Film Review: The Moonstone (1996)
The Moonstone is a BBC adaptation of Wilkie Collins’ famous detective novel first published in 1868. Collins’ book is often hailed as the first-ever detective novel, making it a must-read for fans of the genre. However, I watched the movie before diving into the book.
This adaptation aired as a two-part miniseries and stands out as a period drama featuring Greg Wise and Keeley Hawes. These two are well-known names in period dramas, adding significant draw to this adaptation. The supporting cast is impressive as well. Peter Vaughan shines in every scene as the butler Betteredge, bringing depth to his character. For those familiar with ITV’s Afterlife, Lesley Sharp plays a peculiar maid with second sight, which aligns interestingly with her later role as a psychic in Afterlife.
In brief, the casting for The Moonstone is top-notch, showcasing the quality typical of a BBC production.
The Moonstone
The story revolves around Rachel Verinder (Hawes), who inherits a large diamond from her estranged uncle, meant to be gifted on her birthday. Franklin Blake (Wise), her cousin and executor of the uncle’s estate, arrives to deliver the diamond. Franklin, who’s been away from the British Isles for years, is instantly taken by Rachel, who has clearly grown up.
This diamond, known as the moonstone, is invaluable and shrouded in mystery, having been violently stolen from a sacred Indian shrine years ago. Many believe it to be cursed, with its original guardians vowing to recover it no matter the cost.
As Rachel dons the diamond at her birthday dinner, mysterious Indian figures make an appearance. She later places the gem in an unlocked drawer in her room, only to discover it missing the next morning.
The loss of the moonstone creates turmoil in the household. Distrust brews as everyone becomes a suspect. Rachel withdraws from the investigation and distances herself from Franklin, who brings in Sergeant Cuff (Antony Sher) to look into the matter, convinced it’s an inside job.
While I don’t want to spoil the plot, know that there is no shortage of suspects and twists. Only as the anniversary of the diamond’s disappearance approaches do significant developments in the case emerge.
Sensationalist Melodrama
Honestly, the plot felt rather sensationalist and melodramatic. Finding out who stole the moonstone and the method behind it had me, a modern mystery reader, puzzled and amused. While the mystery genre can lean towards the farfetched, the romance between our two leads feels more like a convenient plot element due to their limited screen time together.
Even so, the film managed to entertain me. Despite occasional confusion, the excellent cast and stunning cinematography make it worthwhile. Embracing the over-the-top melodrama allows for an enjoyable, if slightly ridiculous, viewing experience.
Where to Watch: DVD.
Content Note: There’s minimal offensive content—no strong language, nudity, or gore. The most dramatic moment is a character’s slow, self-inflicted death in a mud pit, depicted in a very theatrical manner with an outstretched hand as the last visible sign.
Have you read the novel or seen the movie? Share your thoughts in the comments.
