The BBC's celebrated period drama adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic novel Little Dorrit has been declared by audiences as the definitive screen version of the author's work, and it is now available to stream completely free of charge on BBC iPlayer. This 2008 British miniseries, which boasts an impeccable 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, continues to captivate viewers with its masterful storytelling and stellar performances.
A Critically Acclaimed Masterpiece
Little Dorrit first premiered on BBC One and BBC HD in 2008 to immediate critical acclaim. The series went on to secure seven Primetime Emmy Awards, including the prestigious top honour for Outstanding Miniseries. This joint production between the BBC and WGBH Boston also aired in the United States across five episodes as part of PBS's esteemed Masterpiece series, further cementing its international reputation.
Behind the Scenes Excellence
The miniseries was co-directed by Adam Smith, Dearbhla Walsh, and Diarmuid Lawrence, with the screenplay expertly adapted by Andrew Davies from Dickens' serialised novel published between 1855 and 1857. The production was filmed at numerous historic locations including Luton Hoo, Chenies Manor House, Hellfire Caves in Buckinghamshire, the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, and Deal Castle in Kent, with Hampton Court Palace standing in for the Marshalsea Prison that forms the central setting of the story.
Stellar Cast Led by Claire Foy
At the heart of this production is Claire Foy's remarkable performance in the lead role of Amy Dorrit, supported by an exceptional ensemble cast including Matthew Macfadyen, Tom Courtenay, Judy Parfitt, Andy Serkis, Eddie Marsan, and Alun Armstrong. In a 2011 interview with Channel 4, Foy reflected on the significance of the project, stating: "Little Dorrit will always be so important to me - it was my first big job, it was a character I got to play for six months."
Universal Critical Praise
Reviewers have consistently praised the adaptation, with one critic noting: "With a stellar cast and a fine adaptation, Little Dorrit is absorbing and entertaining." Another described it as "the closest TV has to a sure thing: a relatively short-term investment with a satisfyingly large payoff," while a third simply declared it "one of the best dramas of the year."
Audience Adoration and Legacy
Viewers have been equally enthusiastic in their appreciation, with one audience member writing: "Absolutely wonderful! Beautiful scripts, enchanting acting and mesmerizing drama! The best of the Dickens!" Another noted on IMDB: "One of the very best Dickens adaptations, even British period novel adaptations, ever." The series has been particularly praised for its perfect casting, flawless settings and costumes, impressive direction, and excellent pacing that keeps viewers engaged throughout.
A Timeless Adaptation
Despite being based on one of Dickens' less widely known novels, this adaptation has achieved what many consider to be the gold standard for literary adaptations. As one viewer observed: "It is hard to watch Little Dorrit without a stupid grin on my face. I just think it is perfect. The characters are all just as you imagined when reading the novel. It is like the book has come to life itself."
With its compelling narrative about the Dorrit family whose life revolves around the Marshalsea debtor's prison, and Amy Dorrit's journey through all strata of English society, Little Dorrit represents a triumph of television adaptation that continues to resonate with audiences nearly two decades after its initial broadcast. The series' availability on BBC iPlayer offers both new viewers and returning fans the opportunity to experience this exceptional period drama that has rightfully earned its place as one of the finest literary adaptations ever produced for television.
