Greatest screen villains: BILL SIKES in OLIVER! (1968)

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  • Опубліковано 8 жов 2024
  • Oliver Reed's superb performance as Bill Sikes is now over 50 yrs old, but the character remains one of the greatest screen villains of all time. Written, edited & narrated by Rob Ager.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 762

  • @collativelearning
    @collativelearning  Рік тому +44

    A couple of minor errors in the narration (wrote and narrated this video rapidly between other projects). I accidentally called Charles Dickens ... Charles Dickenson and called the dog Bulldog instead of Bullseye. But those name errors have no effect on the subject at hand - analysis of Reed's version of Bill Sykes himself - so no need to moan about those two verbal slipups as i'm already aware of them. If you have disagreements about the breakdown of Sykes I'm glad to hear them. Cheers folks.

    • @Franco1395
      @Franco1395 Рік тому +1

      First time I watched this video, about 3 years ago, I heard you say Bulldog and that made me question my own knowledge. I think I queued up the movie and I was pretty sure, but still not certain because I’m American and languages that it was Bullseye. Not a criticism, it’s just I noticed it back then. Good job mate! I’ve been on an Oliver Reed kick lately so this video got put back in my feed. I loved this movie especially because of the Bill Sykes character. Good job mate, love your videos.

    • @andrewweeks448
      @andrewweeks448 Рік тому +1

      @@Franco1395 thought it was another mandella effect nightmare. huge sigh of relief

    • @connor3158
      @connor3158 Рік тому +1

      Lol I was literally about to come at you with "it's fuckin bullseye!!" So I'm glad I caught this beforehand haha

    • @normabennett27
      @normabennett27 11 місяців тому

      Thank goodness you sorted that out! I was about to write a tirade! (Not really)

    • @mattthetrucker85
      @mattthetrucker85 10 місяців тому +1

      Good video. Always liked olly reed. But you mention about the scar on his face. He was attacked in a night club in the early 60s by 2 blokes that he got in to a heated chat with at the bar. He want to the toilet and the 2 blokes were in there with broken bottles. His words to them were "come to help me have a pee have you!" The rest is history. He did however nearly lose his acting career due to the scars on his face.

  • @collativelearning
    @collativelearning  5 років тому +272

    An error in the narration. I call his pet "Bulldog" for some reason in the first half of the vid then remembered later he's called "Bullseye".

    • @MacStoker
      @MacStoker 5 років тому +29

      phew, i thought the mandela effect was real for a minute there.

    • @jayf6360
      @jayf6360 5 років тому +14

      @@MacStoker I was about to call the cops man.

    • @eleccy
      @eleccy 5 років тому +5

      You also signed your name Riob at the start mate. Just a heads up.

    • @111Phoenix777
      @111Phoenix777 5 років тому +3

      I didn't even notice till you mentioned it.

    • @collativelearning
      @collativelearning  5 років тому +15

      @@eleccy Riob is my cousin. He fills in for me sometimes ;)

  • @mozart7820
    @mozart7820 5 років тому +211

    He scared the shit out of me as a kid. Brilliant villain.

    • @infinitesimotel
      @infinitesimotel 5 років тому +21

      The part where he clobbered Nancy was really disturbing. I bugged me and gave the movie the cherry on top for pushing it that one bit over the line. It was worse because you didn't see it.

    • @KlidesCorneroftheInternet
      @KlidesCorneroftheInternet 4 роки тому +10

      Gave me nightmares

    • @catherinehazur7336
      @catherinehazur7336 3 роки тому

      @@infinitesimotel yeah, he wound up murdering Nancy.

    • @KutWrite
      @KutWrite 3 роки тому +1

      @@infinitesimotel: It was that way in the Newton version. The dog was shivering with fright, too. I'll have to check out this version.

    • @haintedhouse2990
      @haintedhouse2990 3 роки тому +8

      I didn't know the story of Oliver Twist when I was a kid but when he chases Nancy through the streets right before he kills her I knew she didn't stand a chance. what a great performance.

  • @ManCave1972
    @ManCave1972 3 роки тому +90

    When I first saw this film as a kid, Sykes was utterly terrifying. Brutal, heavy, dark and you felt like he meant it. Perhaps it was because Olly Reed was a drinker, and his erratic menace was real, maybe it’s because he is a great actor. Probably a combo of the two. Either way, it doesn’t matter, the performance is ferocious, indelible and standard setting. That is enough. God bless Olly Reed and thank God for films as epic as this.

    • @oxfordpictionary
      @oxfordpictionary 2 роки тому +4

      Man, yeah, I feel you on this. I saw this film several times as a child, but I saw a lot of films several times as a child, and Sykes is definitely the number one villain I recall. Made such a deep impression on me. I think it’s his eyes… the way they stare. Haunting!

    • @sas6384
      @sas6384 Рік тому +3

      Usually the greatest performances are actors expressing an aspect of themselves to the fullest. Pain can be a great source of inspiration.

