Sadly, I don't think anyone under the age of 40 will have the patience - or interest - to view this work of art.
I just watched this film on the "This TV" channel; curious title, but when I saw it was based on a work by Charles Dickens I decided it was definitively worth a try.
Dickens presents us with timeless lessons (very relevant to our present lives) in this film about the human condition - a tale about hard work, perseverance, humility, greed, hate, compassion, love (unrequited and rediscovered), devotion and so much more.
The film unfolded clumsily and I nearly dismissed it; so glad I didn't.
A tapestry unfolds of increasing richness and complexity. Dickens presents us with brilliant dialogue and fascinating characters.
There were empty and silent moments - almost unbearably empty . . . that shouted "LOOK & LISTEN!" - see and hear with your heart.
Emptiness bears down upon the viewer; no attempt to shelter us from those "empty" moments with overbearing background music. Nor are there attempts to shorten our discomfort - in fear of our short attention spans.
Now-a days - only a poorly funded "indie" film would dare to risk such a slowly unfolding tale; a quiet tale of a plain, delicate flower - born in the gutter; surviving via some unseen strength and resilience; humbly persevering and outshining all around her.
It is easy (too easy?) to find fault; tear apart a beautiful work such as this - and many do. But, I celebrate this masterpiece which offers us so very much.
There is treasure in Little Dorrit - for all times - for those willing to discover it.
Thank you Charles Dickens - for all your masterful works; the golden threads that unite us all.
