Oliver Twist Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Oliver Twist.
Oliver Twist Ending Explained: When 9-year-old orphan Oliver Twist dares to ask his cruel taskmaster, Mr. Directed by Clive Donner, this 1982 crime film stars George C. Scott (Fagin), alongside Tim Curry as Bill Sikes, Richard Charles as Oliver Twist, Michael Hordern as Mr. Brownlow. With a 6.7/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Oliver Twist?
When 9-year-old orphan Oliver Twist dares to ask his cruel taskmaster, Mr. Bumble, for a second serving of gruel, he's hired out as an apprentice. Escaping that dismal fate, young Oliver falls in with the street urchin known as the Artful Dodger and his criminal mentor, Fagin. When kindly Mr. Brownlow takes Oliver in, Fagin's evil henchman Bill Sikes plots to kidnap the boy.
Clive Donner's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on George C. Scott (Fagin)'s journey. Bumble, for a second serving of gruel, he's hired out as an apprentice.
How Does George C. Scott (Fagin)'s Story End?
- George C. Scott: George C. Scott's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Tim Curry (Bill Sikes): Tim Curry's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Richard Charles (Oliver Twist): Richard Charles's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Oliver Twist Mean?
Oliver Twist's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving George C. Scott may feel rushed. Clive Donner's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.