Charles Dickens Isle of Wight - Film Documentary

The Isle of Wight has long been a favourite holiday destination for millions of Brits. Situated just off the South Coast of mainland Britain, it was also a firm favourite for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, so much so, Albert built the queen their favourite holiday retreat there, Osborne House.

But what many people don’t know is that the island has been an inspiration to many pioneering people too. During Victorian times the Island was THE place to visit, attracting several distinguished writers, from Tennyson to Thackeray. But perhaps one of its most famous was Charles Dickens. In this short film by acclaimed Film and TV Director Jamie Langton (Craig Charles UFO Conspiracies, Educating Essex) it covers the story of Dickens long summer stay on the island. Contributors include Dickens great great grandson, Ian Dickens who now lives on the island and local Havilland holiday cottage owner Alan Cartwright. Sue Lowday conducts the special 'Dickens' walks while Kevin Wilson plays Charles Dickens. His research into his cottage revealed a potential connection with two locals that ended up featured in two of Dickens classic novels, Miss Haversham in Great Expectations and Mr Dick in David Copperfield.

Dickens spent a few days in July 1849 with his close friend the 'Christmas Carol’ illustrator, John Leech searching the south coast for a suitable holiday spot for their families for the summer. Dickens remembered the invitation from his friend the Rev.James White the previous year to stay in Bonchurch and was immediately struck by the mediterranean beauty of this part of the island. Whilst there Dickens got to know several locals who had similar storyline connections to those who wrote in two of his most famous works, Great Expectations and David Copperfield.

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