  • @Itsliz1984
    @Itsliz1984 3 роки тому +39

    It was his eyes that made him so terrifying. His eyes were so intense. No one else could play this part. R.I.P to one of the greats

  • @dewittbourchier7169
    @dewittbourchier7169 4 роки тому +110

    Addendum: The Actress who played Nancy, Shani Wallis, recalled in the scene where Bill Syskes strikes Nancy in the "yes she will Fagin" "no she won't Fagin" scene, Reed did not actually hit her, but his motion was so powerful it was like he had or was about to and so she fell and actually badly banged herself. She said that he was able to get that sort of reaction out of her like that, in one shot, was a testimony to what a fantastic actor Oliver Reed was.

    • @rafflesxyz4800
      @rafflesxyz4800 2 роки тому +1

      Oh he didn't actually hit her. Well I never.....

    • @mkaplan1383
      @mkaplan1383 Рік тому +2

      I watched that scene a hundred times. As someone who has brief experience in stage performance what Oliver Reed did was a classic knap. The camera is only going to permit what we're allowed to see. The angle is what creates the illusion he made contact with Nancy at least to the naked eye. But an experience ld eye is looking for flaws and you can he never touch her and she on queue act like she received the strike. In boxing, they identify a fixed fight if a "phantom punch" was observed.

  • @danielallen3454
    @danielallen3454 5 років тому +84

    YES!!! Bill Sikes as played by Oliver Reed is a damn MONSTER! This performance should serve as the Platonic Ideal of intimidation!

    • @brendaamata4577
      @brendaamata4577 3 роки тому +2

      Absolutly

    • @dalehoward3704
      @dalehoward3704 2 роки тому +4

      Yeah ......he didn't need to sing!!! In the stage musical version Bill had a song(you can hear the music as he immerged from the shadow).

  • @rociomiranda5684
    @rociomiranda5684 Рік тому +20

    Yes, Oliver Reed is the best onscreen Bill Sykes, the most terrifying, and yet attractive enough to make us understand Nancy's tragic love.

  • @fionamontgomery4576
    @fionamontgomery4576 Рік тому +12

    Oliver Reed was a stunning man , just beautiful.

  • @Kainlarsen
    @Kainlarsen 5 років тому +54

    Even as a kid, I could tell that Reed's portrayal of Bill was special. He was this hulking, menacing shadow throughout the film.

    • @Thespeedrap
      @Thespeedrap 2 роки тому +4

      He was considered to play Alex in A Clockwork Orange and though McDowell nailed it would had been interesting seeing Reed's portrayal of the character.

  • @benm4290
    @benm4290 5 років тому +157

    This is the best on-screen rendition of Oliver Twist, in my opinion.

    • @ellroylynchbowie678
      @ellroylynchbowie678 5 років тому +8

      Absolutely. 2005 version is visually stunning but overall is my least favourite Polanski movie.

    • @colliric
      @colliric 4 роки тому +9

      The 1948 adaptation by David Lean is also great. But it had the major flaw of a "Jewfaced" Fagin(played by Sir Alex Guinness).

    • @questionitall3053
      @questionitall3053 4 роки тому +6

      Oh Yeh, without question, you are spot on.

    • @malbourne805
      @malbourne805 3 роки тому +5

      Agreed!!

    • @haintedhouse2990
      @haintedhouse2990 3 роки тому +5

      absolutely. so well done.

  • @lisaa.461
    @lisaa.461 3 роки тому +31

    Oliver Reed is one of my favorite actors. He had a great ability to bring so much emotion to his roles. Adore him. RIP

  • @4iviv312
    @4iviv312 3 роки тому +60

    One thing he didn’t notice that makes him look big is that even though his coat is huge they made the sleeves to short which subtly makes him look huge.

    • @RIFLQ
      @RIFLQ 3 роки тому +2

      First reply!

    • @sorryifoldcomment8596
      @sorryifoldcomment8596 2 роки тому

      It's genius! Didn't even realize that it was on purpose.

  • @MikeGgeetar
    @MikeGgeetar 5 років тому +106

    This film scared the bejesus out of me when I was a kid.

    • @PunkyMuskRat
      @PunkyMuskRat 4 роки тому +4

      Fagin scared me when I first saw this

    • @haintedhouse2990
      @haintedhouse2990 3 роки тому

      agreed. I was traumatized for weeks over Nancy's murder.

  • @lauriem5751
    @lauriem5751 2 роки тому +40

    The dog's name is Bullseye. I've seen the movie and read the book many times. Oliver Reed and Tim Curry are in a photo finish for the best portrayal.

    • @sibellakingston52
      @sibellakingston52 Рік тому +9

      I love Tim Curry - but Oliver Reeds slays the character.

    • @Yellowguy0619
      @Yellowguy0619 10 місяців тому +1

      I also liked Robert Loggia's performance too.

  • @sharpgage6512
    @sharpgage6512 3 роки тому +14

    cant beat the silent menace, not laffing when others laff, not smiling then others smile, not saying hello when others say hello, not shaking a hand when prompted. just a cold silent death stair. all these things are highly unnerving. its like meeting a wild animal. i remember seeing in interviews decades after the child actors all saying thay were genuinly scared of him lol

  • @jizzyjones7672
    @jizzyjones7672 4 роки тому +6

    Watched this every christmas as a kid. Brilliant film

  • @SirSmoldham
    @SirSmoldham 5 років тому +43

    LOVE THIS! Oliver Reed was TERRIFYING!

  • @samfilmkid
    @samfilmkid 5 років тому +28

    "They squawks Fagin..They Squawks!"
    Never forgot that from the moment I saw it when I was eight.

  • @Sdea1903
    @Sdea1903 3 роки тому +62

    Nobody has done vicious, brooding masculinity on the screen like Oliver Reed. He had a real nasty vibe about him. Wonderful actor.

    • @patriciabyrne7391
      @patriciabyrne7391 2 роки тому +7

      He was indeed a lovely generous chap, lived in Guernsey, Bah I’m a bean, but forgive him, great actor,personality, gent and liked a bevvy… 🌹#RIP Oliver Reed , sadly missed

    • @patriciabyrne7391
      @patriciabyrne7391 2 роки тому +6

      For me he was like #Brando and Dean he was centre stage and could have been a mega star😖😔😔 sad loss 🌹

    • @firenze5555
      @firenze5555 2 роки тому

      @@seanfitzgerald8575 So did Steve McQueen. In fact, in "Bullitt", McQueen requested that the other actors had more lines and he just acted with his look/eyes.

  • @stevewhite8059
    @stevewhite8059 4 роки тому +15

    This used to be shown on prime time tv in the UK every Christmas when we had just 3 channels to choose from, so it naturally was essential viewing for people of my generation. I watch it every Christmas time now too on dvd, previously on vhs, and always enjoy it for the great film that it is as well as for nostalgic/sentimental reasons.
    It's a real shame the younger generations seem to refuse to appreciate classic cinema and will only watch films that are based on old tv series, remakes of remakes, films based on video games(?), special effects extravaganzas.
    And yes, Ollie Reed was brilliant in this film and I stand by my opinion that, much as I admire Alec Guinness' portrayal of Fagin in 'Oliver Twist' (1948), Ron Moody is the the best screen Fagin that I've ever seen.
    Anyone who hasn't seen this, go and buy a copy, snuggle down in your sofa and enjoy a great, entertaining film. Then read the book by Charles Dickens.

    • @kevochallen283
      @kevochallen283 11 місяців тому

      I agree with all that you said. I'm still waiting for Oliver to return to the big screen again so that it can be seen in all it's glory.

  • @park24bird
    @park24bird 4 роки тому +20

    Bill terrified me as a child the same way the character Chigurh (No Country for Old Men) terrified me as an adult. Both had no feelings. Cold like the terminator.

    • @AdamSmith75th
      @AdamSmith75th 3 роки тому +5

      Wow, imagine if Oliver played Chigurh, or a character like him? How interesting would that have been!

    • @adamcraig1468
      @adamcraig1468 4 місяці тому

      Yea but I also thought he was cool 😂

  • @starwarsroo2448
    @starwarsroo2448 5 років тому +27

    The thing with the dog representing Bill with the scars, spot on

  • @letmetellyousomething123
    @letmetellyousomething123 3 роки тому +12

    Saw this movie when it came out first. Still have memories of it 52 years later. Looking at it here I can't believe how visually beautiful it is. It's a true classic.

  • @clearlyalec
    @clearlyalec 5 років тому +63

    "You're damed right!" Exactly. Raised on this. Terrifying villain.

  • @ShakepearesDaughter
    @ShakepearesDaughter 3 роки тому +13

    I saw this first run in a local movie theater back in 1968. Bill Sikes scared the hell out of me. I wasn't easily impressed as a child, more like bored usually, but his screen impression stayed with me for years and became a classic thing in my mind. I have since re-seen the movie as an adult, and he is just as amazing each time. The part of Nancy is beautifully played, too---the intertwining of the two characters and their brutal romance is utterly scarring and tragic as it builds. I remember loving her character as a little girl, and feeling her loss very keenly when he killed that brave woman and you saw her booted feet on the ground afterward, splayed out and motionless.

  • @thedesertofthereel.1321
    @thedesertofthereel.1321 2 роки тому +5

    I love this, I must have watched it like 20 times, I Love Oliver, one of my faves. Bill is great also, Oliver Reed was such a character.

  • @pokEmaniac41
    @pokEmaniac41 5 років тому +14

    Saw this movie in grade/elementary school. It's always stuck with me.

  • @Ben-tp2fr
    @Ben-tp2fr Рік тому +6

    This film is well known amongst everyone. It's not forgotten.

  • @ninfilms
    @ninfilms 4 роки тому +64

    Oliver Reed was a great actor. Even in films like The System, The Devils, The Brood and Gladiator. The Devils, Reed was cheated out of an Oscar and a Bafta.

