While I’m not particularly familiar with the Dickens novel or character of David Copperfield a quick read up describes this as an addition to the growing body of work that is the “re-imagining” of a classic.
What does a re-imagined David Copperfield look like? In Armando Iannucci’s version we get a beautifully created Dickension world, we get a diverse cast (that seems to have upset much of the “political correctness gone mad” brigade) who all bring some fun and vibrancy to the screen.
A bit like my last cinema trip, Bombshell, what this film doesn’t quite deliver in story telling, is compensated by wonderful performances, Dev Patel is a fine screen presence and delivers a hugely enjoyable central performance, he is brilliantly supported across the film, Hugh Laurie the pick for me playing the confused Mr. Dick with wit, charm and heart. Tilda Swinton is excellent as Copperfield’s aunt and Peter Capaldi delivers an excellent “wide boy” Mr. Micawber again getting the balance between humour and heart perfect.
Copperfield didn’t completely grab me throughout and it felt longer than its 2 hour running time, but there was a lot to enjoy with some fine performances non more so than Dev Patel. It won’t be to everyone’s taste, but entertained me enough.
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