Pride & Prejudice - 2005

There are so many delights to director Joe Wright's take on the story, and his direction is a strong place to start. In spite of having to condense the tale to fit a movie running time, he nonetheless injects a real energy and intelligence to his retelling, and he's served supremely well by his cast. Backed up by strong support by the likes of Brenda Blethyn and Donald Sutherland, it's Keira Knightley in the lead turn who's a real surprise here. Her performance is a real joy, and very much at the core of the film's success.

The film inevitably draws comparison with the superb 1995 BBC adaptation, and while arguably it doesn't quite scale the same peaks, it's to the credit of the filmmakers that their version still holds strong. For this is a tremendously enjoyable drama, and one that should continue to find an audience for a long time to come. An excellent film.--Simon Brew

I came out of the cinema feeling as though all was well in the world, and loved it so much I had to go back and see it the next week. A wonderful adaption, and will certainly be in equal standing with my BBC version in my DVD collection. (And I never thought I would write that!)


could watch again and again and again   October 19, 2005
34 out of 41 found this review helpful

This is a film based on a book not a film of the book, therefore yes as stated in other reviews bits are missed out and the language changed a little, to keep the viewer interested and to make it easier to understand. But as a film I find it highly emotional with some excellent characters, beautiful scenery and filmed to perfection. Definately not americanised trash (most of the actors being british!)! I think Keira Knightley played a lovely Lizzy Bennett, not at all silly and cute but clever and complex. And Macfadyen who had a lot to live up to following Colin Firths excellent portrayal was very good as Darcy.
Seen it twice at the cinema and will definately buy on dvd! I highly recommend this movie!


It's not supposed to be the book.   August 3, 2006
Nicola Jarvis (Herts, UK)
24 out of 33 found this review helpful

I think it is incredibly wrong that other reviewers are giving this one star just because they feel it's not true to the book, or to the BBC One series. This film is an ADAPTATION. That does not mean they are to translate everything from a book onto the screen. That idea is insane. People who are giving this film one star are prejudiced themselves against it. How can one ignore the beautiful scenery and direction? The haunting soundtrack? The outstanding acting? Doesn't a film deserve to be credited on more than one aspect alone (in this case - its faithfulness to the book)? The cover says the film is BASED on the novel - it's not a transcript. Therefore it shouldn't be judged as one.

I would criticise any actor or actresses who simply emulated another's performance. So no, Matthew MacFadyen shouldn't be acting as Darcy like Colin Firth did; that would be humiliating. Matthew and Keira were given a screen play, from which they interpreted their characters from and they interpreted them very well. In such a short film MacFadyen brought all different dimensions to his character. His social phobia was a beautiful thing to watch. Keira's Elizabeth was strong headed, intelligent and DID convey her inner struggle with her feelings for Darcy. The dumbing down of Jane and Mr. Bingley is surely to emphasise the relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy. The Bennetts were lively, amusing and endearing. Donald Sutherland was exceptional as Mr. Bennett. The characters may not have been the same ones you may have read in the book, but all the actors created characters that are just as lovable. The chemistry between the two leads was just so intense. I have never reacted the way I did to a screen couple before. I was so badly rooting for both of them. I was so impressed I wanted to applaude once the credits started rolling.

Obviously, a lot of people that have watched this film, read the book and saw the BBC version completely missed the moral of the story - keep an open mind. So many people have missed the point here. This film is beautiful is so many ways, it deserves to stand on its own by its own merit. Don't judge it next to the book - it's not supposed to be the book.

I have never given a film five stars before since I am of the belief that nothing can be perfect - but seriously, this film hits the spot. Well done to everyone involved.


No it's not the same as reading the book   October 21, 2005
11 out of 15 found this review helpful

No it's not the same as reading the book, or watching the six hour drama, but this film is worth it. If you want a quick fix of Mr Darcy and overwhealming romance, this is the film for you. It is only 2 hours long, and there is alot to fit in, so it is fast paced and thoroughly enjoyable. This film lets you know what true romance really is, it will make you want to read the book over and over again!!!!


You have bewitched me !   October 23, 2005
Ms Claire D Fox (UK, Peak District)
11 out of 15 found this review helpful

Matthew Macfadyen is fabulous as Mr Darcy. As a long time fan of Colin Firth I never thought this role could be played by anyone else but Matthew has just the right "taciturn nature" and plays the role perfectly. The natural feel of the movie is breathtaking, the soundtrack is also wonderful. The best costume drama adaptation ever!