This is such a good description of the script but also the incomparable talent of the cast. Also the interpretation of the eye roll as a classic response to one of those “male lines” that lizzie sees through. This is a type of anachronism that is actually so in line with Austen and the genius and honesty of her writing way back when!
@@carolhama4156Oh yes Jennifer Ehle. Her eyes are so so beautiful 🥺. Although I'm a big fan of Colin Firth, the most outstanding performance in this adaption belongs to her.
For me, the music score in the corridor scene tells what was in Darcy's mind was Elizabeth. His smile was a mix of assurance and relief. When he proposed to Lizzy in episode 3, he confessed that he has struggled to repress his affection for her because her family circumstance does not match his. Then we know Lizzy turned him down brutally........but love does not stop just because we are being rejected! So when Darcy saw Lizzy's instantaneous response to look after Georgianna, whom he shields so closely, he knew he is right about this girl. And their exchange of gaze seconds after that gives Darcy the hope of Lizzy's change of mind. Caroline's intention to embarrass Lizzy backfired on her. Darcy took the opportunity to publicly reveal his adoration for Lizzy, which was probably another thing that he had been struggling over. So there we have a man walking in the corridor, feeling relieved and hopeful. And the song Lizzy sang is 'Voi Che Sapete' (You Know What Love Is) from The Marriage of Figaro. I am not a professional. These are just my own interpretations as a faithful supporter of the '95 version. Thank you for the video as always.
I love it when folk offer up their take on this wonderful story. I’m pretty sure you’re right and you make the point so well. I wish I could go back and edit my video ha ha, because now I’m inclined to agree and it makes such good sense when we see his facial expressions, which do seem to confirm everything. Thank you for sharing 🙏
One of the true joys of my life is watching great acting. This greatest production of "Pride And Prejudice" is an oasis in the desert for me...watching these gifted people bring this great story to life, with intelligence, grace, and subtlety and complexity...I love it, in part because you have to truly pay attention to it to make sure you miss nothing that goes on, from foreground to background...so intelligently and intuitively done. It is a treasure, a true one. I'm so pleased that so many others agree, and appreciate this superb production so well. No other can come close to it.
I never took Darcy’s reaction of Lizzie being on foot as negative. I took it more as a moment of being impressed, but slightly surprised at feeling impressed.
My favorite is Lizzy standing next to Georgiana playing the piano. She looks directly at Darcy with the most loving gaze while letting her arms drop to her sides in an absolutely open stance, communicating to him, "I am here, totally, with you and for you in love." This moment is prefaced by her comment to Georgiana about her brother when looking directly at Darcy, she says, "And you know he is never wrong," which grabs his attention in a very direct and responsive way. The whole film is a masterpiece of subtle, yet unmistakably conveyed human connection.
Acceptance of Lizz into family mould.. As Georgiana's sister... D stands vindicated... Hmm Super choice of Darcy nd Liz... Beyond words and I can't comprehend.. More
I had always seen Lydia's trip on the carriage step as emphasising that, even with the "dignity" of being a newly-married woman, she was still impulsive, careless and unladylike.
Mr Collins got far more lucky than he deserved when he married Charlotte. Also, while she’s supposed to be plain, the actress is sooo classically beautiful.
95 pride and prejudice is my favorite version ❤ I'm a huge fan. Thank you for this video. I didn't know about Darcys thumb rub until you pointed it out😊
1995 P&P is my hands down favorite adaptation, because there are so many subtle acting moments in it that honor what you read it in the book. In gloriously subtle ways at times, you see the characters come to life, which is pure magic to me.
I love paying attention to the background characters every time I rewatch it- one of my personal favourites is when Darcy is focusing on Lizzy and Colonel Fitzwilliam's conversation at Hunsford in episode 3 whilst Mr Collins is rambling on to him. Darcy mainly ignores him to stare at Lizzy but does occasionally give a nod of acknowledgement when Charlotte speaks. A small but funny moment!
I love this adaptation. I watch it over and over. I feel a bit of a difference in interpretation of the scene in episode one where Darcy has caught Lizzie having walked to Netherfield. Where you said he was thinking “headstrong, obstinate girl”, I always feel he’s trying not to smile. I feel he’s chagrined because he should find it outrageous by the standards of the time, but he finds her nature charming despite himself. Great video ❤
I think the meeting goes farther than that. I think he is shocked that someone he knows (albeit slightly) would do such a thing. And yet when he challenges her, she retains good manners and forces him to do the same. Elizabeth 1- Darcy 0.
The expression on Mr Darcy's face as Lady C. de B. starts talking of how proficient she (and Anne) would have been if she had ever learnt to play the piano... almost as if feels acutely not how painful it is to leave Rosings, but to have relations 'of whom' he could be ashamed. And the way he rolls his eyes when his future mom-in-law informs Bingley and him that her youngest daughter has been recently married...priceless! God, I love 1995 adaptation. It was a sort of first crush and is always a fond memory
Yeah Colin’s micro expressions tell us so more to Darcy’s character don’t they. It’s as if he has a mischievous side that society daren’t allow him to display!
I actually think the slight smile and look upon Mr. Darcy's face does not have anything to do with Caroline Bingley as he walks the hallway after they have all retired, but the realization that Elizabeth returned his loving gaze and that her heart has also changed. It is the hope and cautious optimism of what might be. I believe this continues the next morning when we see him fussing over what to wear prior to him calling on her, which I believe was to be the second proposal but was undermined by the terrible news from home that sent Elizabeth back home abruptly. Great videos by the way! I'm thoroughly enjoying watching them. This BBC version of Pride and Prejudice is a masterpiece, and I cannot watch any other version except for this one.
I couldn't agree more. He is reliving the warm and encouraging moments they shared and how kind Elizabeth was to his sister. Caroline Bingley and her efforts to insult Elizabeth are the furthest things from his mind.
I have always thought the smiling Mr. Darcy does as he walks down the hall with his dogs is due to a hopeful pondering of "the look" he shared with Lizzy earlier at the piano, since the accompaniment to the Mozart song she sang is the soundtrack in this scene.
Me, too! I do not like the version with Matthew Rhys. ..all THEY do is rattle off their lines as fast as they can and Darcy was poorly cast. He should have had a more mature look and feel to him. In the 1995 version with Colin Firth the characters are so well cast and they act so well together!
Thank you, many interesting points. One comment: About your last point, (Lizzy not telling her father about Darcy's generosity) - in the book too, she convinces her father that she loves Darcy and that he is worthy of love, and obtains his consent and approval, without telling him about it! Only after he relaxes and agrees wholeheartedly to the marriage, she adds the information about Darcy's saving Lydia. I've often wondered why she didn't use that argument to obtain her father's approval - perhaps she didn't want him to think she was accepting Darcy out of gratitude alone.
One thing I didn’t notice on first watching, but thought was hilarious when I did - When they were visiting Lady Catherine, there was a scene with Lizzy talking to Colonel Fitzwilliam. Darcy comes over to speak to them. On re-watching, I realised that although the focus was on Lizzy and Colonel Fitzwilliam, in the background Mr Collins is busy talking to Darcy. Darcy just gets up and walks off when Mr Collins is mid-sentence like he’s not even there 😅
Edit: I see a bunch of people have already commented on this but I'll leave mine just for the mention of "Voi Che Sapete" if anyone didn't know the song and was wondering what it was. It's a fun aria to sing and very accessible for beginning sopranos. 18:32 I don't think Darcy is thinking of Caroline at all here. He seems to be thinking of Lizzy and replaying in his mind events from earlier that evening that made him realize she loves him back, such as her being protective of his sister and the looks she was giving him. A big clue as to the direction of Darcy's thoughts is in "Voi Che Sapete" playing in the background - the same aria Lizzy was singing earlier.
The 1995 version is my favorite. It is almost completely verbatim from the novel. I think there is only one scene from the novel that is missing in the movie. The acting, costuming, set, music, and cinemetography are great. I've watched the DVD dozens of times.
The very first time I was watching the 3rd episode of the 1995 P&P, I remember being moved by the little scene where Charlotte Lucas and Elizabeth are talking about the approaching wedding of Charlotte and Mr Collins and their leaving for Kent. Lucy Scott conveys Charlotte's sadness to leave her beloved friend and the familiar surroundings and her anxiousness in front of the unknown she is about to encounter, very subtly, but it is all there for the viewer to see and hear within those few seconds. What a touching scene! I also savour the actress's superb diction.
It' s my absolutely favourite version of Pride and Prejudice. Best screenplay, finest actors, best suitable music, indeed. Thank you for sharing your interesting ideas and feelings with us❤.
I lost count of the number of times I have watched P&P. Easily 40…50…? It still stands as my favorite film by one of my favorite authors. Each actor was brilliantly chosen and so believable in their role. I love all the little things you notice when rewatching it. Thank you for the lovely video.
The 1995 adaption is overall terrific! Observe that not only Charlotte looks friendly at Lizzy in that scene. Also Lizzy while talking to Lady Catherine has this quick glimpse to her friend Charlotte as if she is talking with her eyes with Charlotte like only best friends can. (and probably that quick glimpse meant "OMG, this Lady is really as awkward as I expected" 😂) Surely it took Lizzy a little while after Charlotte left Meryton to " digest" that situation of Charlotte accepting Mr. Collins. But the series has that lovely scene when they first meet again in Hunsford with their greeting "I am happy to see you" - "and I you" ... which shows that their friendship is just as close as ever (again) and you can see their relief about that at the same time.
I just love how Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth "speak" with their facial expressions, they say so much more with their faces than with their words. This will always be my favourite P&P adaptation❤🥰
My favorite little subtle bit is the scene where Darcy comes upon Elizabeth as she’s just read her letter. He sits her down, and gently takes hold of her arm and strokes it in an very gentle but unconscious manner to give her comfort. It’s like he just can’t help himself when she’s in such distress.
Colin withdraws it too Aftr maybe feeling He's given too much on his feelings for her.. Perhaps.. As unmarried people were not supposed to hold hands... Etc..
I love the scene where Elizabeth visits Charlotte and they have that thinly veiled conversation about how Charlotte manipulates Mr Collins into spending as little time as possible in her company. I love the demeanour of both actors conveying their shared humour
It’s a lovely scene. Prior to this Charlotte was hoping Elizabeth would visit her (often?) in Kent and then when they do meet, we see that Charlotte has taken full control of the situation 👍
I’ve watched this so many times! It’s been a few years, and now I have to watch it again! This is by far the best Pride and Prejudice, and, dare I say, I prefer it over the novel, but that could be after having it pop up in multiple lit classes in university. This feels romantic. The story never felt nearly so romantic. The actors really make this series!
Amazing that 67k have viewed your video in 4 days. Just shows the amazing power of this adaptation to still hold our attention 28 years after it was first broadcast. A classic without a doubt.
Yes I’m blown away at the response to this video. Clearly P&P is a firm favourite still after all these years. I’m very grateful people have tuned in to watch too 👍
I have watched this wonderful series numerous times and never get tired of it. I agree that there is a subtle subplot happening where Mary is rather hopeful of attracting Mr Collins interest. I think Lucy Briers was quite wonderful as Mary and always enjoy watching her. I also think this version is vastly superior to the other versions of Pride and Prejudice.
The scene with Darcy walking through the hallway doesn't take place immediately after his triumphant admission to Caroline Bingley, despite it being the next scene. It is after the guests have left and the house is dark, the lights are extinguished, and if you look closely in the next scene when he's by the fireplace dreaming of Lizzie, he's in the very same room he was in earlier with the Bingleys. So in this sequence through the corridor and by the fireplace, he only has Elizabeth on his mind and all his smiles are for her.
My favourite scenes are where Darcy looks at Lizzie as she turns the pages for Georgiana as she plays the piano, and my favourite of all is Colin Firth's sublime acting when he encounters Lizzie at Pemberley. He is so shocked, nervously trying to make conversation. He's smitten!
