version of "Great Expectations" was released to television instead. Michael York does a credible job as Pip, and Sarah Miles is excellent as the snobby Estella.

Average customer rating:

Mr. Dickens's Divorce Tells in this Story.
Not worth the money or the time.
Eh
Too long!
Best movie in the world!

Great Expectations (BBC, 1981)
Starring: Stratford Johns , Patsy Kensit , Derek Francis , Colin Jeavons , and John Stratton
Director: Julian Amyes
Manufacturer: BBC home video
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ASIN: B0009PVZK0
Release Date: 2005-09-06

Description

Violence and Victorian gentility meet in this powerful adaptation of one of Dickens's greatest creations. While passing through the churchyard where his mother is buried, a young Pip encounters a desperate convict, Magwitch. Soon afterward he is summoned by the wealthy, eccentric recluse Miss Havisham to play with her beautiful but cruel ward Estella. With these two remarkable encounters begins Pip's epic journey from boy to man. When Pip comes of age, Miss Havisham's lawyer, Jaggers, informs him he has come into great wealth. But who exactly is the source of his mysterious new fortune? And perhaps it is not so easy -- or desirable -- to leave his humble past behind.

Customer Reviews:

Mr. Dickens's Divorce Tells in this Story........2007-04-06

Mr. Dickens wrote the strange story "Great Expectations" in 1861, after leaving his wife. Mr. Dickens married his wife Catherine in 1836. They were married 21-years; during which he wrote his great novels: "Oliver Twist"-1839, "A Christmas Carol"-1843, and "David Copperfield"-1850. Mr. Dickens left his wife and mother of ten children, about 1857.

Unlike "Great Expectations", Mr. Dickens's great novels follow a high-minded thought; balance with moments of cheer, triumph for the main character, adventure, and interesting characters. A novel is not a classic just because it is: old, assigned by your English teacher, or written by the writer of other novels indeed brilliant. "Great Expectations" has portions which show Mr. Dickens's ability; however overall it lacks the charm and elements that make his other stories great, true, enjoyable, classics.

This 1981-version has a better first episode than the 1999-version; but then drags painfully; wearing the viewer out. Too much time on the dreary. The 1999-version leaves you empty in the end. The 1947-version of "Great Expectations" is best; with John Mills, father of Haley Mills. The 1947-version pulls out the cheerier portions of the novel and focuses on them, for a story of some interest.

Mr. Dickens's, "Nicholas Nickelby", written in 1839, is better.

Not worth the money or the time........2007-01-27

I agree with the other reviews about too much emphasis on the bleak, and dragging on interminably. No movement. No captivation. Unfortunately filmed in short segments, so you have to deal with opening and closing credits, etc. frequently.

I did find it hard to follow the dialog with the various dialects of the characters, so I wanted to use subtitle. Alas! Subtitles are not enabled on DVDs in this series (BBC white covers). I switched from viewing the DVD via the component connection to viewing via the coax "VCR" connection. That allowed me to take advantage of the television's closed captioning capabilities. However, I had to sacrifice picture quality.

Eh.......2006-04-10

It kind of looked like a play you'd watch in person rather than a movie. Granted it was made in the 80's but there are so many awkward pauses and comments made by the characters you can't help but notice it. I think it's absolutely ridiculous that after each scene they have to have a big long list of all the actors in the scene and this ridiculous dying flower bouquet that lasts for like a minute. The characters are still beautiful and it is true to Victorian form. I'm not sure whether or not I recommend this movie.

Too long!.......2006-01-01

What started out to be a suspensful movie dragged in the last several episodes. I found myself begging for it to finish, and even then, the ending was very dull. My daughter and I finished the over 300 minute movie with an "Oh, well." We love period movies, but this one is better borrowed or rented than bought for a library. I will admit the Old Miss Haversham was the most enjoyable character to watch. I would recommend other Dickens Classics such as "Our Mutual Friend."

Best movie in the world!.......2005-05-22

It is very faithful to the book. The actors are great, especially Pip, ages 8 and adult, the 12 year old isnt so good. Herbert is excellent, and this is around 5 hours long, and just wonderful, touching and classic.

Charles Dickens Collection (David Copperfield / Oliver Twist / Great Expectations)

Average customer rating:

Charles Dickens DVD Collection
Charles Dickens Collection
Showcasing three popular classics by the acclaimed and popular English author Charles Dickens

Charles Dickens Collection (David Copperfield / Oliver Twist / Great Expectations)
Starring: Emilia Fox , Pauline Quirke , Maggie Smith , John Normington , and Daniel Radcliffe
Director: Simon Curtis , Renny Rye , and Julian Jarrold
Manufacturer: WGBH BOSTON
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Mystery | Mystery & Suspense | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Mystery & Suspense | Genres | DVD | Video

WGBH Boston | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

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ASIN: B000A7DW94
Release Date: 2005-10-25

Description

This deluxe DVD set features three classic Charles Dickens stories- David Copperfield (starring Daniel Radcliffe of Harry Potter), Oliver Twist (starring Sam Smith as Oliver and Robert Lindsay of Horatio Hornbloweras master thief Fagin), and Great Expectations (starring Ioan Gruffudd of Horatio Hornblower and Charlotte Rampling of Swimming Pool).

Customer Reviews:

Charles Dickens DVD Collection.......2007-01-04

The TV scripts are not as well written as some movie versions of the past. This version of Great Expectations (for example) is too dark for my taste.

Charles Dickens Collection.......2007-01-04

Excellent love all of the videos a great present for any Dickens fan.

