By Jacob Gillard
Charles Dickens’ novel Oliver Twist introduced readers to a harsh yet fascinating version of Victorian England, centred on the innocent Oliver and the criminals he encounters.
Among them was the Artful Dodger, a clever and charismatic pickpocket who quickly became one of the story’s most memorable characters.
But what happened to him after the events of the novel? The 2023 Disney+ show attempts to answer that question.
While the series moves away from the original story of Oliver Twist, it manages to retain Dickens’ charm while creating a new and exciting narrative of its own.
In Oliver Twist, the Artful Dodger is a sneaky yet confident thief who is shaped by his environment, which explains his loyalty to Fagin. His role in the novel reflects how easily young people can be influenced by stronger authority figures.
In contrast, the 2023 Disney+ series presents an older and more self-aware version of the character. Although he remains somewhat reckless, he recognises Fagin’s manipulative tactics and is actively trying to break free from his criminal past.
Beyond its character reinvention, the series also succeeds through its humour and sense of adventure. Dodger’s sharp sarcasm adds levity, even during tense moments, keeping the tone engaging rather than overly dark.
The surgical scenes introduce a different kind of intensity, contrasting his criminal past with his attempts at respectability.
Meanwhile, the ongoing tension between Dodger and Fagin fuels both conflict and emotional depth, while action-driven sequences maintain momentum.
This blend of wit, drama, and suspense allows the show to feel modern while still echoing the mischievous spirit of Dickens’ original work.
In the end, The Artful Dodger manages to step away from the original story while still feeling true to the character audiences first met in Oliver Twist. It is funny, adventurous, and proof that even a pickpocket can grow beyond his past.
Featured image: Thomas Brodie-Sangster stars as the title character in The Artful Dodger. Photo: YouTube
