Vanity Fair (1987)

Vanity Fair is a riveting classic British television drama series brought to life by the BBC in 1987, based on the literary masterpiece of the same name by William Makepeace Thackeray. In its much-lauded rendition of Thackeray's 1847 novel, the series gives viewers a rich, immersive foray into the social, moral, and human complexities of 19th century England.

The series centers around the irrepressible, ambitious, and beguiling anti-heroine, Becky Sharp. Becky is a woman who is determined to transcend her lowly, impoverished origins and ascend to the higher echelons of English society. This is an audacious goal for a woman of her station in the period's harshly stratified social hierarchy and yet Becky, with her distinctive blend of wit, charm, cunning, and ruthlessness, appears undeterred.

Raised in Miss Pinkerton's Academy for young women with limited prospects, the intelligent and vivacious Becky first serves as a governess but sets her sights much higher. Her friend Amelia Sedley stands as a stark contrast to Becky's ambitions with more moderate aspirations and an unquestioning acceptance of society's stringent rules.

In bringing Thackeray's sprawling epic to life, Vanity Fair journeys alongside Becky and Amelia through the long trails of their lives, offering viewers a nuanced exploration of their characters. With a remarkable combination of drama and satire, the plot weaves their enthralling stories, constructing a vivid picture of 19th century British society.

The series brilliantly encapsulates the ebb and flow of fortunes and class dynamics characteristic of the era. Against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars, it adeptly layers romantic turmoil, scandalous intrigue, and biting social critique, offering a theatrical tapestry of the manners, mores, follies, and vices of the time.

As the story unfolds, the destiny of Becky and Amelia intertwines with a rich ensemble of diverse characters both nobility and commoners alike. Their stories are intricately layered, offering humorous, poignant, and sometimes sobering snapshots of their lives. This complex web of characters and their interweaving relationships throw into sharp relief the vanity, indulgence, and hypocrisy that underpinned England's aristocratic society.

The 1987 adaptation of Vanity Fair stands out for its exceptional execution in both scripting and performances. The series boasts a phenomenal cast, each of whom brings their character to life with skill and conviction, further enhancing its narrative richness. Eve Matheson's portrayal of Becky Sharp is particularly noteworthy, capturing her character's paradoxes and intricacies brilliantly. Rebecca Saire gives an equally compelling performance as Amelia Sedley, shedding light on the character's naivety and generosity.

From the opulent drawing rooms of English aristocrats to the war-torn battlefield of Waterloo, the series features outstanding production values. The costumes, sets, and locations authentically depict the era's fashion and architectural grandeur, enhancing the overall visual narrative effectively. The series' hauntingly beautiful musical score, especially its theme song "Vanity Fare," is another element that stands out, augmenting its emotional depth and resonance.

True to the spirit of Thackeray's writing, the series does not shy away from effectively satirizing and criticizing the superficialities and pretensions of society, thereby imparting Vanity Fair with its enduring relevance. The show's biting commentary on society's obsession with wealth and status, and its exposition of the stratification and the constricting nature of class systems, resonate just as powerfully today as they did in Thackeray's time.

The BBC's 1987 version of Vanity Fair offers a compelling and engaging viewing experience for fans of British historical dramas and literature alike. With its superb acting, incisive storytelling, impressive production design, and evocative music, it remains a celebrated example of how a quintessential piece of literature can be successfully adapted for television to capture new audiences without losing its original essence. The series serves not only as a captivating depiction of a bygone era but also as a timeless, universal exploration of human weakness, ambition, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of vanity. A must-watch for any aficionado of classic literature or period drama!