    • @curiousworld7912
      @curiousworld7912 4 роки тому +2

      'The Devils' totally freaked me out when I saw it in theater. Good God... Ken Russell was a genius film director, but this one gave me nightmares.

    • @gorgeousgambler
      @gorgeousgambler 3 роки тому +3

      Watch The Damned. He's epic.

    • @ninfilms
      @ninfilms 3 роки тому +2

      @@gorgeousgambler I have to go and find that. Even Nicolas Roeg's Castaway he is great. Its a shame that the chat shows exploit like Aspel and co. Damaged his repetition.

    • @tomsheppard378
      @tomsheppard378 3 роки тому +1

      Or even The Brood, such a bad film but a great performance from Reed

    • @ninfilms
      @ninfilms 3 роки тому +3

      @@tomsheppard378 The Brood is an intelligent horror film with great performance from Oliver Reed.

  • @dewittbourchier7169
    @dewittbourchier7169 4 роки тому +15

    I always loved this movie and Sykes was truly terrifying. He always made me scared when I was on screen and he grounds the movie in the social commentary of Dickens - namely that the Criminals are hard, violent, desperate, nasty but also come from abused, deprived backgrounds. Unlike in the book, Fagin is something of a hero as he may be a fence but he actually cares for his boys and seems to value stolen goods from the wealthy not just for their money value but for their looks. Sykes however tells you what would really go on. He's also scary as he's an abusive parent and he's like a lot of people in the real world, and helps warn kids watching what to look out for and to avoid. Oliver Reed was a vastly underappreciated actor. He always brought presence and skill to any role he played.

    • @ihatefagin
      @ihatefagin 2 місяці тому

      Fagin is not a hero what are you talking about

  • @chuckabutty888
    @chuckabutty888 2 роки тому +10

    Sykes dog was called Bullseye and his real name was Butch and was the pet of Cindy Sharville who runs Animals Galore, a company that trains and supplies animals for films, television, theatre and advertising. I've never seen a bad performance from Oliver Reed and this was one of his best, perfect for the part. The way he rough handles Mark Lester always amazes me, he didn't hold back, am sure Mark must have had some bruises after filming.

  • @LacieCrazy
    @LacieCrazy 3 роки тому +10

    Absolutely magical movie. God bless my mother for sitting me down and making me watch this movie as a child. I still watch it to this day (I'm now 47), and it's in my top 10 favourite movies. The acting is excellent. The songs are excellent. I can't say enough good things about this film. I also have a few other film versions of Oliver Twist, as well as a TV series.

    • @haintedhouse2990
      @haintedhouse2990 2 роки тому +1

      not just one of the best musicals but one of the best films - it's compelling story also holds intrigue and suspense - especially for a musical.

    • @jaajaarogers9101
      @jaajaarogers9101 Рік тому +2

      I’m exactly the same watch Oliver Twist every Christmas 🎄 my favourite movie dodger fagien Nancy sikes are best actors that carried the all decade best made movie ever 🏆💫💕🎄

  • @chloeforde9714
    @chloeforde9714 3 роки тому +18

    Amazing film, amazing actor. The death scene with Nancy still haunts me today.

  • @NegotiableHemingway
    @NegotiableHemingway 5 років тому +17

    He legit scarred me when I used to watch this when I was younger.

  • @drake5111
    @drake5111 5 років тому +8

    I remember seeing this as a four year old and never forgot the whole production; and I will never forget Oliver Reed.

  • @LaurenLillianHaggerty
    @LaurenLillianHaggerty 5 років тому +11

    I am SO FREAKING HAPPY that you made this. I'm 25 in November and I still have this in my movie collection. I have always loved this film and even played Oliver in my own drama troop when I was younger. This was the first version of Oliver Twist I seen and his character absolutely horrified me. I think it's an absolute masterpiece. Your breakdown is great. Love the way you put my feelings whilst watching these films into word. Thank you. 😁

  • @MizRouge
    @MizRouge 4 роки тому +19

    One of the best character introductions of all time. Both Sikes and Nancy.

    • @haintedhouse2990
      @haintedhouse2990 2 роки тому +2

      agreed. Sykes strolls in with the shadow and Nancy stands in the background observing.
      great shot and such a well made film.

    • @jaajaarogers9101
      @jaajaarogers9101 Рік тому

      Very true both top level actors 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼💫

    • @jaajaarogers9101
      @jaajaarogers9101 Рік тому +1

      @@haintedhouse2990 I totally agree 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼🏆🌹

  • @questionitall3053
    @questionitall3053 4 роки тому +14

    Fantastic vid. Oliver Reed was AMAZING in this. He used his eyes better than any other actor. Did you know? A young Jim Davidson nearly got a main part in this.

  • @thedesertofthereel.1321
    @thedesertofthereel.1321 2 роки тому +8

    So well said, this film is a masterpiece and can hold its weight with any film and shouldn't be just pigeon holed as a musical.

