TV Series Review: Martin Chuzzlewit (1994)
“Martin Chuzzlewit” is a six-part BBC miniseries based on Charles Dickens’ lesser-known novel of the same name. This story isn’t big on romance; instead, it offers a biting critique of greed and how it corrupts people. The plot dives deep into societal issues and features quite a few unsavory characters, all brought to life by a talented cast.
The lineup includes Paul Scofield, Tom Wilkinson, Pete Postlethwaite, Julia Sawalha, Emma Chambers, Elizabeth Spriggs, Philip Franks, and Ben Walden, among others. Even Sir John Mills makes a memorable comic cameo. With such an excellent ensemble of actors, the series still shines despite its lack of romantic elements.
Meet Seth Pecksniff
Though the novel is named after Martin Chuzzlewit, the spotlight is on Seth Pecksniff, played by Wilkinson. Pecksniff is a sycophantic architect driven by social climbing ambitions. He’s a despicable character, always scheming to gain an upper hand, and Wilkinson’s performance captures his slimy nature perfectly.
Initially, Pecksniff flatters Martin Chuzzlewit Jr. (Walden) but soon shifts his focus to the senior Chuzzlewit (Scofield) to serve his ambitions better. Everyone in this story, including many of Chuzzlewit Sr.’s poorer relations, is trying to curry favor with him. Martin Chuzzlewit Sr. is a wealthy yet miserly character, eliciting comparisons to Ebeneezer Scrooge.
Pecksniff, though a distant relative, joins others hoping to benefit from Chuzzlewit Sr.’s wealth. Among these greedy individuals, there’s even a character named Chevy Slyme, which aptly describes the nature of the people surrounding Chuzzlewit Sr.
Without delving into every plot twist, it’s enough to say Dickens masterfully weaves in themes of unrequited love, murder, violence, and manipulation. The story is filled with surprising turns and complex characters.
Thoughtful and Thought-Provoking
An undercurrent of this series is the treatment of women. Pecksniff’s daughters, Charity (Chambers) and Mercy (Sawalha), are raised to reflect their father’s snobbery. Pecksniff doesn’t hesitate to marry off one of his daughters for social gain, despite the suitor’s cruel nature. Mercy, portrayed with pre-Lydia Bennet charm by Sawalha, agrees to the marriage, but her post-wedding transformation is deeply moving. Even Martin Chuzzlewit Sr. tries to warn her about her cruel husband, though Pecksniff remains blind to it, driven by his own greed.
Overall Thoughts
“Martin Chuzzlewit” is a compelling story about the extremes to which people will go for wealth. It offers a pointed critique of capitalism, banks, investment schemes, and entitlements. Despite its serious themes, the series balances humor with the more despicable aspects of human nature. It’s exceptionally well-acted and thought-provoking.
Content Note: Suitable for a PG audience due to thematic elements.
Where to Watch: DVD.