In my opinion, Mr. Darcy is thinking about Lizzy as he's walking down the corridor...this is when he realizes he's got it in the bag. Darcy's new confidence regarding the direction of the relationship with Lizzy is what fueled the terse exchange with Caroline. Thank you, Mr. Smith!
This is one of my favorite things to watch ever, and one of the things I love and value so much about this - and the 1995 Persuasion as well - is the subtlety of the acting. The twitch of an eyebrow, the slight pursing of the lips, it is so subtle and you have to pay attention! I think no one could have done better than Jennifer Ehle at Lizzie.
I always thought that Lydia's trip was deliberate as they used it as a metaphor for her and her family's impending downfall and shame. Andrew Davis mentions in an interview that he wishes they had given Darcy and Lizzie more time to talk after the second marriage proposal "I was in the middle before I knew that I had begun" would have been perfect. Confession time I watch this masterpiece at least once a month it is perfection. Nice to know that others still appreciate this wonderful adaptation. Very enjoyable and interesting video as ever. Keep up the good work.
I interpreted the scene in the garden, where Jane runs out to beg Mr Collins go in to answer Mary’s concerns, was showing Jane’s desire to give Lizzie some time alone with Wickham and without Mr Collins around.
I agree with all, except your interpretation of Darcy's emotions and mindset when Lizzy arrives to Bingley's house on foot to check on Jane. I don't think he at all was thinking "obstinate,, headstrong girl." I've never seen his mouth making a grimace there, but trying his best to hold back a smirk, a smile of adoration. She's so completely opposite of every woman he's ever known and he's completely enamored with her. I think it was him trying not to chuckle at his admiration for her independence. In the moment, he's always so pleased with what he sees in her, it's not until he takes a minute to compose himself that he goes through the process of convincing himself how wrong she is.
Yep I agree with you. He's trying to hide his delight and amusement. If you know the direction he had for this scene he's meant to be feeling super attracted to her and part of that attraction I think is (reluctantly) admiring her independence. But due to Lizzie's prejudice towards him she doesn't pick up on it and takes his reaction as him criticising her or being a snob again so she rolls her eyes.
And if you think about it, in the book, he had been in company with her, either dining or dancing, at least five times before he sees her here. That's way more time than Hollywood gives people to get together! He's pretty much in love with her already by this time, and here he finds her both admirable and adorable!
Really liked this review. It brought my heart some joy to see another person watch this series with as much care and interest as I did. Amazingly (after having watched the series in 1995 and again this last week, over and over again) I did see all the subtle expressions and fine acting as you noted here, except the scene where Lydia is flirting with Denny in the background, as Lizzy and Wickam walk in the foreground. Thanks for pointing that out. By the way, Darcy's warm glowing smile while Lizzy played the piano in Pemberly, is my MOST FAVORITE scene of the entire series! :)
One of my favorite hidden moments is when Darcy helps Lizzie out of the carriage. As he is walking away, you can see him flex the hand that he had just used to help her get out of the carriage, such a sweet little detail.
I think you entirely missed what's actually happening with Darcy's expression as he walks down the corridor, candle in hand. He is not "savoring the victory" over Caroline; he has ceased to think of her altogether. His mind is on Elizabeth, and we know this because of the music cue underneath: it is the same song we just heard her sing. The look of satisfaction on his face is because he has decided to propose a second time, and, after the intimate gazes exchanged between the two of them that evening, he feels happy and confident that this time she will accept.
I agree, except for the conclusion that Darcy has made a decision to ask again. I believe he is hopeful because the evening went well, but doubting still - there is abvious anxiety there, especially when he is leaning over the mantelpiece. Can he hope? That is what he is wondering. Importantly, the shot used in the 'flashback' is a DIFFERENT one than previous, and Lizzy's face is more ambiguous. We saw her feelings, but this is Darcy point of view, and he is unsure. Great editing
I agree. Taking into consideration the time period this is set, I think Darcy gets far more satisfaction from the connection between he and Lizzy over the piano versus any sort of win over Miss Bingley. A man of Darcy’s stature would never have considered a woman a suitable opponent in that male dominated society, even if she was the sister of his friend with her own fortune. IMHO I think he probably would have felt chagrined at the outburst against Miss Bingley if he stopped to consider it, since etiquette was everything at that time (“a more gentleman-like manner”). But his mind was filled with thoughts of Lizzy, so I doubt he gave it a second thought.
Absolutely he has dared to hope she is feeling the same way about him and something has changed. He's savouring the memory of her beautiful smile that says so many things and confirms they both share something that the others are unaware of. The music is the same as that which she sang to. He has no interest in Caroline and I doubt he's even thinking of her at that point.
I’m a simple girl, I see ‘95 Pride & Prejudice and I click. I must say, I was not disappointed. And I did the same thing- I pretended Lizzy told Mr Bennett about Darcy’s activities to save their family.
This is my favorite version of Pride And Prejudice. I didn't like the Keira Knightley version...the characters weren't developed enough for my liking and they rushed through a lot of the soliloquies that really robbed the scene's emotions. I have watched this series at least seven or eight times and have seen the items you've examined but never put them into words. These small actions just made the film all the richer to me. Thanks for sharing this...I loved it!
I've tried many times to watch the 2005 version but I find it such a shallow version of the book that i can never finish it. It's especially repulsive since I've watched the 1995 version and read the book the dozens of times. Good grief, I even have the audiobook, recorded by Karen Savage, downloaded to listen to when I'm doing other things like cooking, cleaning or crocheting.
My favourite nuance of the scene with Lydia's not-so-graceful entering the carriage is when she says "funny if I should fall and break my head", and Kitty peevishly replies in a low voice "I wish you would"😄 this in itself is quite hilarious, and then we get Mr Bennet's look at Kitty, which is just priceless. I noticed this exchange somewhere around my 50th viewing of the series (🤭) , probably because I originally watched a translated version that missed it, and since then it has been one of my top favourite background moments of P&P This production is so rich in detail❤I don't know how people can fail to appreciate this fact and put the 2005 version higher. The modern movie feels 2-dimensional and totally lacking that quiet intelligent humour of Jane Austen's novel which Andrew Davies highlighted so well (in fact, often greatly added to😊) in his genious screenplay
In the scene where Darcy walks down the long corridor, I always thought he was contemplating the following day, going to renew his relationship with Lizzie. That he has made up his mind to marry her, and that those thoughts are showing on his face.
One little detail I noticed was the role of flowers in the series. There was a whole tradition of the "language of flowers" in the 19th century, with people in essence sending coded messages by the sort of flowers they presented. In the scene where Mr. Collins proposes to Elizabeth, she is arranging a vase of *sea holly* which is a flower a bit like a thistle, with prickly leaves. You couldn't have found a more appropriate flower to illustrate the uncomfortable situation which unfolds.
The scene where Darcy is walking down the corridor isn’t about his put down of Miss Bingley, huis head is too full of Elizabeth to linger on that conversation, no that triumphant look is a remembrance of the evening when he’s made a massive break through with Lizzie,he’s savouring all of what happened, even Miss Darcey noticed the looks being passed between the two of them whilst she was playing the piano and Mr and Mrs Gardener were by the end of this visit convinced there was something going on with Lizzie and Darcey. It’s a very well written book with lots of undercurrents.
The scene when Elizabeth is playing the pianoforte and signing shows something that Colin Firth does superbly--he is literally smoldering while watching and listening. He conveys the depth of Darcy's feelings with that look in a way that no one else can do.
I do think you misinterpret Darcy's pleasure as he retires down the hallway. Caroline Bingley does not exist for him. He is dismissive of her when she is in his presence. He would give her not a moment's thought when she is absent. It is always Caroline and never Darcy who endeavors to solicit conversation between them. Notice he never looks for her reaction when he refutes her because he is not looking to score points either with her or against her. He is reflecting on Elizabeth. If I recall the preceding scene correctly, Lizzie gave Darcy her sweetest warmest smile with direct eye contact as she rescued Georgiana at the piano. He is savoring that smile and almost daring to hope despite his reservations. If nothing else, he is rejoicing in her adroit compassion for the sister whom he dearly loves. His thoughts are nearly always on Elizabeth or he never would have felt himself driven to proposal.
Yes. He is rejoicing that Elizabeth’s swift block of trauma to Georgiana was both fueled by her growing affection for her and at once followed by her quiet reassuring smile to Darcy that she would deflect any potential harm to the sweet girl. And, I dare say, to him.
1995 is the most faithful version ever. I regret sometimes that they didn't show Mrs. Bennett getting the news of Elizabeth's betrothal, but we've seen for 5 hours how she'll react, so... Only a few lines are added, such as Mr. Bennett saying that Darcy might not turn out to be a blackguard just because he's rich, and those are meant to speed things along, not dumb them down. Lady Catherine in the Olivier version was a Scooby-Doo villain, and I don't know wtf was happening with the Keira version: Changing the dialogue all willy-nilly, with no sense of the beauty, irony and gossipiness of Austen's novel, and Longbourne looks like a pig's barn! Mr. Bennett is a gentleman, not a mud farmer!
Exactly that. The 2005 version doesn’t depict a gentleman and a gentleman’s home. Funny how they thought (as you say) portraying the essence of a pig farmer!
The 2005 version had too many scenes that were so far off from what Jane Austen had written -- I'll highlight just two: 1) Georgiana being vivacious and talkative upon meeting Lizzy, and 2) Lizzy and Darcy making out on a stone table outdoors, she in night clothes and he barefoot. Couldn't take this version serious with this adaptation.
In a post to another video, I said that the 2005 version was high Romantic, which Austen was not. That version is the P&P story as told by Emily Brontë!
I'm so glad I found this video! I read Pride and Prejudice (adapted for young readers) when I was in my mid-teens, and loved it so much I read it through several times over the years. I usually resist watching film adaptations of books that I've read because so often they change the storyline to such an extent that I feel like I'm watching something completely different, but for some reason I decided to watch this miniseries back when it first came out. The moment when Lizzy helps Miss Darcy at the pianoforte ("I'm neglecting you! How can you play without someone to turn the pages?") to cover her distress at hearing Miss Bingley say something about Wickham was a real turning point for me. Up to that point, I really disliked Mr. Darcy, but the way he looked at Lizzy in that moment, I absolutely fell in love with him, or maybe with Colin Firth. It's probably my strongest memory out of many lovely moments from the miniseries.
Love your videos. Another small "tick" is when Lizzy is returning to the Inn where she is staying, the maid calls to her from the upstairs window saying that Mr. Darcy is waiting for her, and the TINY beginning of a smile at the corner of her mouth when she hears he is there. It's almost imperceptible. Another is the way Darcy's look is so intense at Lizzy while she climbs into the carriage as she and her aunt and uncle are leaving Pemberle. Then, as they drive away, she turns to look back at Darcy standing with one leg bent staring at her as they leave. Those intense looks are priceless. Another great tiny moment is the little "giggle" Charlotte emits when Lizzy relates to her the comment she overheard Darcy making about her. LOVE all those scenes. So well done.
Hmm….I disagree. Darcy’s expression is not of annoyance when they meet in the garden when Lizzie has come to visit her sister. I think Darcy is suppressing a laugh or smile & some admiration as he asks Lizzie “on foot?” He can see her muddy dress and lack of care towards social norms as to walking alone to Netherfield in her determination to visit Jane. Watch his eyes - they’re dancing. She sees him trying to suppress a laugh at her and that’s why she rolls her eyes. He later defends her to Miss Bingley, saying that her eyes “were brightened by the exercise.”
Correct. Honestly, all of this is just good acting. These are things that we all appreciate about this version and one of the things makes 1995 far superior to the other versions. But these nuances make us believe each character is the definitive character.