    • @haintedhouse2990
      @haintedhouse2990 2 роки тому

      agreed. it's presented as a compelling story as well with a suspenseful climax that was brilliantly done by director Carol Reed. bravo!

  • @theproplady
    @theproplady 5 років тому +17

    This movie reminds me a little bit of the 1971 musical version of "A Christmas Carol". The sets in that are amazing - London really feels like a place you could visit there.

    • @andrewglazebrook1585
      @andrewglazebrook1585 5 років тому +5

      Do you mean Scrooge (1970) ? Because that used the same sets from Oliver! (1968) And both flms were photographed by Oscar winning Cinematographer Oswald Morris B.S.C.

    • @destinytroll1374
      @destinytroll1374 3 роки тому +3

      From what a gather, a lot of the same crew were used in both films. Honestly some of the best made musicals I've seen!

  • @kevochallen283
    @kevochallen283 11 місяців тому +1

    This is one of the greatest screen character analysis that I ever listened to . I will now appreciate the Bill Sykes character nuances as played by Oliver Reed. Thank you for the expert character review. I will be back for more.

  • @AwakeAtTheWheel
    @AwakeAtTheWheel 4 роки тому +4

    I had forgotten how excellent this movie is. Now I can’t wait to watch it again! Thanks Rob!

  • @Realpoweronearth
    @Realpoweronearth 2 роки тому +2

    Great film great songs great characters I never get bored watching this film!!!

    • @jaajaarogers9101
      @jaajaarogers9101 Рік тому

      Me too 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼🏆

  • @rosie8126
    @rosie8126 3 роки тому +10

    Oliver was a handsome devil of a man.

  • @malbourne805
    @malbourne805 3 роки тому +11

    Oliver Reed was an actor's actor. The very first time I saw this as a kid in the 70's, Oliver Reed's appearance made me think two things nearly simultaneously: this guy's a right monster, thank goodness he's just a fictional character. I used to wonder if such a man existed in real life, what a horror he might be.

    • @ChillGamerBlue
      @ChillGamerBlue 2 роки тому +4

      Men much like Sikes existed then and they certainly do exist today. Hopefully you never meet one.

  • @vibesmom
    @vibesmom 2 роки тому +3

    I LOVE this movie, I have a painted picture of Dodger directly from this movie. We saw it in a little shop when I was young and there was no question my mom was buying it. It’s awesome to see a review. I haven’t seen it in years and I remember all of it. Thanks!

  • @Dobiegal
    @Dobiegal 5 років тому +6

    You nailed it with this video. A lot of details I knew but never noticed in context. This movie came out when I was 10. I was so enthralled I saw it over and over and my poor brother had to go with me. We still joke about it.

  • @riannamajzoub5241
    @riannamajzoub5241 5 років тому +7

    I am 27 and my mom actually chose this movie for family movie night and I loved it!! I even have inspirations for my own graphic novel works.

  • @Birdy890
    @Birdy890 5 років тому +14

    Oliver and Blues Brothers are the only Musicals I can tolerate, in fact I love both of them.

    • @bqgin
      @bqgin 5 років тому +2

      have you seen "The King and I"? I'm not into romance but I watched this movie and was stunned by how beautiful the set, costumes and cinematography were.

    • @Birdy890
      @Birdy890 5 років тому +2

      @@bqgin I might have to watch that. I tend to enjoy movies from the 50s-70s moreso than anything afterwards because they weren't as politically charged or tried to force some ham-handed message down the audience's throat, though maybe It's just because I tend to agree with 50s sentiments more?

    • @colonyofrats4193
      @colonyofrats4193 4 роки тому +1

      BirdyLegs what sexism and racism

    • @moviemaniac9034
      @moviemaniac9034 4 роки тому

      What about films like "Mary Poppins" or "Bedknobs and Broomsticks"?

    • @jaybee9269
      @jaybee9269 6 місяців тому

      “Fiddler on the Roof”?

  • @TheSuperQuail
    @TheSuperQuail 5 років тому +12

    Haven't seen this film in over 20 years. I'm definitely going to re watch.

  • @brandywine5152
    @brandywine5152 2 роки тому +3

    I saw this movie on HBO back in the 80's and it's still my favorite today. I also have the soundtrack and still sing along to the songs today. ❤️ Losing Oliver Reed was our great loss. I never feared him in this role because of Shani's love for him. I felt sad for him. I feared the Work House. Those poor boys.

  • @ChrisManley1994
    @ChrisManley1994 5 років тому +11

    I think Bill does smile (though very quickly) when he walks past Nancy at the bar.

  • @ashleyhyatt6319
    @ashleyhyatt6319 3 роки тому +2

    Thank you! Always loved this film and Mr. Reed.

  • @ussr95
    @ussr95 4 роки тому +5

    Rob, thanks for turning me on to Oliver Reed! What a phenomenal actor and man

  • @ravenhill-the-hospitaller-1968
    @ravenhill-the-hospitaller-1968 2 роки тому +7

    oliver reed was a great legend and perfected the role of sikes.

