‘Nicholas Nickleby’

The themes of this Charles Dickens story resonate long after the credits roll.

By: Jim Boyle
   Writer-director Douglas McGrath peppers a dark drama with welcome moments of humor to create a completely engaging and enjoyable film experience. Issues of family and the ties that bond are addressed and explored in a way that keeps the film’s themes resonant long after the credits roll.
   McGrath’s light touch is strengthened by a terrific ensemble cast. Charlie Hunnam plays Nicholas Nickleby with an innocent exterior, but a strong and honorable sense of right and wrong. He is up against a powerful and devious uncle, played to perfection by Christopher Plummer. Despite his despicable acts, Plummer manages to elicit a sympathetic response towards the film’s end. Accompanying Nicholas throughout most of his journey, Jamie Bell is a revelation as the crippled and lonely Smike. His spirit is never broken despite the abuse by the hands of the terrifying Squeers, played deliciously by Jim Broadbent and Juliet Stevenson, and finds joy at finally finding a family.
   Nicholas Nickleby is a true delight, telling a complex story with a few good surprises. The young hero develops nicely from a desperate boy in need of help to a man who will do anything to protect the people he loves. The film draws real emotions from the audience, but nothing is ever forced.