The Black Velvet Gown

The Black Velvet Gown

1991 · ★ 5.8 · Drama, Romance

In the 1830's in northern England, Riah Millican, a widow with three children, takes a job as housekeeper to a reclusive former teacher, Percival Miller. Miller makes Riah the gift of a black velvet gown, and even educates her children. But when Riah discovers the reason behind Miller's gifts, she vows to leave his house, but Miller has a hold on her, even after his death, when he leaves his house to her on the condition that she never marry. Riah's daughter, Biddy, grows up and becomes a laundress in a large house where her education keeps her from fitting in and makes her a target. But it also catches the eye of a son of the house, and with Miller's legacies, Biddy may yet find her way to happiness.

Directed by Norman Stone · Written by Gordon Hann

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Cast

Bob Peck Percival Miller
Janet McTeer Riah Millican
Geraldine Somerville Biddy Millican
Jonathan Firth Paul Gallmington
David Hunt Laurence Gallmington
Brendan P. Healy Tol Briston
Jean Anderson Madame Gallmington
Christopher Benjamin Anthony Gallington
Wendy Williams Grace Gallmington
Aran Bell Stephen Gallmington
Louise Lombard Lucy Gallmington
Madeleine Moffat Jessie Hobson

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