Plot Details: This opinion reveals no details about the movie's plot.

This is a wonderful film to make a big bowl of popcorn and snuggle into the couch with on a typical Friday night when there is absolutely nothing on t.v. to watch. This is classic movie making based on top notch writing -- you can't go wrong.

Based on the novel by Charles Dickens, this 1946 release is full of Great Expectations and it delivers. The plot twists and turns as the life of our young protagonist named Pip unfolds from boyhood to young man. A fellow of modest birth, Pip is sent to school and transformed into a young gentleman through the kindness of an unknown benefactor. Pip has a good idea whom his benefactor is but is instructed not to try to guess, and that all will be revealed to him in due course. In the mean time Pip (John Mills) carries a torch for the love of his life from childhood in spite of the fact that she makes every effort to discourage him.

Dickens transforms easily to the screen I believe because of the great imagery and full bodied, three dimensional characters which are a staple of his writing style. This great writing is united with a cast of wonderful actors who give full respect and depth to their respective roles. You will never forget the performances of the aging jilted bride Ms. Havisham (Martita Hunt); Pip's trustee, the bombastic Mr. Jaggers (Francis L. Sullivan); and of course the beautiful, cold Estella (Jean Simmons). Other notables include Pip's brother-in-law Joe; the convict Magwitch; and Jagger's assistant whose name escapes me right now. I love one somewhat insignificant scene where this assistant invites Pip to his home where he cares for his elderly father whom he refer to as "aged P." It is classic Dickens.

I am sure it is plain snobbery and prejudice on my part but I never enjoy the more modern color versions of Dickens' stories as much as I do these old black and white versions. Black and white film emphasizes shadows and contrast of light which complement this film where the truth is never fully told and secrets lurk everywhere. Also, I don't think of the lives of Dickensian characters to be full of color. These are by-and-large bleak times which is a Dickensian theme as is the contrast between the haves and have-nots.

Great Expectations is a story of contrasts. It is a story of rich and poor; good and evil; love and hate; right and wrong all woven into an intricate possibly decaying tapestry. It is full of suspense and drama. Turn down the lights, take the phone off the hook and enjoy this uninterrupted with a friend or your family. In my opinion this film can be enjoyed by adults, and children 9 and older. I give it four eyeballs on my four eyeball scale because it has great writing, great directing, great acting and Great Expectations fulfilled.


Recommended: Yes

Viewing Format: VHS
Video Occasion: Fit for Friday Evening
Suitability For Children: Suitable for Children Age 9 - 12