The Great Stink of 1858 (2023)

Review Team

4/5

The Great Stink of 1858 presents a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal moment in London's history. Directed by Dr Xand van Tulleken, the film effectively captures the chaos and societal upheaval caused by the summer heatwave and the resulting stench from the River Thames. The narrative is structured ... Show more >> The Great Stink of 1858 presents a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal moment in London's history. Directed by Dr Xand van Tulleken, the film effectively captures the chaos and societal upheaval caused by the summer heatwave and the resulting stench from the River Thames. The narrative is structured around the experiences of Londoners grappling with the unbearable odour and the ensuing public health crisis. The performances are commendable, with actors portraying a range of emotions from despair to determination. The film’s direction balances historical accuracy with engaging storytelling, making it both informative and entertaining. Some may find the pacing slow at times, but the depth of character development and the exploration of themes such as urban planning and public health make it a worthwhile watch. Overall, The Great Stink of 1858 offers a compelling portrayal of how a crisis can lead to significant societal change. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

The Great Stink of 1858 is an intriguing film that brings to life a rather smelly chapter in history, but it doesn’t quite hit the mark in execution. While the premise is solid, the film sometimes feels bogged down by its earnestness. The visuals of a sweltering London are striking, and the historic ... Show more >> The Great Stink of 1858 is an intriguing film that brings to life a rather smelly chapter in history, but it doesn’t quite hit the mark in execution. While the premise is solid, the film sometimes feels bogged down by its earnestness. The visuals of a sweltering London are striking, and the historical context is fascinating, but the pacing can drag, making it a bit of a slog at times. Performances are decent, but they lack the spark to truly engage the audience. There are moments of genuine tension and drama when the public reacts to the stench, yet these moments are sometimes overshadowed by lengthy exposition. I appreciated the effort to shed light on a lesser-known historical event, but I wish the film had found a better balance between education and entertainment. It’s a decent watch for history buffs, but those looking for a gripping narrative might find it lacking. Show less