Daniel Radcliffe and Maggie Smith star in this TV adaptation (Image: BBC)

A period drama based on a classic novel that was released more than 20 years ago is still being praised by fans who say it is a “masterpiece” – and it is free to watch on BBC iPlayer.

David Copperfield is a two-part BBC television drama adaptation of Charles Dickens’s 1850 novel of the same name. Written by Adrian Hodges, the first part was shown on Christmas Day 1999, and the second part the following day.

The series allowed for the acting debut of Daniel Radcliffe, who later shot to stardom as the title character of the Harry Potter film series, where he collaborated with his David Copperfield co-stars Maggie Smith, Zoë Wanamaker, Imelda Staunton, Dawn French and Paul Whitehouse.

David Copperfield was Daniel Radcliffe’s acting debut (Image: BBC)

The series synopsis reads: “David Copperfield chronicles the life of an orphan from birth through his journey to become a writer, detailing his hardships and encounters with memorable characters like Mr Micawber and Uriah Heep. The story follows his happy childhood, the trauma of his mother’s remarriage to a cruel stepfather, his subsequent work in a factory, and his eventual triumph over adversity through his own and others’ help, culminating in finding true love and happiness with Agnes.”

David Copperfield won a Peabody Award in 2000 and has been highly praised by viewers. On IMDb, one user described the series as “brilliant latter-day adaptation of Dickens’ autobiographical masterpiece that scores rising triumphs on all fronts”.

David Copperfield is available to stream on BBC iPlayer (Image: BBC)
Another reviewer said it was the “best adaptation”, adding: “This adaptation by far beats all the David Copperfield movies. Daniel Radcliffe as David Copperfield is wonderful! He is as angelic as David. The acting by all the adults in this film was wonderful! Agnes, Peggoty, and Aunt Betsy were all portrayed well! At least, they were all better than the 2000 TV version of David Copperfield”.

“Dickens would be proud. Every line is delightful, from ‘Barkis is willing’ to Tom Wilkinson’s narration of direct passages from Dickens. Hats off to teleplay adapter Adrian Hodges, and to everyone in the cast. This is a classic to treasure,” said a third.

A fourth viewer expressed: “I think that this film was extremely good. The actors made the story come to life, even for those of us who don’t like the writing of the old masters. I especially would like to congratulate Daniel Radcliffe for an outstanding debut. He is the Oscar winner of the future. Mark my words…”

David Copperfield is available to stream on BBC iPlayer right now.

SOURCE: https://www.express.co.uk/showbiz/tv-radio/2214005/masterpiece-bbc-drama-based-beloved