The classic tale Oliver Twist is a seemingly ideal subject for veteran director Roman Polanski, whose painful childhood experiences during the second world war are akin to those of the hungry and helpless orphan. But his adaptation of the Charles Dickens novel lacks passion and energy, and his indifference renders the film an average melodrama, rather than a powerful statement about human suffering. The film follows the misadventures of orphan Oliver Twist (Barney Clark), who is mistreated at the parish workhouse, sold to a timid coffin maker, ensnared by a household of street urchins headed by Fagin (Ben Kingsley) and Bill (Jamie Foreman) before being rescued by a benevolent benefactor. The film goes through these events in a detached and breezy manner, serving up scene after scene of human deprivation and suffering without leaving viewers feeling touched or inspired. Scenes of Oliver asking for more food in the workhouse and the brutal death of a kindhearted character fail to stimulate sympathy or stir up anger at the social injustice that still exists today. Polanski's plain and straightforward direction renders these poignant moments dull and emotionless. The film shines in its depiction of Fagin. By portraying him as a grandfather figure to the children he eagerly exploits, a new dimension has been added to the character. At times - such as when Oliver visits him in prison - the audience is left to ponder whether he is a villain or a victim of his era. Another standout in the movie is Bill, the film's all-out bad guy. Foreman's strong and powerful performance adds fire to the movie. His relationship with vagrant teen Nancy - brilliantly played by Leanne Row - is one of the film's few highlights. Bill and Nancy represent the lowliest creatures of society, and their fate contrasts with Oliver's happy ending. Without having met his benefactor, Oliver could have easily become either one of them. And that's the grim message that underpins both the novel and movie. VERDICT: GO TO THE MOVIES
