Oliver! (DVD, 1998, 30th Anniversary Tribute Edition; Closed Caption)

For a musical, this is an enjoyable (and not too dated) version of Charles Dickens' "Oliver Twist." In fact, the score and choreography actually add to the charm of the movie rather than detract from it. I bought this DVD primarily at my elderly parents' request. They enjoy the story of a poor unwanted orphan in a world of hardships who triumphs in the end. When they watch it, I can't help but sit down and join them. Bill Sykes, played by Oliver Reed, made his final movie in 2000's "Gladiator" before passing. The Artful Dodger, Jack Wild, died several years ago. Don't know whatever happened to the careers of Shani Wallis (who sang her heart out as Nancy) and Mark Lester (Oliver), but they will all be remembered in this film.

The Artful Dodger and Fagan!! Rod Moody and Jack Wild portray These 2 Charactors very well with Oliver Reed making the Charactor of Bill Sikes Exceptional!! The tunes I have remembered All My life and want to dance along with. You have to like musicals to really take to this movie. The songs with the acting to go with them truely make the movie a 2 Thumbs up. Mark Lester, who plays Oliver, voice is like hearing a angel! Hard to see him now as a Chiropractor, but if he can sing like that while working on my back, I'd gladly go through the pain!! Brings the laughs and the Tears. Take the time to watch and listen! Sad to know Jack Wild, Who also stared in H R Puffnstuff, died in 2006 @ the age of 54 with Mouth Cancer after having his Tongue and Larinex removed 3 years prior. Loved listening to his English accent!

Funny how things from your childhood pop back up. "Oliver!" was one of the movies we actually went to see in a theatre. Several months ago we saw it again on TV. The striking thing what how my nephew resembled Mark Lester who played Oliver Twist. Wow! If I could get that on DVD for my sister for Christmas that would be great. Too bad -- out of print. I almost bought a copy on a trip to London this summer. Too bad -- wrong format.
My old friend eBay to the rescue.
Can't wait till Christmas day for the unwrapping & the perfect present is revealed.
Thanks, eBayers. Theresa

It's a classic! Like all great musicals, it has dance scenes where you'd never see them in real life (e.g., in a workhouse, in a Victorian London slum) and wonderfully silly-sweet songs like "Where is Love?" I have the dramatic "Oliver Twist" and love all of Dickens' stuff. Dickens rolls in his grave when this show plays, but it's not Dickens - it's Broadway!

Oliver! is possibly one of the most enjoyable movie musicals ever produced. The music, cinematography, and casting are done to perfection. Sir Carol Reed's masterful handling of such an elaborate and complex production shows in every musical number and dramatic scene. The digitally restored version that is available now, looks as though the movie was only recently released. Oliver! is a completely wonderful piece of entertainment that is a must for any movie collection.