Bleak House

Charles Dickens’ classic novel of 1852-1853 was already loved by the likes of Chesterton and King. This is the latest adaptation to become something of a watershed moment among the BBC's series leading up to the 200th anniversary of Dickens’ birth. Oliver Twist, Little Dorrit, Great Expectations, and The Mystery of Edwin Drood all followed. The cast is strong, Carey Mulligan is wonderfully fragile and Gillian Anderson is excellent in the suffering she has to bottle up. I just think 4 or 5 episodes would be enough because 8 is really too much. Although, the critical theme of a protracted justice system that has been destroying entire families for generations is, of course, excellent. (2019-04-25)