Movies
Tom Jones
Rambunctious, thoroughly enjoyable version of Henry Fielding’s bawdy 18th-century novel, made utterly contemporary by John Osborne’s witty script, energetic performances from a wildly sexy cast, and director Tony Richardson’s astute use of jump cuts, fourth-wall breakdowns, and a breathtaking pace.
The picaresque story of a rapscallion Englishman (the gorgeous young Albert Finney) chasing after women, money, and his own identity, the film revolutionized British cinema and won four Academy Awards, for Osborne, Richardson, John Addison’s adorable score, and an entirely merited Best Picture. The famous eating scene remains as delightfully lewd as any ever shot.
Tom Jones also gave us the screen debuts of two soon-to-be-celebrated British actors: David Warner and Lynn Redgrave.
production details
USA / United Artists / 129 minutes / 1963
Producer and Director: Tony Richardson
Director of Photography: Walter Lassally
Editor: Antony Gibbs
Composer: John Addison
Script: John Osborne
Production Design: Ralph W. Brinton
cast
Albert Finney as Tom Jones
Susannah York as Sophie Western
David Tomlinson as Lord Fellamar
Peter Bull as Thwackum
Hugh Griffith as Squire Western
Edith Evans as Miss Western
Joan Greenwood as Lady Bellaston
Diane Cilento as Molly Seagrim
Freda Jackson as Mrs. Seagrim
Jack MacGowran as Partridge
Lynn Redgrave as Susan, Uptown Inn
Joyce Redman as Mrs. Waters
David Warner as Mr. Blifil
Micheál MacLiammóir as Narrator (voice)
Rachel Kempson as Bridget
Avis Bunnage as Landlady
George Devine as Squire Allworthy
Angela Baddeley as Mrs. Wilkins