Polanski has also de-anti-Semitized Fagin. This version is a far cry from the old Alec Guinness interpretation that depicted Fagin as an evil Jewish caricature. This Fagin, as played by a barely recognizable Ben Kingsley, is both a wicked leader of his gang of thieves and a man with a streak of kindness that runs counter to his role in life. There is no accent on Jewishness, whether in his manner or his costuming. There is the big nose, but that is more a physical characteristic than the caricature present in Guinness’ version in the David Lean movie.

Polanski has nailed down the Dickensian atmosphere of poverty, workhouses and petty thievery with convincing visuals, and Harwood keeps the story perculating in a reflection of Dickens’ as master yarn-spinner. Young Barney Clark is a find as very likable Oliver Twist. He looks pathetic, yet appealing and blessed with the determination of a survivor. Does Polanski see something of himself in Oliver?

Jamie Foreman makes a suitably villainous Bill Sykes, with Leanne Rowe as an effective Nancy. Harry Eden plays the Artful Dodger, but the story power lies with the Oliver-Sykes-Fagin combination. The film is suspenseful and at some points scary, and there is darkness in the telling rather than any effort to be sunny, as in the musical adaptation This version really has the look of poverty required and it works on our emotions rather than on our prejudices.