Think you know all about the personal history of David Copperfield? I can assure you you don't.
Copperfield's story has been adapted countless times on the stage and screen, but this marriage of quirky Charles Dickens with Armando Iannucci's sass - the man behind The Thick of It and Veep - well that takes both the humour and the social commentary to a place I never wanted to leave.
This is a faithful adaptation of Copperfield's adventures from the poor house to the grand house and back again on his way to becoming a writer and finding love.
The story already has much to enchant and entertain. Thanks to the rollicking good script and the richness the diverse casting delivers, nothing feels been-there-done-that.
The incredibly nourishing disregard for convention and tradition result in a delightfully anarchic and refreshing Dickensian romp which is the perfectly timed excuse for a post-lockdown visit to the cinema.
I would completely understand if the chaotic helter-skelter feel might not be for everyone, especially those expecting a far more traditional tale.
But this Copperfield is just so much fun and has the capacity to win Dickens even more fans.
Four-and-a-half stars.
