Bleak House (2005)

About Bleak House

"Bleak House" is a critically acclaimed British television drama that was originally aired in 2005. It is based on the Charles Dickens' novel of the same name, which is famously known for its representation of the pervasive inefficiency of the British judiciary system.

The plot revolves around the interminable case of Jarndyce vs Jarndyce, a legal dispute over an inheritance. While the case drags on, those involved in it are consumed by the slow and inevitable decline brought on by the endless litigation.

Making / Production

This series was produced by BBC Wales and directed by Justin Chadwick and Susanna White. Adapting a novel of such complexity was no easy task, but the creators managed to successfully translate Dickens's lively cast of characters and his satirical commentary on the court system onto the screen.

Actors

• Gillian Anderson as Lady Dedlock, an aristocratic woman with a mysterious past. Anderson plays Dedlock with a subtle intensity.
• Charles Dance as Mr. Tulkinghorn, the unfeeling lawyer. Dance lends an intimidating presence to this role.
• Anna Maxwell Martin as Esther Summerson, our relatable heroine. Martin beautifully portrays the character's humility and resilience.
• Dennis Lawson as John Jarndyce, a generous man embroiled in the lawsuit. Lawson's performance gives the character a sympathetic depth.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This series was initially broadcasted in short, half-hour episodes in an attempt to mimic the original publication format of Charles Dickens's novel.
• Gillian Anderson was heavily pregnant during the shoot, but this was cleverly concealed by strategic costume designs and camera angles.

Awards

Bleak House won numerous major awards, including two BAFTAs - one for Best Drama Serial and one for Best Costume Design. Gillian Anderson also won a Broadcasting Press Guild Award for her outstanding performance as Lady Dedlock.

Quotes

• "If the law supposes that, the law is a ass - a idiot." - Mr. Bumble
• "I have a great deal of difficulty in beginning to write my portion of these pages, for I know I am not clever." - Esther Summerson
• "Dead, your Majesty. Dead, my lords and gentlemen. Dead, right reverends and wrong reverends of every order." - Court Clerk

Music, Soundtrack

• The haunting theme composed by Paul Englishby establishes the series' dark mood.
• "Prelude in C Minor" by Johann Sebastian Bach is featured prominently, accentuating key moments in the storyline.