A Handful of Dust
English aristocrat Tony Last welcomes tragedy into his life when he invites John Beaver to visit his vast estate. There Beaver makes the acquaintance of Tony's wife, Brenda. Together, they continue their relationship in a series of bedroom assignations in London. Trusting to a fault, Tony is unaware that anything is amiss until his wife suddenly asks for a divorce. With his life in turmoil, Tony goes on a haphazard journey to South America.
Critics Sentiment
Tony realizes Todd is holding him captive to read Dickens
Brenda tells Tony about the affair and demands divorce
The film's most dramatic shift occurs from the devastating revelation of Brenda's affair immediately after their son's death (3.8) to Tony's eventual financial revenge against his wife's greed (7.2).
Critics found A Handful of Dust to be a beautifully crafted but emotionally brutal adaptation that builds from domestic tragedy to nightmarish imprisonment. While the early acts received measured praise for period atmosphere and performances, the film's reputation rests heavily on Alec Guinness's terrifying final act, which most reviewers considered the highlight. The overall reception reflects appreciation for the technical craft and performances while acknowledging the story's deliberately cruel and unforgiving nature.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 36
James Wilby
Tony Last
Kristin Scott Thomas
Brenda Last
Rupert Graves
John Beaver
Pip Torrens
Jock Grant-Menzies
Judi Dench
Mrs. Beaver
Alec Guinness
Mr. Todd
Beatie Edney
Marjorie
Christopher Godwin
Dr. Messinger
Jackson Kyle
John Andrew
Anjelica Huston
Mrs. Rattery
Jeanne Watts
Nanny
Norman Lumsden
Ambrose
Richard Beale
Ben
Kate Percival
Miss Ripon
Richard Leech
Doctor
Roger Miller
Vicar
Stephen Fry
Reggie
Tristram Jellinek
Richard Last
Graham Crowden
Mr. Graceful
John Quentin
Brenda's Solicitor
Crew
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