  • @steveoshow4832
    @steveoshow4832 2 роки тому +9

    Great overview.
    Oliver Reed stole every scene in this movie. Imagine the pitch for this to the studio- Its about child exploitation, a brutal psychopath oh and it’s a musical…
    Oliver delivered the sense of menace and brooding dangerous intensity that literally darkened the screen.
    IMO he would have made a brilliant James Bond taking that sense of menace and making the character much more real.

    • @collativelearning
      @collativelearning  Рік тому +5

      Reed as Bond ... wish that would have happened, even if for just one instalment in the series.

  • @Malegys
    @Malegys 5 років тому +18

    Ever noticed the Un-synchronization of Bill & his shadow when he emerges in the tunnel?

    • @Almost_Forgotten_Films
      @Almost_Forgotten_Films 5 років тому +2

      Yes!

    • @TheChugg11
      @TheChugg11 3 роки тому +1

      When he first appeared I was reminded of Nosferatu... and yes, noticed the odd shadow sync

    • @haintedhouse2990
      @haintedhouse2990 3 роки тому +4

      it was still a great introduction - Nancy too with her out of focus image in the background - great film making.

  • @mondogmonger1151
    @mondogmonger1151 4 роки тому +5

    Only watched it last month and Reed left a lasting impression as Bill Sykes. Be it from terror or admiration, this is a Bill Sykes whom commands respect.

  • @hauptberg
    @hauptberg 5 років тому +3

    I had seen this when I was younger, but never analysed it before! You made me see a different side to him I hadn't thought about, I will definitely watch it again with a different lens

  • @MrIGHOSH1
    @MrIGHOSH1 5 років тому +14

    Having seen many versions of Oliver Twist, I would say that Oliver Reed by far gave the best performance as Bill Sikes!

    • @kevochallen283
      @kevochallen283 11 місяців тому +1

      Yes Oliver Reed's is the best. The second place would go to the Sykes of the 1948 Oliver Twist. The actors name escapes me. But I think he was the one who played Long John Silver?

  • @PipkinXIV
    @PipkinXIV 5 років тому +4

    You did a great job explaining the aspects of control Bill needs to feel safe in his environment, and how that precarious tension is maintained by the character. His contradictions, refusing to reveal his actual feelings but then chiding his GF for thinking he doesn't love her are both sweet and deeply abusive. Sad story.

  • @extraplain2412
    @extraplain2412 5 років тому +13

    This guy was my introduction into how evil people can be.
    Also how can people have not seen this film? I was born in 92 and watched it as a kid but I also read the book and watched this version of Oliver in English class, along with Educating Rita, Great Expectations etc. What are they showing kids these days if not classics like this?

  • @AriaMohtadiHaghighi
    @AriaMohtadiHaghighi 2 роки тому +6

    Oliver Reed is fantastic both here and in Lion of the Desert (as well as being a genuine badass in interviews). Thanks for making this review.

  • @IndianaRose.
    @IndianaRose. 5 років тому +6

    Yes , you nailed it..and yet he was an attractive character. How complex

  • @powpunkonwhiskey6377
    @powpunkonwhiskey6377 5 років тому +6

    Oliver Reed was a very scary looking man, all rough, big and ready but with a touch of an unhinged kinda vibe. Bill was just a tyrant with no reemdemable qualities so Oliver carries it off beautifully.

  • @tomjones2348
    @tomjones2348 5 років тому +8

    I'd heard about this film for many years, but was put off by it being a musical. You've convinced me to watch it.

  • @louisewestie989
    @louisewestie989 Рік тому +3

    In the film version, Bill Sykes does NOT sing, instead his entrance and main theme is called “My Name.” in every scene he’s in.
    In the West End version, Bill Sykes had one main song called “My Name.” with Bill menacingly terrorising everyone about who he is and what he will do/did to anyone who crosses his path.
    Looking back at this after watching the London stage Production, Bill's music is called "My Name." when he is around.
    Because in the stage production, he arrives at the start at the start of Act 2 and if you type that into UA-cam, listen to the song and then watch this clip, you can sing Bill's tune.

  • @capriceblau
    @capriceblau 3 роки тому +2

    Thank you so much for making that video. Only because I have seen it, I watched the movie. It was awesome. Oliver Reed was awesome as Sykes.

  • @paulnewell7722
    @paulnewell7722 10 місяців тому +2

    A truly excellent video. Thoughtful and well-researched. Oliver Reed ranks as one of the scariest movie villains of any portrayed on film. I would only rank him a hair below Javier Bardem's take as Anton Chigurh in "No Country For Old Men." Absolutely masterful turn by Reed. Thank you so very much for this beautifully-produced nod to this performance and the musical in whole.

