Literary adaptations just don't get any better than director Joe Wright's 2005 version of Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice. The key word here is adaptation, because Wright and gifted screenwriter Deborah Moggach have ta... more »ken liberties with Austen's classic novel that purists may find objectionable, but in this exquisite film their artistic decisions are entirely justified and exceptionally well executed. It's a more rural England that we see here, circa 1790 (as opposed to Austen's early 19th century), in which Elizabeth Bennet (Keira Knightley) is one of several sisters primed for marriage, with an anxious mother (Brenda Blethyn) only too desperate to see her daughters paired off with the finest, richest husbands available. Elizabeth is strong-willed and opinionated, but her head (not to mention her pride and prejudice) lead her heart astray when she meets the wealthy Mr. Darcy (Matthew Macfadyen), whose own sense of decency and discretion (not to mention his pride and prejudice) prevent him from expressing his mutual affection. They're clearly meant for each other, and as Knightley's performance lights up the screen (still young enough to be girlishly impertinent, yet wise beyond her 20 years), Austen's timeless romance yields yet another timeless adaptation, easily on par with the beloved BBC miniseries that has been embraced by millions since originally broadcast in 1995. Individual tastes will vary as to which version should be considered "definitive," but with a stellar supporting cast including Judi Dench and Donald Sutherland, this impeccable production achieves its own kind of perfection. --Jeff Shannon« less
Alice B. (AliceMay) from LACEY, WA Reviewed on 6/24/2021...
I prefer the 1995 BBC version as it is more faithful to the book, especially in the location of some of the key scenes. However, having said that, the principle characters are very well portrayed. Matthew Macfayden makes a very appealing Mr. Darcy and Keira Knightley is lovely and captures Elizabeth Bennet's spirit and personality very well. I think Matthew Macfayden might perhaps convey Darcy's shyness (as opposed to arrogance) slightly better than Colin Firth. (Of course, they're both gorgeous!) Still think Colin Firth has better hair, though! :o)
Amanda D. (sophiesperspective) Reviewed on 2/13/2013...
A delightful movie indeed. One of the few "romantic" movies I can actually and enjoy without feeling sick (but honestly, I'd rather read the book or watch one of the longer versions!). Those who characterize Pride and Prejudice as purely romantic are missing the larger point of the work, which admittedly does not translate as well as I would like into this version of the movie.
Pride and Prejudice is not a novel about the love lives of the Bennett girls. Pride and Prejudice is a story about the pride and prejudice of two people, and how that plays out in the world. The characterization of Jane Austen's characters is fascinating, though, once more, rather rushed in this version. For those who "do not have time" to watch either of the 5 hour versions (http://sophiesmindset.blogspot.com/2007/05/nothing-but-very-deepest-love-will_11.html; http://sophiesmindset.blogspot.com/2008/08/jane-austens-pride-and-prejudice.html), and are too lazy to pick up the book to read will find the gist of the plot in this movie. And it is done rather well, all things considered.
I think the casting is excellent ... aside from Kiera Knightly who really just rubs me the wrong way as Lizzie. Just realize that if you do not supplement this version with the longer one, or with the book, you are missing out on so much of what Austen filled her book with: character analysis and real people, not a sappy romance.
(originally published on http://sophiesmindset.blogspot.com/2007/08/we-are-all-fools-in-love.html)
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Marsha E. from SALINAS, CA Reviewed on 2/16/2012...
This is a great movie. It is one of my all time favorite love stories. Keira Knightley is amazing as "Lizzie". She has the right amount of sass,desire, and passion. The basis of the story is a typical poor girl meets rich guy. At first rich guy sneers at girl but then slowly falls in love with her and she at first sneers at him and then she falls in love with him. I espically like the scenes at the dances and when Lizzie tells off her suitor. One thing I think this is more of a women's movie, but anyone can enjoy it!
Matilda T. from MANLIUS, NY Reviewed on 5/30/2011...
Love this movie. About two strong prersonalities that at first seem to repel each other then attract. Beautiful to see quiet acts of love that are not proud or boastful but thoughtful and caring. This movie shows selfless love.
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Ashley K. (asmkern) from W FRANKFORT, IL Reviewed on 2/8/2010...
I have never read the book but I love this movie! It's a great romantic story that can stand the test of time. Even if you are not really into period pieces, I think you would enjoy this one because of its universal story about love and emotions.
2 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Sarah F. (keanupattinson) from INDIANAPOLIS, IN Reviewed on 7/30/2009...
This is one of my favorite movies, definitely worth looking into.
2 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Susan G. (liliroze) from NEW CASTLE, DE Reviewed on 2/22/2009...
This movie is a huge disappoint to anyone who loves the book. Elizabeth Bennet is portrayed as a silly, thoughtless girl, who lives in a home barely one step above the dirty cheapside streets of London. The subtlety Austen incorporated into Elizabeth is misunderstood by the director of the film, and Knightly herself. Instead of Elizabeth walking to visit her beloved sister at Netherfield, not caring if her shoes and skirt hem get dirty, the movie Elizabeth plays barefoot in the mud and pigs roam in and out of the house.
Our movie Darcy, while incredibly handsome, turns into a blithering idiot at the end of the film, looking more like he has trekked in his underclothes from Pemberley to come propose to Elizabeth. He comes across as a person more fit for an asylum.
If you are looking for a good movie version of the book, look no further than Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle.