The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling (1997– )

A new adaptation of the classic novel by Henry Fielding of the life, loves and adventures of the charming rascal Tom Jones. A foundling child born of a serving wench but allowed to grow up ... See full summary »

Stars:

John Sessions, Benjamin Whitrow, Ron Cook

4 wins & 4 nominations.

Cast

Series cast summary:
John Sessions	...	Henry Fielding (5 episodes, 1997)
Benjamin Whitrow	...	Squire Allworthy (5 episodes, 1997)
Ron Cook	...	Benjamin Partridge (5 episodes, 1997)
Christopher Fulford	...	Mr. Square (5 episodes, 1997)
Richard Ridings	...	Reverend Thwackum (5 episodes, 1997)
Brian Blessed	...	Squire Western (5 episodes, 1997)
Frances de la Tour	...	Aunt Western (5 episodes, 1997)
Max Beesley	...	Tom Jones (5 episodes, 1997)
James D'Arcy	...	Blifil (5 episodes, 1997)
Samantha Morton	...	Sophia Western (5 episodes, 1997)
Brian Pettifer	...	Parson Supple (5 episodes, 1997)
Kathy Burke	...	Honour (5 episodes, 1997)
Sylvester McCoy	...	Mr. Dowling (4 episodes, 1997)
Michelle Fairley	...	Mrs. Fitzpatrick (4 episodes, 1997)
Camille Coduri	...	Jenny Jones (3 episodes, 1997)
Celia Imrie	...	Mrs. Miller (3 episodes, 1997)
Matt Bardock	...	Jack Nightingale (3 episodes, 1997)
Kelly Reilly	...	Nancy Miller (3 episodes, 1997)
Lindsay Duncan	...	Lady Bellaston (3 episodes, 1997)
Peter Capaldi	...	Lord Fellamar (3 episodes, 1997)

Storyline

A new adaptation of the classic novel by Henry Fielding of the life, loves and adventures of the charming rascal Tom Jones. A foundling child born of a serving wench but allowed to grow up in the privileged surroundings of Squire Allworthy's household. This position allows him to grow up with, make the acquaintance of and eventually fall in love with the beautiful daughter of his wealthy neighbour, Sophia Western. However, the path to true love rarely runs smooth and family pressure, the difference in their parentage and 18th century social custom prevent the young lovers from being together. Eventually both are forced out of their gentile, protected surroundings and into the great wide world to see what adventures real life might bring...

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Plot Keywords:

love | 18th century | tv mini series | period piece | costume drama | 

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Genres:

Drama | Romance

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Details

Country:

UK

Language:

English

Release Date:

5 April 1998 (USA)

Also Known As:

História de Tom Jones Enjeitado

Filming Locations:

Belton House, Belton, Lincolnshire, England, UK

Company Credits

Production Co:

A&E Television Networks, British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Technical Specs

Runtime:

120 min 95 min (5 episodes) 120 min (3 episodes)

Sound Mix:

Stereo

Color:

Color

Did You Know?

Connections

Version of Tom Jones (1963)

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Soundtracks

"Phyllis, Talk No More of Passion"
By Henry Purcell
Vocals performed by Max Beesley

User Reviews

a rave

I loved this miniseries and went out and bought it. It's extremely true to Fielding's style and philosophy, and I've always been a big fan of Fielding. I think it's far superior to Tony Richardson's version, in which Albert Finney was just too old to play this part. I think Max Beesley achieves the mix of innocence, good-heartedness and sensuality that Tom must have. I also think Samantha Morton walks the line between showing Sophia's dutiful side and the explosive temper that she inherited from her father, Squire Western. It's a lot of fun.