This is a musical that has stood the test of time.With many memorable songs and an excellent cast,this film has some fabulous sets and a certain charm.
Special mention must go to Ron Moody who makes an excellent Fagin,Jack Wilde a charming Dodger and Oliver Reed who makes for a very menacing Bill Sykes.The film is perhaps a tad too long but this is still an top drawer musical and a recommended purchase.
The extras are a bit on the thin side which is a pity but there is enough here to satisfy any fan of musicals.
You know this classic story by now of the boy who asked for more...Oliver Twist played touchingly in the best version on celluloid by Mark Lester...He is one of many workhouse orphans lead by the authoritarian Mr Bumble (Harry Secombe) who decides to sell Oliver to a local Funeral Director in the form of (Leonard Rossiter) of Rising Damp fame. Oliver escapes from here after a fight only to find himself making his way to 19th Century London where he befriends "The Artful Dodger" (Jack Wild) a steetwise pick pocket who takes Oliver for shelter to the affable professional pick pocket Fagin (Ron Moody) whose role probably will be remembered for a most fantastic performance. Here Oliver comes to know Fagin in an touching way.Oliver learns of his past with fate determining his destiny. The infamous Bill Sykes (Oliver Reed) is the only person that can hold Oliver from his childhood dream but Oliver is aided by Sykes girlfriend Nancy (Shani Wallis)...Therein lies the finale of one of the most perfect musical scores of all time ....From the tear jerking "Where is Love" performed by (Mark Lester) to the toe tapping "Be Back Soon" performed by Ron Moody there is much to recommend about this classy musical...backed up with hits galore you will also hear "Food Glorious Food","As Long as He needs me", "Consider Yourself", "Oom-pah-pah" and more..... you will be totally awestruck of the sheer brilliance of this Top rated Family Musical that has entertained millions since it's 1968 release and is likely to entertain millions of young and old in years to come....Superb Family entertainment