Showcasing three popular classics by the acclaimed and popular English author Charles Dickens.......2005-11-08

The Charles Dickens Collection is a DVD boxed set showcasing three popular classics by the acclaimed and popular English author Charles Dickens: David Copperfield; Oliver Twist; and Great Expectations. These British television productions are enhanced with some of the best set designed and some of the most accomplished actors British theatre has to offer. The costuming is simply outstanding, the adaptations of Dicken's novel for the screen are superb, and the DVD format brings the viewer a true "theatre in the home" experience. With a total running time of 720 minutes, The Charles Dickens Collection is a five disc boxed set would make an enduringly popular addition to any community library DVD collection -- and should be considered "must see TV" by anyone who appreciates the high production values of these timely and timeless stories.

Kaleido Star - Great Expectations (Vol. 3)

Average customer rating:

A Turn for the Better

Kaleido Star - Great Expectations (Vol. 3)
Starring: Kaleido Star
Manufacturer: Adv Films
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Anime & Manga | Genres | DVD | Video

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ASIN: B0002IQF4U
Release Date: 2004-08-03

Description

Layla, Kaleido Stage's biggest star, finally gets her chance to shine on the silver screen. A film director wants Layla for a movie which could mean the chance for Sora to step into Layla's place. However, Layla already enjoys fame and fortune; acting for the cameras may not be all it's cracked up to be. But first, Sora must intervene when a figure steps put of the shadows from Anna's past. People are not always the way we remembered them and Anna will have to face the truth and public embarrassment before she call reconcile with her broken heart. Later, Layla and Sora will battle it out in a high seas adventure as the Kaleido Stage host a new production complete with a flying fire ship. And the entire Kaleido crew gets a much needed vacation, but the trip turns out to be more than Sora bargained for. Of course, the fool has predicted all in the cards! Be prepared to be amazed as Sora and her friends fly to new heights high above the Kaleido Stage!

Customer Reviews:

A Turn for the Better.......2005-01-12

This is an animated series about a teenage girl named Sora who leaves Japan to join Kaleido Stage, a circus that seems to be inspired by the real-world Cirque du Soleil. It is primarily intended for a younger, female audience, and through the first three volumes, has no objectionable content worse than a lecherous spirit whose ploys always fail and the occasional shower scene comparable to TV soap and shampoo commercials. I would rate it PG verging on G, and have no problems showing it to children of any age.

The third volume of Kaleido Star marks a change from the initial volumes, which focus primarily on Sora's audacity and willingness to defy the rules of Kaleido Stage to prove her worth. Kaleido Star is at its best when focused on the actual performances; its animators' skill and imagination shine when portraying the show's gymnastic sequences.

In Episode #9, the volume's first, Sora is challenged to make her first leading role her own. Several previous episodes have contained heavy-handed lessons about show business; in this episode, the lesson is delivered more skillfully, and the overall result, combined with the fine show imagery, is satisfying.

Episode #10 deals with Anna, one of the supporting characters. It does a good job of fleshing out her backstory, and the dramatic device employed for the climax is effective, although I found myself wishing it had been directed by Kunihiko Ikuhara, Hideaki Anno, or another anime director with more skill at delivering emotional punch. The episode has the material, but does not execute as well as it could.

Episode #11 and #12 focus on Sora's relationship with Layla, the female star of Kaleido Stage, as they train for, and then execute on, their first cooperative performance. Here the show really begins to shine -- both Layla and Sora are portrayed sympathetically and in situations that fit the show's setting. In Episode #11, the pair compete; in Episode #12, the two learn to work together. The contrast in situations gives both characters a chance to define themselves. Combined with the episodes' focus on gymnastics and a hilarious side sequence with Miss Sarah, these episodes made for a great night of entertainment.

Overall Recommendation: if you've been enjoying Kaleido Star for the first two volumes, keep going! If you have found the show slow, but are still willing to watch more, this may be the volume that grabs your interest.

Average customer rating:

Not what I expected
Romance
So watchable
Ethan Hawke brings no expectation of acting skills to a totally ridiculous film!
Beautifull movie filmed in a beautifull place.

Great Expectations (1998)
Starring: Ethan Hawke , Gwyneth Paltrow , Hank Azaria , Chris Cooper , and Anne Bancroft
Director: Alfonso Cuarón
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000BOH904
Release Date: 2002-05-21

Amazon.com

Description

Customer Reviews:

Not what I expected.......2007-09-09

Romance.......2007-08-26

In this movie the passage of time is clear. Great love story.

Corey Cotta, Author of All of Yesterdays Tomorrows.

So watchable.......2007-07-29

Ethan Hawke brings no expectation of acting skills to a totally ridiculous film!.......2007-06-29

Beautifull movie filmed in a beautifull place........2007-06-10

Average customer rating:

Not what I expected
Romance
So watchable
Ethan Hawke brings no expectation of acting skills to a totally ridiculous film!
Beautifull movie filmed in a beautifull place.

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

4-for-3 Drama | 4-for-3 DVD | Stores | DVD | Video

4-for-3 All DVDs | 4-for-3 DVD | Stores | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( G ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B00080ZG5G
Release Date: 2002-05-21

Amazon.com

Description

Customer Reviews:

Not what I expected.......2007-09-09

Romance.......2007-08-26

In this movie the passage of time is clear. Great love story.

Corey Cotta, Author of All of Yesterdays Tomorrows.

So watchable.......2007-07-29

Ethan Hawke brings no expectation of acting skills to a totally ridiculous film!.......2007-06-29