Charles Dickens Collection (1999)

This deluxe DVD set features three classic Charles Dickens stories- David Copperfield (starring Daniel Radcliffe of Harry Potter), Oliver Twist (starring Sam Smith as Oliver and Robert Lindsay of Horatio Hornbloweras master thief Fagin), and Great Expectations (starring Ioan Gruffudd of Horatio Hornblower and Charlotte Rampling of Swimming Pool).

A good Dickens sampler

This DVD set features adaptations of three of Dickens' most popular books: David Copperfield, Oliver Twist, and Great Expectations. They were shown a few years ago on PBS' Masterpiece Theatre. Some of the fine actors include Daniel Radcliffe, Sam Smith, Ioan Gruffold, and Charlotte Rampling. They are (for the most part) faithful recreations of the original stories.

A possible good alternative to this item would be the Charles Dickens Collections 1 and 2, which contain more programs, but they are on the double-sided DVD's. Those sets are now greatly reduced in price and contain at least one of the dramas in this set (David Copperfield with Daniel Radcliffe). If you already purchased this set and want more adaptations, the dramas in the larger two sets are available separately. However, this set has excellent quality DVD's with great sound and picture, which may be an advantage since some reviewers of the larger collections found the technology of the programs to be somewhat lacking in quality.

You will have to buy A Christmas Carol separately, but there are many movie versions of it available. The dramas in this set are from Dickens' three most appealing books besides the story of Scrooge. November 21, 2007

Charles Dickens DVD Collection

The TV scripts are not as well written as some movie versions of the past. This version of Great Expectations (for example) is too dark for my taste. January 4, 2007

Charles Dickens Collection

Excellent love all of the videos a great present for any Dickens fan. January 4, 2007

Showcasing three popular classics by the acclaimed and popular English author Charles Dickens

The Charles Dickens Collection is a DVD boxed set showcasing three popular classics by the acclaimed and popular English author Charles Dickens: David Copperfield; Oliver Twist; and Great Expectations. These British television productions are enhanced with some of the best set designed and some of the most accomplished actors British theatre has to offer. The costuming is simply outstanding, the adaptations of Dicken's novel for the screen are superb, and the DVD format brings the viewer a true "theatre in the home" experience. With a total running time of 720 minutes, The Charles Dickens Collection is a five disc boxed set would make an enduringly popular addition to any community library DVD collection -- and should be considered "must see TV" by anyone who appreciates the high production values of these timely and timeless stories.
November 8, 2005

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