

The Ruby in the Smoke
Sally Lockhart has struck a man dead with just three words, sent to her in a message from her father just before he drowned in the South China Seas. But unfortunately, Sally has no idea what the words The Seven Blessings mean. Before long, she is drawn into a mystery filled with opium, secrets from her own past and, at the heart of it all, the Ruby of Agrapur.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set in Victorian London, this adaptation follows Sally Lockhart, a young woman who becomes entangled in a dangerous conspiracy after her father's death. Inheriting a mysterious ruby and a cryptic message, Sally must navigate the treacherous underbelly of the city to uncover the truth about her family's past and a powerful secret society.
Critical Reception
The film was generally well-received by audiences, particularly for its faithful adaptation of the Philip Pullman novel and its strong period atmosphere. While not a major critical event, it was praised for its engaging plot and Billie Piper's performance.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its engaging mystery and strong sense of Victorian atmosphere.
- Billie Piper's performance as Sally Lockhart was a highlight for many.
- Some viewers found the pacing a bit slow at times, but the plot remained intriguing.
Google audience: Audience reception on Google is not widely documented for this specific broadcast. However, general sentiment often points to appreciation for its faithful adaptation of the source material and its historical setting.
Fun Fact
This television film is an adaptation of the first novel in Philip Pullman's 'Sally Lockhart' quartet, which are often considered companion novels to his more famous 'His Dark Materials' series.
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