I think Charlotte knows much more than she lets on. She’s not silly and ignorant as some would let us believe. She’s fully aware of all of her friends strengths and faults as well as those of her family, and her chosen husband. She makes what she considers to be the wisest choice with the options she has available to her. The movie can sometimes frustrate us as to why on earth she would willingly go along with Mr. Collins. She’s too good for him by far. But once you’ve read the book, you understand better the actual situation she found herself in, and exactly how little her family had. She did her duty to her family as she saw it. I see her to be just as wise as Lizzy. Perhaps more so, from the very beginning. She knew what would happen, and she made the sacrifice to be simply “content” rather than deliriously in love and blindingly happy. You see that desperation in her voice, expression, and clasping of the hands to Lizzy when she admits she will miss her after she leaves and moves to her husbands house. She knows she’s leaving her whole world behind, and for whom, and it terrifies her. But her choice has been made and she has to live with it. I do agree however that I think everyone who’s ever read the book or seen the movie (any of the versions) would probably be frustrated as to why the author didn’t just put Mr. Collins with Mary. It would have suited them so much better. But Mr. Collins was vain. He wanted a beautiful wife. He also needed someone extremely competent to please Lady Catherine. And the story would not have progressed in the same way if Lizzy had not felt the need to visit her friend after she moved away.
Yes. I saw the mini series first, then read the book. The actress playing Charlotte is young and good looking. So the necessity she refers to is less obvious. But as you say, the book makes it clear. Also, while I enjoy Mr Collins for being absurd in the adaptation, he isn't as bad in the book. He was worse on the screen to be more entertaining.
@joannageorge7305 David Bamber the actor playing Mr Collins said there's only 2 ways to do him. Completely over the top campy or completely straight and serious where he doesn't realise he's the butt of the joke. He plays the second one beautifully. Also Charlotte and Lizzy are in different positions. Lizzy is young, beautiful, witty and talented enough. That can help overcome a lack of wealth. Charlotte is older, plain looking, sensible mind but not the fast and charming wit of Elizabeth. And has no real wealth. She doesn't have much to offer in regency marriage market terms. She makes and takes an opportunity.
He was humiliated by Lizzie's rejection and was having his feathers smoothed at the Lucas's. He proposed to Charlotte as a "so there" petty move. Also, there was a family quarrel, and instead of repairing it, he rubbed salt. Finally, Mary would not have suited him because the absolute last person a pompous ass wants to listen to is another pompous ass. IMHO
Here's one thing I noticed. When Darcy and Elizabeth are in the carriage after the wedding, it's the first time you see a proper toothy smile from Darcy.
I was watching episodes 1 and 2 with my mother and youngest sister on Sunday. My sister remarked that Mary doesn’t wear her glasses as often- if at all- during Mr. Collins’ visit. We think she was trying to look visually appealing to her cousin.
That’s an interesting observation. You can see why she would take them off in order to look more appealing. I wonder if this was direction given to Lucy Briers or if she herself chose to apply this character trait. Thanks for sharing 🙏
She wears her glasses only for reading, not permanently. She is not wearing them in episode 1 on the way home from church, and there is no Mr. Collins to impress. Of course, she is reading in many of the scenes she is in, so we often see her with glasses. At the Netherfield ball, she puts them on to read the notes when she sits down to the piano, and removes them immediately when she leaves the piano.
I'd never read nor seen P&P until my last yr in college & my roommates decided to do a marathon of it & Gilmore Girls before Finals Week. I loved it. The 1995 version. As I got chances to rewatch it, I truly grew to love watching Jennifer Ehle's subtle yet expressive facial expressions. They really make the scenes come to life. Eyebrows, eyerolls, sighs, smiling to herself, the puffed out cheeks. Utterly perfect!
“Unless you watch the series over and over…”. Yes, you’re one of us. I love catching these little moments in P&P. My favorite is seeing Mary preen while Mr Collins doesn’t even see her. I agree with Charlotte’s enjoyment of Lizzie vs Lady Catherine, but I didn’t see it as enjoyment until you pointed it out.
@TudorSmith Yes! The nuance and precision of her delivery gives dimension and realism to this small but important role. I looked her up, and is seems that she hasn’t done much acting since then (according to the internet). It’s a bit disappointing!
Sometimes I think Charlotte comes across as opportunistic and irritating but she's actually a very clever, observant character and she gets things dead on.
I always interpreted Darcys smiles and the walk with the candle and the dog as a man "at home" not only in his house but in his own self, being relieved having finally "come out" as belonging, as it were, to a woman who has been scorned and ridiculed by his friends for months. He has been honest, he is in the right, and can carry himself with dignity and ease. I don´t think it had as much to do with Caroline Bingley being put in her place, though it had a certain satisfaction for sure.
Yes he’s definitely more relaxed in his own home. And the visual exchanges that Darcy and Elizabeth have when she’s runs to help Georgina at the piano after Caroline’s remark about Wickham - those glances say so much about the relationship being repaired.
I agree that they should've included the scene where Lizzy told her father what Darcy had done to help their family but another scene I know I would've loved is when Mrs. Bennet found out about Lizzy's engagement. She had disliked Darcy throughout the show and now he was engaged to Lizzy and all was forgiven, since after all he had 10,000 pounds a year. She was such a silly woman I know it would've been so funny to see her reaction.
18:38 I don't think Darcy wasted one single though for Caroline. He was only thinking of Elizabeth, and I wish you discussed the following scene of Darcy at the fireplace. That's my most *FAVOURITE* moment in the whole movie. I'm not sure how they did it, but Darcy's face lights up, his eyes start sparkling: that's the moment when he realizes that he can propose Elizabeth again. So beautifully done, so subtle and still so powerful. Beautifully done 🥰😍❤
Yeah so much is provided when words can’t justify the emotions. It’s a good catch from you and I’m going to watch it again myself to see if I can spot it.
Collin Firth didn’t win an Oscar for nothing. “The King’s Speech” was yet another tour de force for this amazing actor. He never disappoints . His detailed, nuanced Darcy is one of the best performances by any actor -male or female-I’ve ever seen. His “Darcy” is one reason why we come back to watch ‘95 P&P over and over. When my daughters first watched it, I told them: “Watch Darcy’s eyes. Every time you see him, his eyes tell you everything you need to know about him.” Whoever said, “The eyes are the windows to the soul” must have been thinking about Collin Firth’s portrayal of Mr. Darcy. ❤️
@@carolanneposey5211 Collin Firth is not my favourite actor, in fact, I don't think he's very good as an actor. However, his facial expressions are brilliant. He's the best when he plays the embarrassed. Like when he meets Lizzy at the house after a swim, or in Nanny McPhee when he's called out about Mrs Quickly. And yes, in the King's Speech. I think he's naturally a shy person and plays shy people the best. He had a romantic relationship with Ehle during the shooting, that's why his eyes are so telling. He truly was in love, it's in his eyes ❤ No acting can replace true feelings.
One thing that both Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle do so well, and to me is a sign of superb acting, is how they vary their breathing. When we feel various emotions, our breathing changes -- we tense up, relax, stop breathing, take a deeper breath etc etc. In every key scene between these two you will see their breathing change in sync with the emotions flowing across their faces, and their pupils dilate and contract too. For example, when Darcy allows himself to gaze at Elizabeth, he tends to untense himself and therefore takes a deeper breath; it's such a natural, unconscious response and most viewers won't notice it, but it's a core part of what makes Firth's portrayal so impactful and believable for viewers.
Your videos are always so informative, insightful, and entertaining- thanks so much. This adaptation of Pride and Prejudice was my first introduction to Jane Austen, and I’ve long thought it was one of the best Austen adaptation ever made. However, your “Things you might have missed” videos help me recognize anew how well and thoughtfully made it is.
I’m pretty sure that the production team were considering more than just the text/script in this release. All those background actions and micro expressions give us so much more.
@@TudorSmith Maybe this is just a semantic quibble, but I think that many of the incidents you point out reinforce the text rather going beyond it (if that’s what you’re suggesting. For example, you point out instances where Mary shows interest in Mr. Collins, and the text tells us that she was indeed open to marrying him. In cases like that, the actors, directors, etc., were trying to show us something through the characters’ actions that was made explicit in the text.
@ 18:00 I don't think Darcy is smiling in triumph over Caroline as much as he is fully grasping the realization that he is in love with Elizabeth. He admits it to himself and he is happy in this acceptance of his feelings for her.
I just read through the comment section and this is the popular consensus with the women-posters. Isn't it intriguing that us ladies read that scene alternatively than you did?
I just found your channel and watched all the Pride & Prejudice videos, I loved them! Please do more of other period pieces!! I wore out my P&P vhs tapes, scratched the first DVDs, bought another set and recently bought the series on Amazon Prime, I've watched it more than 100 times.
Just two things. I think Darcy is impressed when he comes across Elizabeth at Netherfield but knows he mustn’t show it, so is surpressing a smile and I think the candlelit walk along the corridor at Pemberley is him thinking to himself that he’s starting to impress Lizzy and he’s chuffed with himself that they had such a good evening together. Nothing about Caroline at all.
In the corridor scene, I never felt that Darcy was giving much thought to Caroline Bingley at that point. I thought he was finally getting past his own prejudices/pride and admitting to himself how much he admired Elizabeth. He is clearly self-satisfied that he has been able to do so.
The scene with Darcy and Lizzy where they run into each other as she arrives...to me, that little micro expression from Darcy seems like he was trying not to smile. He was somewhat impressed I think.
Yes I agree! That's how I read it also, the way he straightened his lips was suppressing amusement that she had walked, and found it rather attractive but didn't want to let on.
I agree. But I also think this scene shows that Darcy has that sort of snobby side to him that he's been allowed to nurture his whole life. In a way he's laughing or smirking at Elizabeth's breach of decorum by walking "on foot?" to see her sister. If Caroline Bingley or Louisa Hurst had been in this scene, they would have been making the same sort of face, because they are also incredibly snobbish. But we begin to see, in this scene and in later ones such as the argument that Lizzie and Darcy have by the fireplace, that she is in effect calling him on this behavior, and forcing him to grow a little and stop taking himself so seriously, if he really wants to stand a chance of being with her. Darcy of course, also has an effect on Lizzie in the other direction, in essence calling her on her penchant for being taken in by the BS of someone like Wickham and being overly judgmental against Darcy.
Lost count of how many times I’ve watched this series, just love it. I think the reason in this version Lizzie doesn’t tell her father about Darcy’s involvement in Lydia’s wedding & paying off Wickhams debts is similar to the reasons she explains to Jane earlier - Mr Darcy has not given her leave to, and it involves his sister. Both Lizzie & Darcy would not want her father thinking she was only accepting his proposal for that reason also, she wants her family to accept his qualities without obligated gratitude. And I think it likely that information would not be held tightly by the Bennet family & be the talk of the village, giving Darcy great embarrassment! Enjoyable video, thank you!
At 5:36, I would like to submit my own interpretation of Darcy's reaction to Elizabeth's arrival at Netherfield. I think the suppressed emotion on his face is admiration not disdain for her rolling her eyes. He appreciates her energy and enjoyment of nature and, unlike Miss Bingley, is impressed and admiring of Elizabeth.
Sharp of you to see Mary's smiles at Mr. Collins and Lydia's background flirts with the soldiers. I do disagree on your last point. Darcy is not thinking of Miss Bingley, but savoring the moment when he shared warm eye contact with Elizabeth. Caroline doesn't affect him enough that he would relish taking her down a peg. Rather, he has been deeply rattled by Elizabeth and is rejoicing in their fleeting moment of mutual solicitude. My take on this is reinforced by the music that plays as Darcy strolls the gallery with his dog. It is a sweet and joyful instrumental version of the song Lizzie had been singing. The memory is fresh and warm and his smile is innocent and soft, not smug.
There is some fabulous blocking/background work whenever the Gardeners come to visit the family. They are constantly moving and interacting without breaking character which allows for beautiful natural movement for the lead characters and the camera
I interpreted Mr. Darcy's smiles walking down the long corridor, after Lizzie gazed at him in a kindly way from the piano, as him feeling a sense of encouragement from Lizzie. It looks to me as if he's contemplating a possible second proposal.
Seeing that D'arcy had greyhounds chasing after him in that scene immediately erased from my mine any negative connotations possibly connected with the man.
Indeed, I thought his demeanor shown in the film on the way to the inn to see Lizzy was precisely that he was planning to propose again, only to find her in tears & discover it's about Wickham.
