Original air date: 2007 on ITV
Starring Derek Jacboi (Grandfather), Toby Jones (Daniel Quilp), Sophie Vavasseur (Nell Trent), Gina McKee (Sally Brass), Adam Godley (Samson Brass), Anna Madeley (Betsy Quilp), Adrian Rawlins (Jacob), Geoff Breton (Dick Swiveller), Bryan Dick (Freddie Trent), Zoë Wanamaker (Mrs. Jarley), George MacKay (Kit), Josie Lawrence (Mrs. Jiniwin), Bradley Walsh (Mr. Liggers), Charlene McKenna (The Marchioness), Jonathan Coy (Rev. Pratchett), Kelly Campbell (Mrs. Nubbles), Michael Webber (Innkeeper), Elizabeth Bennett (Mrs. George), Gerry O'Brien (Constable)
Adapted by Martyn Hesford
Directed by Brian Percival
Grandfather (Derek Jacobi, I, Claudius) adores young and innocent Nell (Sophie Vavasseur, Northanger Abbey), and is determined to provide her with a secure future — but at what cost? As Grandfather routinely dispatches her from the Old Curiosity Shop to secure funds, he meanwhile is gambling away the money under the cover of night. Desperation forces Grandfather into a reckless deal with the menacing moneylender Quilp (Toby Jones, Frost/Nixon). When their money and luck run out, Nell summons her courage and encourages Grandfather that they should both flee too. Pursued by a variety of shadowy characters including a quiet man with mysterious intentions, Nell and Grandfather are forced to beg in order to survive. Will they be rescued before Grandfather's gambling habit ruins them or Quilp catches up? Gina McKee (The Forsyte Saga) also stars in one of Charles Dickens's most heartrending tales.
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