This 40-minute gem is currently available as a filler feature on the DVD of HARD TIMES, part of a Dickens set containing many BBC classic productions. Because of the popularity of A Christmas Carol, many readers forget that Dickens churned out many other ghost stories for periodicals, and this is one of the best. It's a simple two-man show for the most part, with Denholm Elliott doing a working-class character: a railroad signalman haunted by apparitions that always predict an upcoming disaster. The claustrophobic set (a small signal tower near a railroad tunnel in a narrow "cut") is perfect for the story. The camera is used effectively, with a variety of angles and some nicely-planned shots. The only factor that dates this production to the 1970s is the use of cheesy electronic music effects from time to time. Otherwise it's a timeless, thoughtful classic short subject. Sure, you can predict how it's going to end; but you still want to wait and see how Dickens (and the director) bring it off.
Review of The Signalman