I like the part when, after the first ball where Mr Bingly and and his party are first presented, the group are relaxing at Netherfield talking about how tedious the ball was. Caroline remarks that "Jane Bennet is a sweet girl, but the mother!" Bingly's response is a priceless expression giving us a glimpse into his open and honest temper as though he might try to excuse her if he could but.....no.....can't be done.😂
I noticed Mary enamored with Collins, and her anticipating getting asked to dance a long time ago, and was so impressed with her acting. I probably noticed it because I’m an actor 😂
This is my favorite adaptation & actors. I did notice many of the subtle facial moments but the biggest unseen item was Lydia pulling the hat off & playing/flirting with him about it. I will be watching for all of these next time I see the series. That will be very soon now! Thank you for the fun peeks, I'd have thought nothing of the 4th wall being broken either as they seemed so natural.
Mary's facial expressions when sisters Lydia and Kitty are fighting over a bonnet (the first example presented here) are to me remarkably similar to what one might have expected from Mr. Bennet had he been cast in her stead. Thank you, Tudor Smith, for this thoroughly enjoyable content.
The absolute perfection of this adaptation is summed up in the great casting, directing and the excellent job the actors did at bringing these wonderful characters to life. I honestly I believe it to be the best adaptation, hands down. Having watched it many times, I have recognized all the subtleties you mentioned except for Mary during the kerfuffle over the hat. I did interpret Mr. Darcy’s mind being on Lizzy rather than the conversation he just had with Bingly’s sister. Great video! I never tire of this mini series.
I had always interpreted the scene where Jane comes to fetch Mr. Collins for Mary as if Jane was trying to give Lizzy and Mr. Wickham some privacy, as Jane was aware at the time that Lizzy was interested in Mr. Wickham. It never occurred to me that the intention could have been for Mary to spend some private time with Mr. Collins. Wow. Thanks for the insight :)
I had to go back to the book to double check what Mr Bennet knew about Mr. Darcy's involvement in Lydia's situation. You are right. Lizzy tells him only after she convinces him of her feelings for Mr. Darcy, but she did tell him.
Ohhh! thank you so much for this new video❤ Regarding the 'Go, Lizzy, go' moment, I wonder if you caught that Lizzy sets her eyes on Charlotte for a moment, just to check if their frienship and mutual understanding is there still. It's like Elizabeth saying with her eyes: 'There I go, Charlotte, as I am' and she seems so comfortable with her friend being herself and confronting (one person does it, at last!) Lady Catherine. The book highlights the change in their relation when Charlotte got married, but Elizabeth is at last happy for her when she returns home. I also wonder why some crucial parts of the book were omitted, especially at the end. Not only Elizabeth talking to her father, but also the embarrassment of the two main lovers when the men return to Netherfield and Longbourn (each one looking at each other to find some evidence of love and not being able to get a second of their own), the conversation prior and post second proposal and the mind blowing moment of intimacy between Elizabeth and Darcy when she asks how he fell for her, which is one of my favourite parts since we can wrap altogether Darcy's behaviour and understand him completely regarding not only to Elizabeth, but to his social environment and his being that type of person who doesn't quite 'work' in society. (I must say that in Spanish -I'm from Spain- this last conversation of the book is translated with very informal pronouns (tú) for the time portrayed while the rest of the story is set with very formal pronouns (usted) so it makes a huge difference for Spanish readers about how they are intimate with each other.) I really think they wanted to make a six episode series and not seven, so they decided not to include all those things. It would have been really nice to have another episode including these details and the fact that Elizabeth manages to teach Darcy how to be less resentful and proud and to have a healthy relation with his aunt and not to get stuck in the past. Greetings from Spain! 😀
Yes chapters 60 and 61 in the book (life after the weddings etc) could have made another episode. The wish I’d let the clip of the ”go Lizzy go” bit run a little longer. The looks between Elizabeth and Charlotte are so revealing.
@@TudorSmith Now all have Aged.. May I say Gracefully.. And so We therefore can't have the rest of the story... Enacted by.. The commited actors as in this version ...😊 V. Sad... I too felt the same As others who have commented.. Would love to hear more about Jennifer as she's only American in the cast... It would not be the same if a less talented actor played the part..and as Colin himself pointed out she's got lot of dialogue. Emoting... And the spine of the story if i could say so... And ofcourse her bonding with colin helped immensely... I am sure about that too... But Jen... she's not there in any of videos talking about her experience.. And few in cast mention her... 😀 My observation...
I maintain that Lucy Briers is massively under rated in this role. There are little moments for her in the background peppered throughout the series. Adore her
I agree. She certainly knows her character. I laughed in the video on RUclips (Pride & Prejudice - Lasting Impressions) where she explains that she lied about playing the piano. But when it came to demonstrating it for Carl Davis at the audition, she thought she'd lost the part but was told that she had in fact won it. And particularly because she played the piano as badly as Mary would have 🤣 ruclips.net/video/usx2rt7TUac/видео.htmlsi=ai62aXawM4VmCbvy&t=44
I enjoyed this video thank you Tudor. You've covered a lot in this video but have not mentioned Adrian Lukis much. I think his subtle and comedic performance is a little underrated. 1. I particularly like the scene where Wickham and Lizzy have that underhand duel behind a mask of politeness and fraternity in which Lizzy gives him the one final slap down to end the discussion of what really happened between him and the Darcy family. It's so cheeky of Lizzy to toy with him like a cat with a mouse with that tease about how Darcy must have been in town for a wedding.... She pauses deliberately to watch him start and then squirm, which Adrian delivers with masterfully understated acting. I don't think that was in the book, it's just really good screenplay? Then at the end of that conversation I love his walk of agony and shame which he communicates with his back to us, trying to puff himself up while dying inside complete with that toss of his head like a suppressed aaaaahhhh! 2. His reaction to Lizzy's earlier question "do you know Colonel Fitzwilliam" is great too. As is his face blanching with fear when he and Darcy bump into each other in Merryton. 3. I also like Colonel Forster's look of unbridled lust at Lizzy while she is dancing with Mr. Darcy. It's a little in the foreground to Mr. Collins' ridiculous drool so might be missed for that reason. There are other admiring glances to Lizzy in this sequence too. 4. I love Mr. Bennett's eyeroll in reaction to Wickham's fatuous "as the French would have it, aurevoir!" 5. The beautifully synchronized acting by the cast playing Maria, Mr. Collins and Charlotte at the parsonage with Lizzy and Col Fitzwilliam chatting in the foreground. They are in such awe of Mr. Darcy and are all hanging on his every word and gesture. Mr. Darcy's attention is so riveted on Lizzy that the way he ignores them so completely is hilarious! 6. Lucy Scott's finest turn as Charlotte I think is when she invites Lizzy to visit her. She communicates so much so subtly and so perfectly in character of her sudden fear as the reality of her new situation bites and she needs the support of her friend at her side. I don't agree that Lydia's fall is unscripted because, while I think Nadia's whole performance is brilliant throughout, would she have been able to ad lib so perfectly in character with that language so appropriate for the time? It wasn't a phrase that rolls of the tongue today so I think everyone just acted really well.
Benjamin Whitrow did.a wonderful job with his facial expressions bringing out the charming narcissist character of Austen's Mr. Bennett. In other adaptations he comes across as kindly and loving which is not the way Austen wrote him. Whitrow frequently smirks at his wife or winks at Lizzy, completely changing the feeling of what he is saying. The opening scene is a good example, what he says sounds serious but the subtle smirk tells you he is not serious.
As far as I remember, Darcy's help in bringing about Lydia's marriage to Wickham was supposed to be a secret. As Lydia mentioned It herself while visiting her family just afterwards, and when Lizzy's aunt wrote to her that Mr Gardiner was to get all the credits for arranging things. So I think it makes sense that Lizzy does not mention it to her father. Since she respects Darcy's wish not to have it mentioned. Or at least that's how I've always felt about it... No matter how it was meant to be, this is still by far my favourite adaptation of Jane Austen's book. So many little details make it a joy to watch. Which reminds me I shoud do so again very soon. And I'll probably notice all the things I previously missed until you told us about them 🙂
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
Pride & Prejudice 1995 is absolutely my favorite version! Once you see Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy, there can be no other.
And Jennifer Ehle.
And the curly haired sweetheart who portrayed Mr Bing.
This is such a good description of the script but also the incomparable talent of the cast. Also the interpretation of the eye roll as a classic response to one of those “male lines” that lizzie sees through. This is a type of anachronism that is actually so in line with Austen and the genius and honesty of her writing way back when!
💯 truth!
@@carolhama4156Oh yes Jennifer Ehle. Her eyes are so so beautiful 🥺. Although I'm a big fan of Colin Firth, the most outstanding performance in this adaption belongs to her.
@@lananhvu3488My favorite performances are Jennifer Ehle and David Bamber as Mr.Collins
For me, the music score in the corridor scene tells what was in Darcy's mind was Elizabeth. His smile was a mix of assurance and relief. When he proposed to Lizzy in episode 3, he confessed that he has struggled to repress his affection for her because her family circumstance does not match his. Then we know Lizzy turned him down brutally........but love does not stop just because we are being rejected! So when Darcy saw Lizzy's instantaneous response to look after Georgianna, whom he shields so closely, he knew he is right about this girl. And their exchange of gaze seconds after that gives Darcy the hope of Lizzy's change of mind. Caroline's intention to embarrass Lizzy backfired on her. Darcy took the opportunity to publicly reveal his adoration for Lizzy, which was probably another thing that he had been struggling over. So there we have a man walking in the corridor, feeling relieved and hopeful. And the song Lizzy sang is 'Voi Che Sapete' (You Know What Love Is) from The Marriage of Figaro. I am not a professional. These are just my own interpretations as a faithful supporter of the '95 version. Thank you for the video as always.
I love it when folk offer up their take on this wonderful story. I’m pretty sure you’re right and you make the point so well. I wish I could go back and edit my video ha ha, because now I’m inclined to agree and it makes such good sense when we see his facial expressions, which do seem to confirm everything. Thank you for sharing 🙏
I always thought at that corridor moment he started to realise he might have a chance with Lizzy after all.
I agree; Darcy's thoughts of Caroline and her insults disappeared as he stepped into the corridor.
And then the next day he is particular in what he wears before riding into Lambton probably feeling confident enough to propose to her again.
Well said. I absolutely agree.
One of the true joys of my life is watching great acting. This greatest production of "Pride And Prejudice" is an oasis in the desert for me...watching these gifted people bring this great story to life, with intelligence, grace, and subtlety and complexity...I love it, in part because you have to truly pay attention to it to make sure you miss nothing that goes on, from foreground to background...so intelligently and intuitively done. It is a treasure, a true one. I'm so pleased that so many others agree, and appreciate this superb production so well. No other can come close to it.
Absolutely agree! This is my favourite, watched it and read the novel so many times.
I never took Darcy’s reaction of Lizzie being on foot as negative. I took it more as a moment of being impressed, but slightly surprised at feeling impressed.
My favorite is Lizzy standing next to Georgiana playing the piano. She looks directly at Darcy with the most loving gaze while letting her arms drop to her sides in an absolutely open stance, communicating to him, "I am here, totally, with you and for you in love." This moment is prefaced by her comment to Georgiana about her brother when looking directly at Darcy, she says, "And you know he is never wrong," which grabs his attention in a very direct and responsive way. The whole film is a masterpiece of subtle, yet unmistakably conveyed human connection.
It's a beautiful scene.
Acceptance of
Lizz into family mould.. As
Georgiana's sister...
D stands vindicated... Hmm
Super choice of
Darcy nd Liz... Beyond words and
I can't comprehend.. More
I had always seen Lydia's trip on the carriage step as emphasising that, even with the "dignity" of being a newly-married woman, she was still impulsive, careless and unladylike.
Mr Collins got far more lucky than he deserved when he married Charlotte. Also, while she’s supposed to be plain, the actress is sooo classically beautiful.
I totally agree!
