A successful movie is one, which captures the viewer’s attention from beginning to end and is able to conjure their emotions. The 1995 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice does so through its timeless theme and relatable characters. This six episode mini series effectively portrays every detail present in Jane Austen’s novel and transports the viewer into nineteenth century England. BBC’s interpretation of the story surpasses the 2005 version and gives life to this two-century-old novel.
The series begins with the dilemma of Mr Bennet who fears that his family will lose his inheritance after his death. The only thing that can save his family from financial trouble is if one of his daughters marries a wealthy man. Mrs Bennet, an anxious woman, is determined to find extremely rich men to secure her as well as her daughters’ futures. The Bennets have five daughters: Jane, the eldest, Elizabeth, Mary, Kitty and lastly Lydia. All of them are considered of marriageable age but finding a suitable husband is not as easy as it seems. When a young and wealthy man named Mr Charles Bingely rents a mansion near the Bennets’ village, the news excites Mrs Bennet who hopes he will fall in love with one of her daughters. Mr Bingley’s friend, Mr Darcy, also stays at the mansion. He too is a dashing young man who has double the fortune Bingley has. The encounter between the Bennet family, Mr Bingley and Mr Darcy takes place at a local ball held to welcome the two young men into the neighborhood. Jane and Mr Bingley seem to fall in love at first sight; on the other hand, Elizabeth finds Mr Darcy arrogant, cold and rude for having a prejudice against those who have less wealth compared to him. Meanwhile, Elizabeth comes across a handsome military officer named George Wickham. Wickham possesses all the traits that attract Elizabeth towards him; he is a gentleman who respects women, cares about their emotions, and is charming. As Wickham and Elizabeth’s friendship develops she learns that Wickham and Darcy grew up together as children and are now enemies. When Elizabeth discovers Wickham’s past through Mr Darcy she realizes that appearances can be deceptive.
Pride and Prejudice is a masterpiece due to its realistic plot, timeless themes, various characters and beautiful setting. What makes this enjoyable is the fact that it is a mini series. The lengthened time of the series accurately captures every detail of the novel and the development of all characters that movies with a time limit are unable to do. Jennifer Ehle passionately depicts Elizabeth Bennet’s character through the twinkle in her eye at the sight of Wickham and the crease on her forehead whenever Darcy acts arrogant. Collin Firth is also in-sync with his character and artistically balances appearing arrogant without appearing rude or hateful. Pride and Prejudice mirrors society’s attitude towards differences in social class and wealth and teaches us how true love can overcome all of these differences.
Below is a link to the first episode of the miniseries. Hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Il3TrP2kRQ