This adaptation of the Dickens novel has all the intelligence, flair and energy that we have come to expect from Iannucci, and by and large it delivers beautifully. Whilst a fairly liberal adaptation of its source material, it manages to convey the freewheeling journey narrative aspect of the picaresque novel, as well as deliver on the broad and colourful characterisations of which Dickens was so fond. The intentionally diverse and eclectic casting that skewers the standard historical-drama 'posh white people' trope is very powerful; Dev Patel delivers yet another excellent performance in the title role, and there are many lovely character performances, from Daisy May Cooper's warm-hearted Peggoty to Nikki Amuka-Bird's haughty Mrs Steerforth to Hugh Laurie's perplexed Mr Dick and many more. Apart of a couple of sequences feeling a little stretched, this film provides a smart, lively and creative take on what can be a restrictive genre for film-makers.
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