I would rather have Lizzie in dirty boots than a Venus who spends all her time in the garden !
95 pride and prejudice is my favorite version ❤ I'm a huge fan. Thank you for this video. I didn't know about Darcys thumb rub until you pointed it out😊
Glad you enjoyed it!
1995 P&P is my hands down favorite adaptation, because there are so many subtle acting moments in it that honor what you read it in the book. In gloriously subtle ways at times, you see the characters come to life, which is pure magic to me.
I love paying attention to the background characters every time I rewatch it- one of my personal favourites is when Darcy is focusing on Lizzy and Colonel Fitzwilliam's conversation at Hunsford in episode 3 whilst Mr Collins is rambling on to him. Darcy mainly ignores him to stare at Lizzy but does occasionally give a nod of acknowledgement when Charlotte speaks. A small but funny moment!
I love this adaptation. I watch it over and over. I feel a bit of a difference in interpretation of the scene in episode one where Darcy has caught Lizzie having walked to Netherfield. Where you said he was thinking “headstrong, obstinate girl”, I always feel he’s trying not to smile. I feel he’s chagrined because he should find it outrageous by the standards of the time, but he finds her nature charming despite himself. Great video ❤
Funny how we see different things right? And that in itself spins the story in separate ways for each and every one of us.
Agreed! Great observation :)
I agree. He looks like he is trying so hard not to like her tenacity
I think the meeting goes farther than that. I think he is shocked that someone he knows (albeit slightly) would do such a thing. And yet when he challenges her, she retains good manners and forces him to do the same. Elizabeth 1- Darcy 0.
This is great! I've just watched the 1995 version for the 100th time, clearly my favourite. The cast are perfect in this one.
100th time. That’s an achievement 🏆 👍
The expression on Mr Darcy's face as Lady C. de B. starts talking of how proficient she (and Anne) would have been if she had ever learnt to play the piano... almost as if feels acutely not how painful it is to leave Rosings, but to have relations 'of whom' he could be ashamed.
And the way he rolls his eyes when his future mom-in-law informs Bingley and him that her youngest daughter has been recently married...priceless!
God, I love 1995 adaptation. It was a sort of first crush and is always a fond memory
Yeah Colin’s micro expressions tell us so more to Darcy’s character don’t they. It’s as if he has a mischievous side that society daren’t allow him to display!
I actually think the slight smile and look upon Mr. Darcy's face does not have anything to do with Caroline Bingley as he walks the hallway after they have all retired, but the realization that Elizabeth returned his loving gaze and that her heart has also changed. It is the hope and cautious optimism of what might be. I believe this continues the next morning when we see him fussing over what to wear prior to him calling on her, which I believe was to be the second proposal but was undermined by the terrible news from home that sent Elizabeth back home abruptly. Great videos by the way! I'm thoroughly enjoying watching them. This BBC version of Pride and Prejudice is a masterpiece, and I cannot watch any other version except for this one.
why on earth woud he be thiking of Caroline Bingley when his heart is full of Elizabeth
I couldn't agree more. He is reliving the warm and encouraging moments they shared and how kind Elizabeth was to his sister. Caroline Bingley and her efforts to insult Elizabeth are the furthest things from his mind.
I agree, the actors inhabit the characters so perfectly and believably. Any other version seems so contrived.
I have always thought the smiling Mr. Darcy does as he walks down the hall with his dogs is due to a hopeful pondering of "the look" he shared with Lizzy earlier at the piano, since the accompaniment to the Mozart song she sang is the soundtrack in this scene.
I thought this as well.
The 1995 version of Pride and Prejudice is practically perfect! I watch it often.
It is. So much effort was put into it. Scenes being dressed. Costumes. The lot 👍
If you’ll pardon a line from Mary Poppins, the 1995 P&P is “practically perfect in every way.”☺️
Me, too! I do not like the version with Matthew Rhys. ..all THEY do is rattle off their lines as fast as they can and Darcy was poorly cast. He should have had a more mature look and feel to him. In the 1995 version with Colin Firth the characters are so well cast and they act so well together!
Well, I think that would be true of ANY period drama.@@TudorSmith
Thank you, many interesting points. One comment: About your last point, (Lizzy not telling her father about Darcy's generosity) - in the book too, she convinces her father that she loves Darcy and that he is worthy of love, and obtains his consent and approval, without telling him about it! Only after he relaxes and agrees wholeheartedly to the marriage, she adds the information about Darcy's saving Lydia. I've often wondered why she didn't use that argument to obtain her father's approval - perhaps she didn't want him to think she was accepting Darcy out of gratitude alone.
One thing I didn’t notice on first watching, but thought was hilarious when I did - When they were visiting Lady Catherine, there was a scene with Lizzy talking to Colonel Fitzwilliam. Darcy comes over to speak to them. On re-watching, I realised that although the focus was on Lizzy and Colonel Fitzwilliam, in the background Mr Collins is busy talking to Darcy. Darcy just gets up and walks off when Mr Collins is mid-sentence like he’s not even there 😅
Oh yes. He seems to ignore Collins or even walk away from him in mid sentence sometimes
Its
Ribtickling
This version is THE gold standard for all “Pride & Prejudice!”
I agree. It is so beautifully done.
Edit: I see a bunch of people have already commented on this but I'll leave mine just for the mention of "Voi Che Sapete" if anyone didn't know the song and was wondering what it was. It's a fun aria to sing and very accessible for beginning sopranos.
18:32 I don't think Darcy is thinking of Caroline at all here. He seems to be thinking of Lizzy and replaying in his mind events from earlier that evening that made him realize she loves him back, such as her being protective of his sister and the looks she was giving him. A big clue as to the direction of Darcy's thoughts is in "Voi Che Sapete" playing in the background - the same aria Lizzy was singing earlier.
Yeah, there’s a little bit of “oh snap! Did I just say that out loud!? Heck yeah I did!” In his face as he’s walking 😂
I own this on DVD still and re-watch every few months. I appreciate others are equally obsessed 💚
The 1995 version is my favorite. It is almost completely verbatim from the novel. I think there is only one scene from the novel that is missing in the movie. The acting, costuming, set, music, and cinemetography are great. I've watched the DVD dozens of times.
I think Jane Austen herself would be pleased with this version!
The very first time I was watching the 3rd episode of the 1995 P&P, I remember being moved by the little scene where Charlotte Lucas and Elizabeth are talking about the approaching wedding of Charlotte and Mr Collins and their leaving for Kent. Lucy Scott conveys Charlotte's sadness to leave her beloved friend and the familiar surroundings and her anxiousness in front of the unknown she is about to encounter, very subtly, but it is all there for the viewer to see and hear within those few seconds. What a touching scene! I also savour the actress's superb diction.
Lucy Scott plays the role so well.
It' s my absolutely favourite version of Pride and Prejudice. Best screenplay, finest actors, best suitable music, indeed. Thank you for sharing your interesting ideas and feelings with us❤.
Thank you for watching 🙏
@@TudorSmith 👏🙋♀️
I love how we are many to rewatch this unique series again and again and watch it even more intensely and never get tired of it .
It had a habit of drawing us in. I know for my part I often use the P&P dialogue in my everyday speech 🤣 Happy thought indeed!
I lost count of the number of times I have watched P&P. Easily 40…50…? It still stands as my favorite film by one of my favorite authors. Each actor was brilliantly chosen and so believable in their role. I love all the little things you notice when rewatching it. Thank you for the lovely video.
The 1995 adaption is overall terrific! Observe that not only Charlotte looks friendly at Lizzy in that scene. Also Lizzy while talking to Lady Catherine has this quick glimpse to her friend Charlotte as if she is talking with her eyes with Charlotte like only best friends can. (and probably that quick glimpse meant "OMG, this Lady is really as awkward as I expected" 😂) Surely it took Lizzy a little while after Charlotte left Meryton to " digest" that situation of Charlotte accepting Mr. Collins. But the series has that lovely scene when they first meet again in Hunsford with their greeting "I am happy to see you" - "and I you" ... which shows that their friendship is just as close as ever (again) and you can see their relief about that at the same time.
I just love how Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth "speak" with their facial expressions, they say so much more with their faces than with their words.
This will always be my favourite P&P adaptation❤🥰
They do work it so well.
My favorite little subtle bit is the scene where Darcy comes upon Elizabeth as she’s just read her letter. He sits her down, and gently takes hold of her arm and strokes it in an very gentle but unconscious manner to give her comfort. It’s like he just can’t help himself when she’s in such distress.
A lovely moment isn’t it? Darcy shows real care and emotion for Lizzy
Colin withdraws it too
Aftr maybe feeling
He's given too much on his feelings for her.. Perhaps..
As unmarried people were not supposed to hold hands... Etc..
I love the scene where Elizabeth visits Charlotte and they have that thinly veiled conversation about how Charlotte manipulates Mr Collins into spending as little time as possible in her company. I love the demeanour of both actors conveying their shared humour
It’s a lovely scene. Prior to this Charlotte was hoping Elizabeth would visit her (often?) in Kent and then when they do meet, we see that Charlotte has taken full control of the situation 👍
What do you mean IF you watch it a few times. Who can only watch it once.
Ah…good point 🤣
I’ve watched this so many times! It’s been a few years, and now I have to watch it again! This is by far the best Pride and Prejudice, and, dare I say, I prefer it over the novel, but that could be after having it pop up in multiple lit classes in university. This feels romantic. The story never felt nearly so romantic. The actors really make this series!
Amazing that 67k have viewed your video in 4 days. Just shows the amazing power of this adaptation to still hold our attention 28 years after it was first broadcast. A classic without a doubt.
Yes I’m blown away at the response to this video. Clearly P&P is a firm favourite still after all these years. I’m very grateful people have tuned in to watch too 👍
I have watched this wonderful series numerous times and never get tired of it. I agree that there is a subtle subplot happening where Mary is rather hopeful of attracting Mr Collins interest. I think Lucy Briers was quite wonderful as Mary and always enjoy watching her. I also think this version is vastly superior to the other versions of Pride and Prejudice.
The scene with Darcy walking through the hallway doesn't take place immediately after his triumphant admission to Caroline Bingley, despite it being the next scene. It is after the guests have left and the house is dark, the lights are extinguished, and if you look closely in the next scene when he's by the fireplace dreaming of Lizzie, he's in the very same room he was in earlier with the Bingleys. So in this sequence through the corridor and by the fireplace, he only has Elizabeth on his mind and all his smiles are for her.
Yep I realise that now 👍
My favourite scenes are where Darcy looks at Lizzie as she turns the pages for Georgiana as she plays the piano, and my favourite of all is Colin Firth's sublime acting when he encounters Lizzie at Pemberley. He is so shocked, nervously trying to make conversation. He's smitten!
In my opinion the best adaptation of the book ever. I have it on DVD and look at it often.
In my opinion, Mr. Darcy is thinking about Lizzy as he's walking down the corridor...this is when he realizes he's got it in the bag. Darcy's new confidence regarding the direction of the relationship with Lizzy is what fueled the terse exchange with Caroline. Thank you, Mr. Smith!
Yes I see it now.
1995 BBC TV version is until now the very best, closest to the book and excellent made in every way. I just love this series.
This is one of my favorite things to watch ever, and one of the things I love and value so much about this - and the 1995 Persuasion as well - is the subtlety of the acting. The twitch of an eyebrow, the slight pursing of the lips, it is so subtle and you have to pay attention! I think no one could have done better than Jennifer Ehle at Lizzie.
I agree. The actors all got the facial “give aways” down to a fine art and make the productions all that much better for it 👍
1995 P&P is the best version, hands-down. I will die on this hill.
I always thought that Lydia's trip was deliberate as they used it as a metaphor for her and her family's impending downfall and shame. Andrew Davis mentions in an interview that he wishes they had given Darcy and Lizzie more time to talk after the second marriage proposal "I was in the middle before I knew that I had begun" would have been perfect. Confession time I watch this masterpiece at least once a month it is perfection. Nice to know that others still appreciate this wonderful adaptation. Very enjoyable and interesting video as ever. Keep up the good work.
