NICHOLAS NICKLEBY (2002) with Christopher Plummer, Anne Hathaway, Alan Cumming – Fri Dec 11, 6:30pm

Charles Dickens’ world of colorful eccentrics, formidable villains, and unexpected kindness comes vividly to life in Nicholas Nickleby (2002), written and directed by Douglas McGrath. Following his father’s death, young Nicholas (Charlie Hunnam) travels to London with his mother and sister, hoping for help from his wealthy uncle Ralph (Christopher Plummer). Instead, Nicholas is sent to work at a brutal Yorkshire boarding school, where he befriends the mistreated Smike (Jamie Bell). Their escape launches an adventure involving a traveling theatrical company, romance, and Nicholas’ determination to protect his family from exploitation. Combining comedy with heartfelt drama, the film preserves Dickens’ passionate concern for vulnerable children and his belief in the redemptive power of friendship and generosity.

Distinguished by its exceptional ensemble, sumptuous period design, and Rachel Portman’s score, Nicholas Nicklebymakes Dickens’ sprawling novel accessible while retaining its humor, emotional force, and social conscience. The cast includes Anne Hathaway, Romola Garai, Nathan Lane, Jim Broadbent, Juliet Stevenson, Tom Courtenay, Alan Cumming, Timothy Spall, and Barry Humphries. The film won the National Board of Review’s 2002 award for Best Acting by an Ensemble and received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Motion Picture—Musical or Comedy. Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times called it “jolly and exciting and brimming with life, and wonderfully well-acted,” while John Hazelton of Screen International praised its “warm and engaging” storytelling.

Runtime: 132 minutes (2 hours, 12 minutes). Rated PG for thematic material involving some violent action and a childbirth scene.