UNEARTHING A REAL VICTORIAN WORKHOUSE! | WITH TONY ROBINSON

Cinemavixion Review

Sir Tony Robinson delves into the stark realities of Victorian London's workhouses in this compelling documentary. Inspired by Charles Dickens' immortal tale, 'Oliver Twist,' the film unearths the physical remnants of a forgotten underclass. Robinson, with his characteristic blend of archaeological insight and historical context, guides viewers through excavations that reveal the daily struggles, and ultimately the demise, of the workhouse inmates. The discovery of personal artifacts and, more chillingly, dissected skeletons intended for medical study, paints a grim picture of destitution and the era's approach to poverty and science. This is more than just a historical record; it's an exploration of social history, literary inspiration, and the enduring relevance of Dickens' critique of burgeoning urban inequality. Robinson's personal connection to the story, stemming from his childhood role in 'Oliver!,' adds a unique layer of poignancy to this fascinating archaeological and literary investigation.