I hadn’t considered that trip as being a metaphor. Perhaps I don’t go deep enough 🤣
I interpreted the scene in the garden, where Jane runs out to beg Mr Collins go in to answer Mary’s concerns, was showing Jane’s desire to give Lizzie some time alone with Wickham and without Mr Collins around.
Yes someone else has suggested that too!
Same.
I agree with all, except your interpretation of Darcy's emotions and mindset when Lizzy arrives to Bingley's house on foot to check on Jane. I don't think he at all was thinking "obstinate,, headstrong girl." I've never seen his mouth making a grimace there, but trying his best to hold back a smirk, a smile of adoration. She's so completely opposite of every woman he's ever known and he's completely enamored with her. I think it was him trying not to chuckle at his admiration for her independence. In the moment, he's always so pleased with what he sees in her, it's not until he takes a minute to compose himself that he goes through the process of convincing himself how wrong she is.
This is how I interpret his expression too, it's almost like he's suppressing a laugh
Yep I agree with you. He's trying to hide his delight and amusement. If you know the direction he had for this scene he's meant to be feeling super attracted to her and part of that attraction I think is (reluctantly) admiring her independence. But due to Lizzie's prejudice towards him she doesn't pick up on it and takes his reaction as him criticising her or being a snob again so she rolls her eyes.
I agree, I think Darcy is amused and trying to hold back his growing feelings.
And if you think about it, in the book, he had been in company with her, either dining or dancing, at least five times before he sees her here. That's way more time than Hollywood gives people to get together! He's pretty much in love with her already by this time, and here he finds her both admirable and adorable!
This series is perfection. I binge watch this every year or so with no interruptions.
I also binge watch 😂
Really liked this review. It brought my heart some joy to see another person watch this series with as much care and interest as I did. Amazingly (after having watched the series in 1995 and again this last week, over and over again) I did see all the subtle expressions and fine acting as you noted here, except the scene where Lydia is flirting with Denny in the background, as Lizzy and Wickam walk in the foreground. Thanks for pointing that out.
By the way, Darcy's warm glowing smile while Lizzy played the piano in Pemberly, is my MOST FAVORITE scene of the entire series! :)
One of my favorite hidden moments is when Darcy helps Lizzie out of the carriage. As he is walking away, you can see him flex the hand that he had just used to help her get out of the carriage, such a sweet little detail.
I think you entirely missed what's actually happening with Darcy's expression as he walks down the corridor, candle in hand. He is not "savoring the victory" over Caroline; he has ceased to think of her altogether. His mind is on Elizabeth, and we know this because of the music cue underneath: it is the same song we just heard her sing. The look of satisfaction on his face is because he has decided to propose a second time, and, after the intimate gazes exchanged between the two of them that evening, he feels happy and confident that this time she will accept.
Well observed. I missed that entirely. The music is the give away eh?
I agree, except for the conclusion that Darcy has made a decision to ask again. I believe he is hopeful because the evening went well, but doubting still - there is abvious anxiety there, especially when he is leaning over the mantelpiece. Can he hope? That is what he is wondering. Importantly, the shot used in the 'flashback' is a DIFFERENT one than previous, and Lizzy's face is more ambiguous. We saw her feelings, but this is Darcy point of view, and he is unsure. Great editing
I agree. Taking into consideration the time period this is set, I think Darcy gets far more satisfaction from the connection between he and Lizzy over the piano versus any sort of win over Miss Bingley. A man of Darcy’s stature would never have considered a woman a suitable opponent in that male dominated society, even if she was the sister of his friend with her own fortune. IMHO I think he probably would have felt chagrined at the outburst against Miss Bingley if he stopped to consider it, since etiquette was everything at that time (“a more gentleman-like manner”). But his mind was filled with thoughts of Lizzy, so I doubt he gave it a second thought.
I think you are right. I think Darcy is daring to hope again.
Absolutely he has dared to hope she is feeling the same way about him and something has changed. He's savouring the memory of her beautiful smile that says so many things and confirms they both share something that the others are unaware of. The music is the same as that which she sang to. He has no interest in Caroline and I doubt he's even thinking of her at that point.
I’m a simple girl, I see ‘95 Pride & Prejudice and I click.
I must say, I was not disappointed. And I did the same thing- I pretended Lizzy told Mr Bennett about Darcy’s activities to save their family.
I’m glad you weren’t disappointed and glad you did the click 👍
This is my favorite version of Pride And Prejudice. I didn't like the Keira Knightley version...the characters weren't developed enough for my liking and they rushed through a lot of the soliloquies that really robbed the scene's emotions. I have watched this series at least seven or eight times and have seen the items you've examined but never put them into words. These small actions just made the film all the richer to me. Thanks for sharing this...I loved it!
I’ve always thought the dialogue was rushed in the 2005 version. As if the characters were not given enough time to think before they spoke!
Exactly! @@TudorSmith
I have a serious problem I can't stop watching , I was obsessed by the book for years ,now it is a vid probably have to go for some kind of therapy
I've tried many times to watch the 2005 version but I find it such a shallow version of the book that i can never finish it. It's especially repulsive since I've watched the 1995 version and read the book the dozens of times. Good grief, I even have the audiobook, recorded by Karen Savage, downloaded to listen to when I'm doing other things like cooking, cleaning or crocheting.
My favorite version too. It’s 5 hours long, I think, so it can really develop the story.
This is the ONLY production that gave the source material justice. Cast couldnt be more perfect. I have heavy bias on this and im ok with that.
My favourite nuance of the scene with Lydia's not-so-graceful entering the carriage is when she says "funny if I should fall and break my head", and Kitty peevishly replies in a low voice "I wish you would"😄 this in itself is quite hilarious, and then we get Mr Bennet's look at Kitty, which is just priceless. I noticed this exchange somewhere around my 50th viewing of the series (🤭) , probably because I originally watched a translated version that missed it, and since then it has been one of my top favourite background moments of P&P
This production is so rich in detail❤I don't know how people can fail to appreciate this fact and put the 2005 version higher. The modern movie feels 2-dimensional and totally lacking that quiet intelligent humour of Jane Austen's novel which Andrew Davies highlighted so well (in fact, often greatly added to😊) in his genious screenplay
Yes it’s a delight watching Kitty’s response and then Mr. Bennet’s reaction to it! Such subtle background acting but it completes the scene!
In the scene where Darcy walks down the long corridor, I always thought he was contemplating the following day, going to renew his relationship with Lizzie. That he has made up his mind to marry her, and that those thoughts are showing on his face.
Think it's a different time to when he snaps at Caroline. I agree possibly next morning or a few hours later. Not when he's just left the room.
One little detail I noticed was the role of flowers in the series. There was a whole tradition of the "language of flowers" in the 19th century, with people in essence sending coded messages by the sort of flowers they presented. In the scene where Mr. Collins proposes to Elizabeth, she is arranging a vase of *sea holly* which is a flower a bit like a thistle, with prickly leaves. You couldn't have found a more appropriate flower to illustrate the uncomfortable situation which unfolds.
Yes I’d read that somewhere once. It’s an interesting observation too 👍
Nice catch on the sea holly. That escaped my notice.
Darcy's reaction to seeing that Lizzie walked - I saw that as him holding back a grin - that he admired her fierceness.
The scene where Darcy is walking down the corridor isn’t about his put down of Miss Bingley, huis head is too full of Elizabeth to linger on that conversation, no that triumphant look is a remembrance of the evening when he’s made a massive break through with Lizzie,he’s savouring all of what happened, even Miss Darcey noticed the looks being passed between the two of them whilst she was playing the piano and Mr and Mrs Gardener were by the end of this visit convinced there was something going on with Lizzie and Darcey. It’s a very well written book with lots of undercurrents.
Still watch the 1995 on repeat best version ever 🎉
It’s always worth rewatching 👍 📺
This serial is nothing but perfection…i have watched it more than 15 times and more to com as its my yearly routine
The scene when Elizabeth is playing the pianoforte and signing shows something that Colin Firth does superbly--he is literally smoldering while watching and listening. He conveys the depth of Darcy's feelings with that look in a way that no one else can do.
Liz's looks too
She reciprocates so well.. 😆😊
He is indeed an excellent smolderer.
I do think you misinterpret Darcy's pleasure as he retires down the hallway. Caroline Bingley does not exist for him. He is dismissive of her when she is in his presence. He would give her not a moment's thought when she is absent. It is always Caroline and never Darcy who endeavors to solicit conversation between them. Notice he never looks for her reaction when he refutes her because he is not looking to score points either with her or against her. He is reflecting on Elizabeth. If I recall the preceding scene correctly, Lizzie gave Darcy her sweetest warmest smile with direct eye contact as she rescued Georgiana at the piano. He is savoring that smile and almost daring to hope despite his reservations. If nothing else, he is rejoicing in her adroit compassion for the sister whom he dearly loves. His thoughts are nearly always on Elizabeth or he never would have felt himself driven to proposal.
I think you’re right 👍
I agree with you on that
Yes. He is rejoicing that Elizabeth’s swift block of trauma to Georgiana was both fueled by her growing affection for her and at once followed by her quiet reassuring smile to Darcy that she would deflect any potential harm to the sweet girl. And, I dare say, to him.
1995 is the most faithful version ever. I regret sometimes that they didn't show Mrs. Bennett getting the news of Elizabeth's betrothal, but we've seen for 5 hours how she'll react, so... Only a few lines are added, such as Mr. Bennett saying that Darcy might not turn out to be a blackguard just because he's rich, and those are meant to speed things along, not dumb them down.
Lady Catherine in the Olivier version was a Scooby-Doo villain, and I don't know wtf was happening with the Keira version: Changing the dialogue all willy-nilly, with no sense of the beauty, irony and gossipiness of Austen's novel, and Longbourne looks like a pig's barn! Mr. Bennett is a gentleman, not a mud farmer!
Exactly that. The 2005 version doesn’t depict a gentleman and a gentleman’s home. Funny how they thought (as you say) portraying the essence of a pig farmer!
@@TudorSmith Thank you, sir. I omitted to say how much I enjoy your posts. 😊
The 2005 version had too many scenes that were so far off from what Jane Austen had written -- I'll highlight just two: 1) Georgiana being vivacious and talkative upon meeting Lizzy, and 2) Lizzy and Darcy making out on a stone table outdoors, she in night clothes and he barefoot. Couldn't take this version serious with this adaptation.
In a post to another video, I said that the 2005 version was high Romantic, which Austen was not. That version is the P&P story as told by Emily Brontë!
I'm so glad I found this video! I read Pride and Prejudice (adapted for young readers) when I was in my mid-teens, and loved it so much I read it through several times over the years. I usually resist watching film adaptations of books that I've read because so often they change the storyline to such an extent that I feel like I'm watching something completely different, but for some reason I decided to watch this miniseries back when it first came out. The moment when Lizzy helps Miss Darcy at the pianoforte ("I'm neglecting you! How can you play without someone to turn the pages?") to cover her distress at hearing Miss Bingley say something about Wickham was a real turning point for me. Up to that point, I really disliked Mr. Darcy, but the way he looked at Lizzy in that moment, I absolutely fell in love with him, or maybe with Colin Firth. It's probably my strongest memory out of many lovely moments from the miniseries.
It’s a touching moment for sure. I’ve often thought Colin Firth gives us many subtle hints into Darcy’s gentle side throughout the 6 episodes 👍
Love your videos. Another small "tick" is when Lizzy is returning to the Inn where she is staying, the maid calls to her from the upstairs window saying that Mr. Darcy is waiting for her, and the TINY beginning of a smile at the corner of her mouth when she hears he is there. It's almost imperceptible. Another is the way Darcy's look is so intense at Lizzy while she climbs into the carriage as she and her aunt and uncle are leaving Pemberle. Then, as they drive away, she turns to look back at Darcy standing with one leg bent staring at her as they leave. Those intense looks are priceless. Another great tiny moment is the little "giggle" Charlotte emits when Lizzy relates to her the comment she overheard Darcy making about her. LOVE all those scenes. So well done.
