The Fortunes and Misfortunes of Moll Flanders (1996) (TV)

Director:

David Attwood

Writers:

Andrew Davies (writer)
Daniel Defoe (novel)

Release Date:

13 October 1996 (USA)

Genre:

Drama

Tagline:

A legendary master of disguise.

Plot:

In her filthy cell in Newgate prison Moll Flanders,dubbed 'the wickedest woman in England' tells her story.Born in the gaol...

Plot Keywords:

Prostitution | Incest | Society | Adultery | Based On Novel

Awards:

1 win & 4 nominations

Cast

James Bowers	...	Gaoler
Alex Kingston	...	Moll Flanders
Nicola Kingston	...	Moll's Mother
Geoffrey Beevers	...	Judge
Lucy Evans	...	Little Moll
Anthony Bessick	...	Gypsy
Struan Rodger	...	Mr. Richardson
Chrissie Cotterill	...	Mrs. Fairley
Peter Jonfield	...	Parish Officer
Neville Phillips	...	Magistrate
Maureen O'Brien	...	Mrs. Richardson
Ian Driver	...	Robin
Caroline Harker	...	Maria
Dawn McDaniel	...	Emily
Ken McDonald	...	Mr. Baggot

Also Known As:

Moll Flanders (UK) (short title)

Runtime:

54 min (4 parts)

Country:

UK

Language:

English

Color:

Color

Sound Mix:

Dolby

Certification:

Australia:M | Finland:K-3 | UK:18 | USA:Unrated

Filming Locations:

Astley Hall, Chorley, Lancashire, England, UK

Company:

Granada Television

Goofs:

Anachronisms: When this mini-series first aired on British TV, in the final episode, Moll is led to what she believes is her death. The cart in which she travels passes behind a large blue van, clearly visible in the foreground.

Movie Connections:

Version of The Amorous Adventures of Moll Flanders (1965)

Fun and moving social commentary

You may find yourself watching this entire 4-hour movie all in one sitting like I did. Although it is a Mobil Masterpiece Theater presentation, it is also available on video. If you think you're in for some boring English drama, brace yourself, as it is very fast-paced, erotic, and often shockingly funny. Alex Kingston (now on "ER") delves into this role with a ferocity we rarely see on the screen. Although Moll does many bad things, we root for her the whole way. Diana Rigg is also a hoot as a mother-in-law that reveals herself to be something more. Daniel Defoe's condemnation of society as unforgiving of the monsters it creates is still as relevant today as when it was written. As long as you have an open mind about sex, nudity and immoral behavior onscreen, prepare to be fascinated.