DVD Corner

Oliver! 4K UHD Review

“Oliver!” is a grand musical.

Based on the 1960 stage musical, 1968’s “Oliver!” is a British musical film version of Charles Dickens’ classic novel “Oliver Twist” penned by Vernon Harris. The story begins with an orphaned Oliver at a grueling workhouse. When he literally draws a straw to ask for seconds, he is essentially kicked out and sold on the streets. An Undertaker briefly takes him in before Oliver runs away to London where he meets The Artful Dodgers and Fagin’s band of pickpockets and later the sinister burglar Bill and his girlfriend Nancy (who looks out for Oliver). As Oliver tries his hand at being a thief by stealing Mr. Brownlow’s wallet, Oliver is unexpectedly taken in by the kindly man. Unfortunately, Bill wants Oliver back as he is worried he will spill the beans about the criminals. 

There’s a reason “Oliver!” won the Oscar for Best Picture as it’s the type of musical that is both timeless and 100% cinematic. Director Carol Reed (best known for classics like “The Third Man” and “Odd Man Out”) may be most well known for film noir stories, but the renowned British filmmaker turned out to be an inspired choice to helm this musical. With the aid of choreographer Onna White, the two make “Oliver!” an energetic and compelling musical filled with classic tunes like “Food, Glorious Food,” “Consider Yourself” (which is an earworm if there ever was one), and “I’d Do Anything” and expertly shot song and dance numbers. Some musicals tend to feel a bit stagy as that is where they were often born, but “Oliver!” takes full advantage of being a movie with big sets, lavish costumes, and prime location shooting. The result? A wildly entertaining cinematic experience with unforgettable moments from the opening gruel scene to Oliver being chased by police. 

A musical is only as good as its cast and the film is fortunate enough to have perfect casting with the likes of Oliver Reed (Bill), Mark Lester (Oliver Twist), Shani Wallis (Nancy) and Harry Secombe (Mr. Bumble). The two best performances come from Jack Wild (who is note perfect as The Artful Dodger) and Ron Moody who may very well give the finest and most soulful performance of Fagin on screen.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.35:1 2160p. How does it look? This is a truly gorgeous new print. The image quality is so sharp that the film looks brand new. Easily the best the film has ever looked.

Audio Track: Dolby Atmos. How does it sound? Expect a dynamic Atmos track. The musical numbers really soar here. 

Extras:
* Digital copy
* Commentary by film historian Steven C. Smith.
* “Jack Wild Screen Test”
* Theatrical, teaser, and awards trailers.
* Sing-alongs, dance-alongs, and dance and sing-alongs.
* “Original Behind-The-Scenes Featurette”
* “Meeting Oliver!”- An archival near 15 minute interview with Mark Lester.
* “”Meeting Fagin!”- An archival 13 ½ minute Ron Moody interview.
* “The Locations Of Oliver!”- A look at shooting locations from the film.

June 5, 2025 - Posted by nicklyons1 | 4K UHD Review | Carol Reed, musical, Oliver Reed, Oliver Twist, Oliver! 4K UHD Review, Oscars, Ron Moody