Oliver Twist is a 1982 madeforTV adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic of the same name, premiering on the CBS television network as part of the Hallmark Hall of Fame. Stars include George C. Scott, Tim Curry, Cherie Lunghi, and introducing Richard Charles as Oliver, in his first major film role.
Sowerberry exploits Olivers pathetic features by using him as a silent mourner, present at burials for the dead who are without family or friends, many of them children. Olivers situation is not much different than the workhouse, as he is given a workbench to sleep on and scraps that Sowerberrys dogs refuse to eat for food. Oliver also becomes the object of Noah Claypoles Philip Davis hatred.Claypole, a teenager, has been assigned to supervise Oliver. He gives Oliver harsh tasks and becomes further resentful when Sowerberry decides to use Oliver instead of him for silent mourner duties. Claypole taunts Oliver one day, making fun of his dead mother. The insulting remark angers Oliver, who delivers a surprisingly powerful blow to Claypoles face, breaking his nose. ........
Source: Wikipedia