First Fagin, The

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Directed by Helen Gaynor, Alan Rosenthal

Produced by Veronica Fury, Alan Rosenthal, Stephen Thomas

When Charles Dickens created the character of Fagin in his novel, Oliver Twist, he gave birth to one of the most infamous rogues in English literature. Few people know that Dickens' portrait of Fagin drew inspiration from the life of the Jewish receiver and fencer of stolen goods, Ikey Solomon. Much has been written about Ikey's exploits: his amazing and daring prison escapes have captured people's imaginations through the generations.

The First Fagin recreates Ikey's journey from London's dens of vice, Newgate jail, and the notorious prison 'hulks' on the Thames to a daring escape to the new world of America. Ikey then tempted fate by sailing to Tasmania in search of his wife who had been transported as a convict. In Tasmania, Ikey began a long legal battle to defy the authorities of one of Australia's most severe convict settlements.

The First Fagin seamlessly blends reconstructed dramatic sequences with historical documentary. It's a colourful and lively evocation of a turbulent period and a riveting account of the dramatic swings in Ikey Solomon's fate.

Running Time: 87 mins

Classification: PG (Parental Guidance)

ATOM has also produced a study guide for The First Fagin. This study guide is available for download here.