I adore M. R. James. I particularly love all the adaptations shown at Christmas. Well, I say all....
This was more than a disappointment, it was a betrayal. While the actors did a brilliant job, the crew too. The writer brought in (and very much an honour to be called on) decided to add depression and grief into a plot which was already tight and fully formed in its message... a message which was muddied by the writers need for recognition of his own touch placed. Well, we didn't need his touch and this will remain the only adaptation that I at least, will never revisit.
Thank the literary gods for the original adaptation and writer. Please don't unleash that writer on classics again.
Thank the literary gods for the original adaptation and writer. Please don't unleash that writer on classics again.