  • @patriciabyrne7391
    @patriciabyrne7391 2 роки тому +2

    My first film star crush 👀 brilliant film in my top 5 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

  • @JayStein777
    @JayStein777 5 років тому +9

    So I just watched this on Blu-Ray after seeing your analysis. I first saw this movie in 1981 in 5th grade , the school I was attending showed it around Christmas over the span of 3 days on a 35 mm print. Over those 3 days I fell in love with Nancy and when Sikes murdered her, I was absolutely devastated. I still feel the same way today as I approach my 50's. Oliver! is an amazing and frightening film. I saw Popeye around the same time and while not as intense I still think it's one of the best musicals along with My Fair Lady. Gosh I'm rambling but that's what happens when you get drunk and watch musicals I guess. Well thank you for all of your great videos Rob. :)

    • @emanuelardeleanu8748
      @emanuelardeleanu8748 5 років тому +4

      I first watch this gem of a film at age 7, and I cried myself to sleep over Nancy for 4 months!! And that hole, that smoldering crater, in my heart still hasn't healed...
      It is because of Nancy's unconscionable murder that I am now writing a re-write of "Oliver Twist" - a modernization in which the main characters are all high-school-age computer hackers who pick much, MUCH deeper pockets with their iPhones and tablets and laptops.
      And my 16-year-old Nancy Anne Wallis LIVES and finds true love at story's end!
      I don't rest until THIS re-write of THIS tragedy is accepted, published, and shared with the world!! ❤️

  • @jemimajust827
    @jemimajust827 4 роки тому +6

    How interesting, I would have never guessed Reed was only 5 11. He scared the crap out of me as a young kid.

  • @hagengilbert8102
    @hagengilbert8102 5 років тому +3

    Great video as always, thanks for turning me on to this great Character I was unaware of. What amazing costumes and sets in this film as well! True attention to detail.

  • @pommie5093
    @pommie5093 5 років тому +3

    Although I knew about this film and story I have never seen the movie. But, in just the few scenes and shots that you have included in your video, I was captivated by Oliver Reed's performance. Thank you for another awesome video, well done!

  • @MrHEC381991
    @MrHEC381991 5 років тому +7

    Agreed, great villain and brilliantly portrayed.
    Andy Serkis and Tom Hardy were alright but no one could pull a sinister stare like Oliver Reed.

  • @barryjacobs8524
    @barryjacobs8524 5 місяців тому +3

    Great film. Shani Wallis is in her 90s now, about the only one left. Oliver Reed what can I say. He had a posh voice you know. I am reading a brilliant book about him by Robert Sellers authorised version call What Fresh Lunacy Is This? from Amazon. It’s great. Buy it you won’t be disappointed. Love your video about Oliver. A fascinating human being. ❤

  • @systemvoid
    @systemvoid 5 років тому +43

    I wonder if Javier Bardem studied this performance at all before his role in No Country For Old Men?

    • @starwarsroo2448
      @starwarsroo2448 5 років тому +3

      I dunno cuz that is one weird villain , in look and character

    • @starwarsroo2448
      @starwarsroo2448 5 років тому +2

      @Black Pill similar hormonal profiles and phenotype, come out if your own arse man

    • @footofjuniper8212
      @footofjuniper8212 5 років тому +4

      I would have loved to hear him say the line, "Hand it over, you avaricious...old...skeleton."

    • @davidlean1060
      @davidlean1060 5 років тому +3

      lol...they are similar now you mention it!

    • @ellemjay
      @ellemjay 4 роки тому +1

      I just looked at some clips from that movie again and it seems plausible to me.

  • @OuterGalaxyLounge
    @OuterGalaxyLounge 5 років тому +20

    Oliver Reeds performance in The Devils is as good as it gets.

  • @bqgin
    @bqgin 5 років тому +8

    12:30 this shows how moving a story to another medium can add even more depth to certain parts. And not just book->film but book->musical. Musicals should be treated as their own mediums, just like animated movies

  • @Cameliabunnymoon
    @Cameliabunnymoon 3 роки тому +3

    I love Oliver reed as an actor and it is so sad he died but he terrified me so much as sikes remains the scariest character ever

  • @honestcommenterseany441
    @honestcommenterseany441 3 роки тому +4

    I grew up watching this every Xmas. With wizard of oz aswell lol it is an amazing film considering I was so young and it was a musical and managed to keep me entertained amongst all my Xmas presents 🎁 to play with instead. “Action man. N shaker maker “. It still is a classic

  • @sparticussparky4926
    @sparticussparky4926 5 років тому +3

    Great work Rob. So original and as always a thorough and well thought out analysis.
    Thanks again mate

  • @Thespeedrap
    @Thespeedrap 3 роки тому +5

    I saw this last night on TCM and this character was the darkest I seen in any classic film.

    • @ShakepearesDaughter
      @ShakepearesDaughter 3 роки тому +2

      I first saw it in 1968, and I have never seen a darker character in anything else myself! Oliver Reed was a force of nature.

