Oliver!

Oliver!

Year: 1968

Runtime: 153 min

Language: English

Director: Carol Reed

DramaFamilyMusical

In this timeless musical drama, plucky orphan Oliver Twist navigates the treacherous streets of Victorian London, befriending a gang of scrappy pickpockets led by the cunning Artful Dodger. But when kind-hearted Mr. Brownlow offers Oliver a chance at a new life, Fagin's ruthless henchman Bill Sikes will stop at nothing to silence him forever.

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Timeline & Setting – Oliver! (1968)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Oliver! (1968). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1837

The narrative unfolds during the era surrounding the New Poor Law of 1837, a time marked by severe social issues and poverty in Britain. This period saw many vulnerable individuals, particularly orphans, subjected to harsh treatment and exploitation. The film captures the essence of societal challenges during this time, reflecting the lives of the impoverished.

Location

Workhouse, London

The film begins in a grim workhouse where malnourished boys are confined under strict and harsh conditions. This setting represents the bleak realities faced by the poor in 19th-century England. London, where Oliver ends up, serves as the backdrop for his adventures and encounters, showcasing both the struggles and the vibrancy of city life.

🏚️ Workhouse 🌆 London

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:06

Main Characters – Oliver! (1968)
Meet the key characters of Oliver! (1968), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Oliver Twist

Oliver is a young, gentle-hearted orphan whose innocence and hope persist even in the darkest circumstances. Throughout the film, he demonstrates bravery as he navigates the harsh realities of life on the streets. His emotional depth and longing for love make him a sympathetic character.

👦 Orphan 💖 Innocence

Mr. Bumble

Mr. Bumble is the self-important and cruel workhouse beadle who embodies the oppressive societal structures of the time. His harsh treatment of the boys, especially Oliver, showcases his lack of empathy and moral integrity. Bumble's character serves as a representation of detrimental authority figures.

👨‍⚖️ Authority 😡 Cruelty

Fagin

Fagin is a manipulative and dubious character who introduces Oliver to thievery and a life of crime. Charismatic yet untrustworthy, he is a complex figure who represents the moral ambiguity of his environment. Fagin's influence on Oliver raises questions about choice and vulnerability.

👴 Manipulator 🔪 Crime

Nancy

Nancy is a vibrant yet troubled character who loves Bill Sikes despite his violent nature. Her songs express her struggles and the complexity of her feelings, highlighting the theme of love amidst adversity. Nancy's loyalty and turmoil make her a tragic figure in the narrative.

💔 Loyalty 🎶 Tragedy

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:06

Major Themes – Oliver! (1968)
Explore the central themes of Oliver! (1968), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Childhood Hardship

The film explores the struggles and resilience of children in adverse circumstances. Oliver's journey highlights the loss of innocence and the harsh realities of life as an orphan. Despite the challenges, themes of hope and the quest for love and belonging are prevalent throughout the story.

🎭 Survival and Crime

Survival instincts drive characters like Oliver and the Artful Dodger into a life of crime. The portrayal of theft and deception raises questions about morality and societal influence on behavior. The film delves into the consequences of desperation and the sometimes blurred lines between right and wrong.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:06

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