From now until [ December 30th, 2000 ] , Los Angeles’ American Cinematheque will be screening films that honor the many works of Charles Dickens — the patron saint of spinsters, orphans, and larger-than-life tales. The author, who is rumored to have been paid on a per-word basis, has received over 100 film tributes.
On [ December 27th ] , the classic “Oliver Twist” will screen, with a special appearance by cinematographer Guy Green. The familiar story sparked controversy in this 1948 film adaptation — riots broke out in Berlin when “Oliver” was first shown because of assumptions that Alec Guinness’ portrayal of Fagin was anti-Semitic. The U.S. debut had to be shelved for several years in order for tensions to ease up.
[ December 28th ] features a silent double-bill of 1913’s “David Copperfield” and 1923’s “Cricket on the Hearth”. Both films will feature live musical accompaniment. For more on the “Great Expectations” tribute, including all showtimes and ticket information, see the [ Cinematheque site. ]
