Although I very much enjoyed this updated interpretation of the classic Dickens novel, no remake has ever surpassed the authenticity of the atmosphere created so masterfully by David Lean in his glorious, if not gloomy, black and white version of 1946. Beyond the prevailing murkiness of Lean's remarkable setting, the extraordinary 1946 cast can never be duplicated, especially the unique quirkiness of many of the most eccentric characters. In my humble view, none of the young Estellas could match the bratty nastiness projected by Jean Simmons nor her stunning beauty. Furthermore, Francis J. Sullivan was born to play the role of Jagger and no other actor can even approach him in this endeavor. Thirdly, Martita Hunt sets a very high standard for Miss Havisham that simply has not been met. I could go down the entire list, but I'll stop it there for the sake of brevity.
This cast here performs admirably, and I do appreciate all of the modern cinematic techniques and gimmicks, such as the unexpected, colorful mechanization of the steamship and the specifics of Miss Havisham's worm infestation, just to mention two instances of many, but, for me, there is no substitution for the 1946 film. No one could ever strip Miss Havisham's rotting banquet table quite as dramatically and effectively as John Mills when he tries to save her from burning to death. I sorely miss elements such as that here and so much more, but if you love the book, as I do, this very different rendition must be experienced and appreciated.
This cast here performs admirably, and I do appreciate all of the modern cinematic techniques and gimmicks, such as the unexpected, colorful mechanization of the steamship and the specifics of Miss Havisham's worm infestation, just to mention two instances of many, but, for me, there is no substitution for the 1946 film. No one could ever strip Miss Havisham's rotting banquet table quite as dramatically and effectively as John Mills when he tries to save her from burning to death. I sorely miss elements such as that here and so much more, but if you love the book, as I do, this very different rendition must be experienced and appreciated.