A little-known 1994 BBC period drama based on a Charles Dickens novel is quietly winning over audiences on Amazon Prime Video. The six-episode series, originally aired on BBC Two from November to December 1994, is being celebrated as 'the best Charles Dickens TV adaptation of all time'.
Hidden Gem on Amazon Prime
Based on Dickens' 1844 novel of the same name, Martin Chuzzlewit has captivated viewers who are calling it an 'excellent masterpiece' that is 'perfect in every way'. Adapted for television by David Lodge and directed by Pedr James, the series features an ensemble cast including Tom Wilkinson, Paul Scofield, Pete Postlethwaite, Keith Allen, Pauline Turner, Philip Franks, Elizabeth Spriggs, John Mills, Julia Sawalha, Emma Chambers, and Steve Nicolson.
The official plot reads: 'Old Martin Chuzzlewit is nearing his death. Who will inherit his riches? With such a prize to play for, the Chuzzlewit family bring forth all of their cunning, greed and selfishness.' Every actor has been praised for their 'outstanding' performances.
Critical Acclaim and Awards
Following its release, Martin Chuzzlewit received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Miniseries and six BAFTA nominations, including Best Actor. It ultimately secured the BAFTA for Best Costume Design.
One IMDb reviewer wrote: 'This is an excellent adaptation of a fine novel... without question the best adaptation of a Dickens novel that I have seen.' Another fan said: 'I was absolutely stunned by this BBC-miniseries: it's almost perfect in every way... I give this production a heartfelt 10 out of 10.' A third review called it 'one of the best Dickens adaptations of the past 25 years' and praised its 'fabulous' production values.
Martin Chuzzlewit is streaming now on Amazon Prime.
