Based on Charles Dickens' classic tale, this movie shows both the "best of times" and the "worst of times." (More of the worst, I think.)
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Mr. Nickleby dies and thereby leaves a wife and two children (Nicholas and Kate) to fend for themselves. They are glad to have some help from their uncle.
Nicholas, a handsome young man played by James D'Arcy, is sent off to work at a boys' school--one that offers little learning or kindness.
Meanwhile, Kate works for a seamstress. Kate's uncle invites her to dinner with his business associates--and they delight in toying with her and taking advantage of her.
At school, Nicholas teaches the boys and finds himself admired by silly Fanny Squeers (daughter of his employer). Nicholas also meets a crippled boy named Smike who is treated almost as a slave by Mr. and Mrs. Squeers.
One day, they go much too far by beating Smike for attempting to run away. Nicholas steps in, striking Mr. Squeers in the process. He and Smike escape. But not without punishment. Fanny writes a letter telling Nicholas's uncle of his deed, and a made-up story of stealing a ring.
Nicholas declares it is not true, and goes away to find other employment. He and Smike join a theatre, where Nicholas lands the role of Romeo right away.
Uncle Ralph's clerk sends a letter to Nicholas, telling of the dreadful way Kate is being used. Nicholas is very upset and leaves the theatre with Smike. Nicholas confronts the man who took advantage of Kate, and is not well received. Nicholas is (more than ever) in trouble with Uncle Ralph, since the business-man says he won't use Ralph's services anymore unless he can have Kate.
Kate has lost her job for the seamstress. Nicholas finds work as a clerk for the Cherrybles, who also give his family a fine country home.
Nicholas falls in love with a poor artist girl.
The review of this Movie prepared by Melissa M.