Hmm….I disagree. Darcy’s expression is not of annoyance when they meet in the garden when Lizzie has come to visit her sister. I think Darcy is suppressing a laugh or smile & some admiration as he asks Lizzie “on foot?” He can see her muddy dress and lack of care towards social norms as to walking alone to Netherfield in her determination to visit Jane. Watch his eyes - they’re dancing. She sees him trying to suppress a laugh at her
and that’s why she rolls her eyes. He later defends her to Miss Bingley, saying that her eyes “were brightened by the exercise.”
I agree. I also thought Darcy was trying to suppress a laugh.
I also think he found it amusing and confusing that a woman was so strong in her intentions…and feel this intrigued him…
Correct.
Honestly, all of this is just good acting. These are things that we all appreciate about this version and one of the things makes 1995 far superior to the other versions. But these nuances make us believe each character is the definitive character.
I totally agree, he was about to laugh and suppressed it. That’s why she rolled her eyes!😂
Interesting comments! Mr. Darcy shows he's both taken aback and intrigued by the lovely Miss Elizabeth ❤
I think Charlotte knows much more than she lets on. She’s not silly and ignorant as some would let us believe. She’s fully aware of all of her friends strengths and faults as well as those of her family, and her chosen husband. She makes what she considers to be the wisest choice with the options she has available to her. The movie can sometimes frustrate us as to why on earth she would willingly go along with Mr. Collins. She’s too good for him by far. But once you’ve read the book, you understand better the actual situation she found herself in, and exactly how little her family had. She did her duty to her family as she saw it. I see her to be just as wise as Lizzy. Perhaps more so, from the very beginning. She knew what would happen, and she made the sacrifice to be simply “content” rather than deliriously in love and blindingly happy. You see that desperation in her voice, expression, and clasping of the hands to Lizzy when she admits she will miss her after she leaves and moves to her husbands house. She knows she’s leaving her whole world behind, and for whom, and it terrifies her. But her choice has been made and she has to live with it.
I do agree however that I think everyone who’s ever read the book or seen the movie (any of the versions) would probably be frustrated as to why the author didn’t just put Mr. Collins with Mary. It would have suited them so much better. But Mr. Collins was vain. He wanted a beautiful wife. He also needed someone extremely competent to please Lady Catherine. And the story would not have progressed in the same way if Lizzy had not felt the need to visit her friend after she moved away.
Yes. I saw the mini series first, then read the book. The actress playing Charlotte is young and good looking. So the necessity she refers to is less obvious. But as you say, the book makes it clear.
Also, while I enjoy Mr Collins for being absurd in the adaptation, he isn't as bad in the book. He was worse on the screen to be more entertaining.
@joannageorge7305 David Bamber the actor playing Mr Collins said there's only 2 ways to do him. Completely over the top campy or completely straight and serious where he doesn't realise he's the butt of the joke.
He plays the second one beautifully.
Also Charlotte and Lizzy are in different positions. Lizzy is young, beautiful, witty and talented enough. That can help overcome a lack of wealth.
Charlotte is older, plain looking, sensible mind but not the fast and charming wit of Elizabeth. And has no real wealth. She doesn't have much to offer in regency marriage market terms. She makes and takes an opportunity.
@@joannageorge7305 Oh Mr Collins is just as bad if not worse in the book - you have to read Jane Austen's subtilities in describing character.
He was humiliated by Lizzie's rejection and was having his feathers smoothed at the Lucas's. He proposed to Charlotte as a "so there" petty move. Also, there was a family quarrel, and instead of repairing it, he rubbed salt. Finally, Mary would not have suited him because the absolute last person a pompous ass wants to listen to is another pompous ass. IMHO
Here's one thing I noticed. When Darcy and Elizabeth are in the carriage after the wedding, it's the first time you see a proper toothy smile from Darcy.
His anticipation at finally ketting to kiss Lizzy? 😂
I was watching episodes 1 and 2 with my mother and youngest sister on Sunday. My sister remarked that Mary doesn’t wear her glasses as often- if at all- during Mr. Collins’ visit.
We think she was trying to look visually appealing to her cousin.
That’s an interesting observation. You can see why she would take them off in order to look more appealing. I wonder if this was direction given to Lucy Briers or if she herself chose to apply this character trait.
Thanks for sharing 🙏
She wears her glasses only for reading, not permanently. She is not wearing them in episode 1 on the way home from church, and there is no Mr. Collins to impress. Of course, she is reading in many of the scenes she is in, so we often see her with glasses. At the Netherfield ball, she puts them on to read the notes when she sits down to the piano, and removes them immediately when she leaves the piano.
I'd never read nor seen P&P until my last yr in college & my roommates decided to do a marathon of it & Gilmore Girls before Finals Week. I loved it. The 1995 version. As I got chances to rewatch it, I truly grew to love watching Jennifer Ehle's subtle yet expressive facial expressions. They really make the scenes come to life. Eyebrows, eyerolls, sighs, smiling to herself, the puffed out cheeks. Utterly perfect!
“Unless you watch the series over and over…”. Yes, you’re one of us. I love catching these little moments in P&P. My favorite is seeing Mary preen while Mr Collins doesn’t even see her. I agree with Charlotte’s enjoyment of Lizzie vs Lady Catherine, but I didn’t see it as enjoyment until you pointed it out.
The actress who plays Charlotte is so incredible. She totally captures the character.
She's very good isn't she?
@TudorSmith
Yes! The nuance and precision of her delivery gives dimension and realism to this small but important role. I looked her up, and is seems that she hasn’t done much acting since then (according to the internet). It’s a bit disappointing!
Yes that's a shame. She should do more.
Sometimes I think Charlotte comes across as opportunistic and irritating but she's actually a very clever, observant character and she gets things dead on.
Lov her...
I always interpreted Darcys smiles and the walk with the candle and the dog as a man "at home" not only in his house but in his own self, being relieved having finally "come out" as belonging, as it were, to a woman who has been scorned and ridiculed by his friends for months. He has been honest, he is in the right, and can carry himself with dignity and ease. I don´t think it had as much to do with Caroline Bingley being put in her place, though it had a certain satisfaction for sure.
Yes he’s definitely more relaxed in his own home. And the visual exchanges that Darcy and Elizabeth have when she’s runs to help Georgina at the piano after Caroline’s remark about Wickham - those glances say so much about the relationship being repaired.
I agree -- I don't think he has any thoughts of Caroline Bingley here at all. He's only thinking of Elizabeth. But this video was fun anyway
I agree that they should've included the scene where Lizzy told her father what Darcy had done to help their family but another scene I know I would've loved is when Mrs. Bennet found out about Lizzy's engagement. She had disliked Darcy throughout the show and now he was engaged to Lizzy and all was forgiven, since after all he had 10,000 pounds a year. She was such a silly woman I know it would've been so funny to see her reaction.
For me it isn’t the 1995 version, it is the only version.
18:38 I don't think Darcy wasted one single though for Caroline. He was only thinking of Elizabeth, and I wish you discussed the following scene of Darcy at the fireplace. That's my most *FAVOURITE* moment in the whole movie. I'm not sure how they did it, but Darcy's face lights up, his eyes start sparkling: that's the moment when he realizes that he can propose Elizabeth again. So beautifully done, so subtle and still so powerful. Beautifully done 🥰😍❤
Yeah so much is provided when words can’t justify the emotions. It’s a good catch from you and I’m going to watch it again myself to see if I can spot it.
Collin Firth didn’t win an Oscar for nothing. “The King’s Speech” was yet another tour de force for this amazing actor. He never disappoints . His detailed, nuanced Darcy is one of the best performances by any actor -male or female-I’ve ever seen. His “Darcy” is one reason why we come back to watch ‘95 P&P over and over. When my daughters first watched it, I told them: “Watch Darcy’s eyes. Every time you see him, his eyes tell you everything you need to know about him.” Whoever said, “The eyes are the windows to the soul” must have been thinking about Collin Firth’s portrayal of Mr. Darcy. ❤️
@@carolanneposey5211 Collin Firth is not my favourite actor, in fact, I don't think he's very good as an actor. However, his facial expressions are brilliant. He's the best when he plays the embarrassed. Like when he meets Lizzy at the house after a swim, or in Nanny McPhee when he's called out about Mrs Quickly. And yes, in the King's Speech. I think he's naturally a shy person and plays shy people the best.
He had a romantic relationship with Ehle during the shooting, that's why his eyes are so telling. He truly was in love, it's in his eyes ❤ No acting can replace true feelings.
One thing that both Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle do so well, and to me is a sign of superb acting, is how they vary their breathing. When we feel various emotions, our breathing changes -- we tense up, relax, stop breathing, take a deeper breath etc etc. In every key scene between these two you will see their breathing change in sync with the emotions flowing across their faces, and their pupils dilate and contract too. For example, when Darcy allows himself to gaze at Elizabeth, he tends to untense himself and therefore takes a deeper breath; it's such a natural, unconscious response and most viewers won't notice it, but it's a core part of what makes Firth's portrayal so impactful and believable for viewers.
This is my favorite version of Pride & Prejudice. Simply perfect.
It does take a lot of beating 👍
Mine too
My favorite version of P&P. They are perfect to getting, Colin and Jennifer. 🥰🥰🥰
Your videos are always so informative, insightful, and entertaining- thanks so much.
This adaptation of Pride and Prejudice was my first introduction to Jane Austen, and I’ve long thought it was one of the best Austen adaptation ever made. However, your “Things you might have missed” videos help me recognize anew how well and thoughtfully made it is.
I’m pretty sure that the production team were considering more than just the text/script in this release. All those background actions and micro expressions give us so much more.
@@TudorSmith Maybe this is just a semantic quibble, but I think that many of the incidents you point out reinforce the text rather going beyond it (if that’s what you’re suggesting. For example, you point out instances where Mary shows interest in Mr. Collins, and the text tells us that she was indeed open to marrying him. In cases like that, the actors, directors, etc., were trying to show us something through the characters’ actions that was made explicit in the text.
Absolutely. Demonstrating the emotions of the characters (Mary in this instance) without having the character verbally express their desires.
@ 18:00 I don't think Darcy is smiling in triumph over Caroline as much as he is fully grasping the realization that he is in love with Elizabeth. He admits it to himself and he is happy in this acceptance of his feelings for her.
I just read through the comment section and this is the popular consensus with the women-posters. Isn't it intriguing that us ladies read that scene alternatively than you did?
Yes. Funny how we see things differently and it seems I see things differently in all of the scenes I mention 🤪
For what it's worth...I do think, the background music in that scene supports the theory of him having 'tender thoughts' about Elizabeth, though.
I just found your channel and watched all the Pride & Prejudice videos, I loved them! Please do more of other period pieces!! I wore out my P&P vhs tapes, scratched the first DVDs, bought another set and recently bought the series on Amazon Prime, I've watched it more than 100 times.
Same! All three, plus on Audible
Just two things. I think Darcy is impressed when he comes across Elizabeth at Netherfield but knows he mustn’t show it, so is surpressing a smile and I think the candlelit walk along the corridor at Pemberley is him thinking to himself that he’s starting to impress Lizzy and he’s chuffed with himself that they had such a good evening together. Nothing about Caroline at all.
In the corridor scene, I never felt that Darcy was giving much thought to Caroline Bingley at that point. I thought he was finally getting past his own prejudices/pride and admitting to himself how much he admired Elizabeth. He is clearly self-satisfied that he has been able to do so.
That is how I always interpreted that scene!
More than that
Now he's every reason to believe
Lizz loves him... Reciprocating his feelings.. Ah.. Liz and Darcy looks adorable here... Mmm
The scene with Darcy and Lizzy where they run into each other as she arrives...to me, that little micro expression from Darcy seems like he was trying not to smile. He was somewhat impressed I think.
Yes I agree! That's how I read it also, the way he straightened his lips was suppressing amusement that she had walked, and found it rather attractive but didn't want to let on.