  • @WertyQ543
    @WertyQ543 Рік тому +2

    Oliver Reed Is a God of Acting and drinking He’s interviews when he is totally under the influence ....Classic

  • @Andrew-el8xi
    @Andrew-el8xi 2 роки тому +2

    Fantastic film incredible set brilliant cast and Olly nailed it ...

  • @danwoodvine5900
    @danwoodvine5900 3 роки тому +3

    Apparently they cut out the song (My Name) Bill Sykes sings in the film but you can still hear the tune in the background and it is in the stage show.

  • @KlidesCorneroftheInternet
    @KlidesCorneroftheInternet 4 роки тому +8

    Am I the only one who thinks huge side burns and side bends is like the hottest thing ever?

  • @lucygray6162
    @lucygray6162 4 роки тому +8

    Great observations. I was young when this movie came out and didn't "get" a lot of the insinuations (and was also turned off by the musical parts), but want to watch it again now. And thank you for the tip about the Shelley Winters interview. I always had a crush on him, and he proved himself a man's man in that interview. She was such a cow.

  • @scargastondisneymovies1805
    @scargastondisneymovies1805 2 роки тому +3

    I love Oliver!

  • @gypsyfox3285
    @gypsyfox3285 4 роки тому +4

    Deserved and earned the part indeed having already been a brilliant actor for years prior to this amazing film.

  • @colliric
    @colliric 2 роки тому +6

    18:35.
    One of the most scariest scenes with Bill Sikes is when he threatens Fagin by grabbing him by the throat.
    If you have a good knowledge of Jews and the Jewish religion, you know why this scene is terrifying. Sikes holds him up and specifically mentions Chickens to him, because he is threatening to cut his throat open with his cutthroat knife and strangle him.
    Fagin as a Jew is highly likely to actually be familiar with this sound because of the religious tradition in his community known as the Kapparot. In which Hasidic Ultra Orthodox Jews sacrifice Chickens after holding them up by the wings, praying their sins go into it, before cutting open its throat and wringing off its head in a ritualistic kosher slaughter.
    Sikes knows Fagin is very familiar with this ceremony, even though as a non-Hasidic Jew, he has not actually ever done or witnessed it.
    This is why Fagin immediately warns Dodger and then sings Reviewing The Situation after this scene. Bill's threat in this scene was particularly terrifying for him.

    • @sorryifoldcomment8596
      @sorryifoldcomment8596 2 роки тому

      Wow I had no knowledge of the chicken ceremony, thank you! The scene actually makes a lot more sense, since it's not like any of these characters are farmers and if a single chicken lived around there I didn't see it.

  • @ROZAKRIU
    @ROZAKRIU 6 місяців тому +2

    Why the hell didn't Oliver Reed win an Acamedy Award for his performance????? The greatest performance of a villain in movie history, HANDS DOWN!!!!!!

  • @anotherblonde
    @anotherblonde 5 років тому +50

    Bulls-Eye not Bulldog

    • @matthewwalton4221
      @matthewwalton4221 5 років тому +1

      It's bullseye as I remember

    • @teetywoo3156
      @teetywoo3156 5 років тому

      I was going to say

    • @stuartwinter8900
      @stuartwinter8900 4 роки тому +1

      dont you back answer me my girl three days since i spotted him and what you done about it hey we gotta get hold of him somehow

    • @robertmartyr5464
      @robertmartyr5464 4 роки тому

      *a SMOKER S.C.U.M..B.A.G & a DRUNK S.C.U.M..B.A.G.!!!*

    • @PunkyMuskRat
      @PunkyMuskRat 4 роки тому

      Thank you

  • @carolinependleton8445
    @carolinependleton8445 Рік тому +1

    Great film,I loved it as a child.The musical side was brilliant,every character was perfectly suited.

  • @marsthelewis
    @marsthelewis 5 років тому +2

    What a surprising topic. Thank you! I grew up with that movie.

  • @adelef8280
    @adelef8280 3 роки тому +3

    Olly Reed was always reluctant to talk about Bill Sykes after, like he disowned the part, but it was the part that made him.

  • @d-evilmc
    @d-evilmc 4 роки тому +2

    Fantastic work as always. Your work is great. It makes me see new elements to Films I have hugely Loved and seen many times. This is one of my Fave. It really is a Great film. I always get a look when I say how much I like it but then I explaine, just watch it and take it in. Its a classic.

  • @someguy9471
    @someguy9471 3 місяці тому +1

    Oliver Reed was and still is in the top 10 greatest actors of all time. I don’t care what anyone says or thinks, this guy deserved an Oscar for this role, he was amazing. The first scene you see him in is my personal favorite, not a word spoken but it’s perfect because he doesn’t need to speak, he says plenty with body language. Reed is a national treasure, I would’ve loved to see him and Anthony Hopkins in the same film, it would’ve won every damn award you could think of. Love this guy I thought he was great in every role he did, including gladiator he was perfect in that movie

  • @RodCornholio
    @RodCornholio 3 роки тому +2

    I need to rewatch Oliver! Never forgot Bill. Much more intimidating in HD!