BLEAK HOUSE (1985)

This worthy version of the great Charles Dickens book suffers from its stately pace even more than the recent version (2005) cowered from an over-hyped presentation. Unaccountably, though the story is more closely followed in ‘85, more plot is crammed into the ‘05 version. As Lady Dedlock & John Jarndyce, Diana Rigg & Denholm Elliot are untouchable, but most of the other roles tilt toward the new version, especially Esther (Anna Maxwell Martin) and a truly wonderful Guppy from Burn Gorman. What can one say, read the astounding book, watch both versions. And hold tight for the death from spontaneous combustion.