I agree. But I also think this scene shows that Darcy has that sort of snobby side to him that he's been allowed to nurture his whole life. In a way he's laughing or smirking at Elizabeth's breach of decorum by walking "on foot?" to see her sister. If Caroline Bingley or Louisa Hurst had been in this scene, they would have been making the same sort of face, because they are also incredibly snobbish.
But we begin to see, in this scene and in later ones such as the argument that Lizzie and Darcy have by the fireplace, that she is in effect calling him on this behavior, and forcing him to grow a little and stop taking himself so seriously, if he really wants to stand a chance of being with her.
Darcy of course, also has an effect on Lizzie in the other direction, in essence calling her on her penchant for being taken in by the BS of someone like Wickham and being overly judgmental against Darcy.
Lost count of how many times I’ve watched this series, just love it.
I think the reason in this version Lizzie doesn’t tell her father about Darcy’s involvement in Lydia’s wedding & paying off Wickhams debts is similar to the reasons she explains to Jane earlier - Mr Darcy has not given her leave to, and it involves his sister. Both Lizzie & Darcy would not want her father thinking she was only accepting his proposal for that reason also, she wants her family to accept his qualities without obligated gratitude. And I think it likely that information would not be held tightly by the Bennet family & be the talk of the village, giving Darcy great embarrassment!
Enjoyable video, thank you!
Ah yes that makes sense. It's easy to be able to pick holes in the plot when the bigger picture isn't taken into account. Thanks for sharing 👍
At 5:36, I would like to submit my own interpretation of Darcy's reaction to Elizabeth's arrival at Netherfield. I think the suppressed emotion on his face is admiration not disdain for her rolling her eyes. He appreciates her energy and enjoyment of nature and, unlike Miss Bingley, is impressed and admiring of Elizabeth.
That’s a good observation 🙏
Sharp of you to see Mary's smiles at Mr. Collins and Lydia's background flirts with the soldiers. I do disagree on your last point. Darcy is not thinking of Miss Bingley, but savoring the moment when he shared warm eye contact with Elizabeth. Caroline doesn't affect him enough that he would relish taking her down a peg. Rather, he has been deeply rattled by Elizabeth and is rejoicing in their fleeting moment of mutual solicitude. My take on this is reinforced by the music that plays as Darcy strolls the gallery with his dog. It is a sweet and joyful instrumental version of the song Lizzie had been singing. The memory is fresh and warm and his smile is innocent and soft, not smug.
There is some fabulous blocking/background work whenever the Gardeners come to visit the family. They are constantly moving and interacting without breaking character which allows for beautiful natural movement for the lead characters and the camera
I interpreted Mr. Darcy's smiles walking down the long corridor, after Lizzie gazed at him in a kindly way from the piano, as him feeling a sense of encouragement from Lizzie. It looks to me as if he's contemplating a possible second proposal.
Yes that’s highly likely
Seeing that D'arcy had greyhounds chasing after him in that scene immediately erased from my mine any negative connotations possibly connected with the man.
Indeed, I thought his demeanor shown in the film on the way to the inn to see Lizzy was precisely that he was planning to propose again, only to find her in tears & discover it's about Wickham.
I like the part when, after the first ball where Mr Bingly and and his party are first presented, the group are relaxing at Netherfield talking about how tedious the ball was. Caroline remarks that "Jane Bennet is a sweet girl, but the mother!"
Bingly's response is a priceless expression giving us a glimpse into his open and honest temper as though he might try to excuse her if he could but.....no.....can't be done.😂
I noticed Mary enamored with Collins, and her anticipating getting asked to dance a long time ago, and was so impressed with her acting. I probably noticed it because I’m an actor 😂
We actor types pick up on this kind of thing 👍
I noticed it too, but I thought it was my imagination.
This is my favorite adaptation & actors. I did notice many of the subtle facial moments but the biggest unseen item was Lydia pulling the hat off & playing/flirting with him about it. I will be watching for all of these next time I see the series. That will be very soon now! Thank you for the fun peeks, I'd have thought nothing of the 4th wall being broken either as they seemed so natural.
Mary's facial expressions when sisters Lydia and Kitty are fighting over a bonnet (the first example presented here) are to me remarkably similar to what one might have expected from Mr. Bennet had he been cast in her stead. Thank you, Tudor Smith, for this thoroughly enjoyable content.
Thank you for watching and for commenting 🙏
this is why this version of Pride and Prejudice is the best. Every one is a great actor! subtle acting is the best.
And they play it down [the acting] so well
The absolute perfection of this adaptation is summed up in the great casting, directing and the excellent job the actors did at bringing these wonderful characters to life. I honestly I believe it to be the best adaptation, hands down. Having watched it many times, I have recognized all the subtleties you mentioned except for Mary during the kerfuffle over the hat. I did interpret Mr. Darcy’s mind being on Lizzy rather than the conversation he just had with Bingly’s sister. Great video! I never tire of this mini series.
I had always interpreted the scene where Jane comes to fetch Mr. Collins for Mary as if Jane was trying to give Lizzy and Mr. Wickham some privacy, as Jane was aware at the time that Lizzy was interested in Mr. Wickham. It never occurred to me that the intention could have been for Mary to spend some private time with Mr. Collins. Wow. Thanks for the insight :)
I suppose it’s all open for interpretation right? It’s interesting to speculate though 👍
Mary might not have taken that initiative but she would be very happy to cooperate with the scheme.
I had to go back to the book to double check what Mr Bennet knew about Mr. Darcy's involvement in Lydia's situation. You are right. Lizzy tells him only after she convinces him of her feelings for Mr. Darcy, but she did tell him.
Indeed. I think they should have included it in the 1995 adaptation.
@@TudorSmith However, that is consistent with this happening "off camera" like you said, isn't it?
The best dramatized "Pride and Prejudice" ever. ❤
Most definitely! ❤
Ohhh! thank you so much for this new video❤ Regarding the 'Go, Lizzy, go' moment, I wonder if you caught that Lizzy sets her eyes on Charlotte for a moment, just to check if their frienship and mutual understanding is there still. It's like Elizabeth saying with her eyes: 'There I go, Charlotte, as I am' and she seems so comfortable with her friend being herself and confronting (one person does it, at last!) Lady Catherine. The book highlights the change in their relation when Charlotte got married, but Elizabeth is at last happy for her when she returns home.
I also wonder why some crucial parts of the book were omitted, especially at the end. Not only Elizabeth talking to her father, but also the embarrassment of the two main lovers when the men return to Netherfield and Longbourn (each one looking at each other to find some evidence of love and not being able to get a second of their own), the conversation prior and post second proposal and the mind blowing moment of intimacy between Elizabeth and Darcy when she asks how he fell for her, which is one of my favourite parts since we can wrap altogether Darcy's behaviour and understand him completely regarding not only to Elizabeth, but to his social environment and his being that type of person who doesn't quite 'work' in society. (I must say that in Spanish -I'm from Spain- this last conversation of the book is translated with very informal pronouns (tú) for the time portrayed while the rest of the story is set with very formal pronouns (usted) so it makes a huge difference for Spanish readers about how they are intimate with each other.)
I really think they wanted to make a six episode series and not seven, so they decided not to include all those things. It would have been really nice to have another episode including these details and the fact that Elizabeth manages to teach Darcy how to be less resentful and proud and to have a healthy relation with his aunt and not to get stuck in the past.
Greetings from Spain! 😀
Yes chapters 60 and 61 in the book (life after the weddings etc) could have made another episode.
The wish I’d let the clip of the ”go Lizzy go” bit run a little longer. The looks between Elizabeth and Charlotte are so revealing.
@@TudorSmith
Now all have
Aged.. May I say
Gracefully.. And so
We therefore can't have the rest of the story... Enacted by..
The commited actors as in this version ...😊
V. Sad... I too felt the same
As others who have commented..
Would love to hear more about
Jennifer as she's only American in the cast... It would not be the same if a less talented actor played the part..and as Colin himself pointed out she's got lot of dialogue. Emoting... And the spine of the story if i could say so... And ofcourse her bonding with colin helped immensely... I am sure about that too...
But Jen... she's not there in any of videos talking about her experience..
And few in cast mention her... 😀
My observation...
I maintain that Lucy Briers is massively under rated in this role. There are little moments for her in the background peppered throughout the series. Adore her
I agree. She certainly knows her character. I laughed in the video on RUclips (Pride & Prejudice - Lasting Impressions) where she explains that she lied about playing the piano. But when it came to demonstrating it for Carl Davis at the audition, she thought she'd lost the part but was told that she had in fact won it. And particularly because she played the piano as badly as Mary would have 🤣
ruclips.net/video/usx2rt7TUac/видео.htmlsi=ai62aXawM4VmCbvy&t=44
I enjoyed this video thank you Tudor. You've covered a lot in this video but have not mentioned Adrian Lukis much. I think his subtle and comedic performance is a little underrated. 1. I particularly like the scene where Wickham and Lizzy have that underhand duel behind a mask of politeness and fraternity in which Lizzy gives him the one final slap down to end the discussion of what really happened between him and the Darcy family. It's so cheeky of Lizzy to toy with him like a cat with a mouse with that tease about how Darcy must have been in town for a wedding.... She pauses deliberately to watch him start and then squirm, which Adrian delivers with masterfully understated acting. I don't think that was in the book, it's just really good screenplay? Then at the end of that conversation I love his walk of agony and shame which he communicates with his back to us, trying to puff himself up while dying inside complete with that toss of his head like a suppressed aaaaahhhh!
2. His reaction to Lizzy's earlier question "do you know Colonel Fitzwilliam" is great too. As is his face blanching with fear when he and Darcy bump into each other in Merryton.
3. I also like Colonel Forster's look of unbridled lust at Lizzy while she is dancing with Mr. Darcy. It's a little in the foreground to Mr. Collins' ridiculous drool so might be missed for that reason. There are other admiring glances to Lizzy in this sequence too.
4. I love Mr. Bennett's eyeroll in reaction to Wickham's fatuous "as the French would have it, aurevoir!"
5. The beautifully synchronized acting by the cast playing Maria, Mr. Collins and Charlotte at the parsonage with Lizzy and Col Fitzwilliam chatting in the foreground. They are in such awe of Mr. Darcy and are all hanging on his every word and gesture. Mr. Darcy's attention is so riveted on Lizzy that the way he ignores them so completely is hilarious!
6. Lucy Scott's finest turn as Charlotte I think is when she invites Lizzy to visit her. She communicates so much so subtly and so perfectly in character of her sudden fear as the reality of her new situation bites and she needs the support of her friend at her side.
I don't agree that Lydia's fall is unscripted because, while I think Nadia's whole performance is brilliant throughout, would she have been able to ad lib so perfectly in character with that language so appropriate for the time? It wasn't a phrase that rolls of the tongue today so I think everyone just acted really well.
Benjamin Whitrow did.a wonderful job with his facial expressions bringing out the charming narcissist character of Austen's Mr. Bennett. In other adaptations he comes across as kindly and loving which is not the way Austen wrote him. Whitrow frequently smirks at his wife or winks at Lizzy, completely changing the feeling of what he is saying. The opening scene is a good example, what he says sounds serious but the subtle smirk tells you he is not serious.
Yes, those little nuances are perfect for giving depth to the character when there are no words to be spoken.
As far as I remember, Darcy's help in bringing about Lydia's marriage to Wickham was supposed to be a secret. As Lydia mentioned It herself while visiting her family just afterwards, and when Lizzy's aunt wrote to her that Mr Gardiner was to get all the credits for arranging things. So I think it makes sense that Lizzy does not mention it to her father. Since she respects Darcy's wish not to have it mentioned. Or at least that's how I've always felt about it... No matter how it was meant to be, this is still by far my favourite adaptation of Jane Austen's book. So many little details make it a joy to watch. Which reminds me I shoud do so again very soon. And I'll probably notice all the things I previously missed until you told us about them 🙂
I like your take on it. It kind of makes sense as to a possible reason the revelation was omitted in this series 👍