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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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..
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.
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.
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 😅
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!
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😊
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 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.
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 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❤🥰
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 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.
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 🙏
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.
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.
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’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 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 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 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.
@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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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❤.
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.
@ 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?
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.
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
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.
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.
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 😂
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!
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
In the first scene, Mary is there for contrast. Her peace and calm, and the way she concentrates on her book - compared to her squabbling sisters and hysterical mother. She also perceives herself as superior, hence the eye roll. It's establishing the family dynamics.
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.
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.
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.
My interpretation of Darcy's little smile when walking the corridor was not that he's smiling about Caroline, but that he was smiling about Lizzy's way of showing her solidarity with Georgiana. Lizzy, in that scene, shows her newfound respect and liking of Darcy, as well as her understanding of Darcy himself - so well...
Elizabeth didn't tell her dad about Darcy's magnaninous acts because she recognises, admires and wishes to honour Darcy's distaste for austentacious displays of piety. Elizabeth has gained insight into Darcy's true nature, and this scene illustrates her transferring her confidence from her father over to Darcy. She has given her heart to him.
If she does not tell him, her father will not know how magnanimous Darcy and why she suddenly wants to marry him. Because, for Mr. Bennet, she hates Darcy, who is supposedly full of pride and disdain. It was an essential explanation on her part - otherwise her father had the right to deny his blessing.
I always thought that Darcy's reaction reflects his attempt to reconcile the fact that he believes she shouldn't be out-and-about alone with the fact that he admires her determination to see to her sister's welfare. He's struggling because society's expectations aren't in balance with his emotions.
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 :)
@@TudorSmith I can't quite believe that, if it had been an accident, Lydia would have spontaneously said about "breaking my head" which sounded too much of the time and in character to have not been scripted. She is a brilliant actress though.
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
The moment when Darcy sees her on foot he is trying to suppress a chuckle, there is a smile hiding there :) 100% sure of that, but as not to embarrass her he tries to suppress it, evidently not well enough as she rolls her eyes in response to that slight Have watched this version countless times, 100% sure on this one
The `1995 version with Jennifer and Colin is by far the best and most saturated with Jane Austen's intent to entertain. You must also include in brilliant acting Anna Chancelor's reaction to Darcy when she is smiling at him at the dinner table and he counters her jab at Elizabeth , her smile remains, her expression almost unchanged but you can tell her spirit and joy has totally left her and the smile is a mere mask, a husk of a former emotion of validation now empty and she does it so well almost without moving, she is so funny there.
Anna Chancelor gives a master class in acting throughout the episodes. She offers us a character that we almost choose to dislike right from the start. Her subtle performances are a delight to watch!
Thank you - it was very interesting. I disagree, however, about what Darcy was thinking as he was walking along the long corridor with his dogs: to me he was thinking that wonder of wonders, it might be possible that he could win Elizabeth's heart after all -- and he was filled with a warm glow!
Isn’t that wonderful? I think it’s the beauty of no verbal scenes, that allow the fewer to put their own interpretations into what they are seeing. My thoughts were based on how the two scenes were shown back to back and so his victory ✌️ ver CB seemed fresh to me. But I certainly do see your points too 👍
I think both are in play, and that one sentiment does not exclude the other. Both a victory over putting the insufferable Caroline Bingley in her place, and renewed hope that he could win Elizabeth's heart.
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!
I feel for Mary, not only is she average looking but she is stuck between two beautiful and graceful older sisters and two younger obnoxious sisters. The odd one out and most often forgotten about by both parents. I have read the book several times, love it. Jane is the mother's favorite daughter, Lydia is most doted on and Elizabeth is the father's favorite. Kitty is really just there to follow Lydia around. She cant think for herself. Colin Firth was the perfect Mr. Darcy in all ways.
Oh yeah. In the books it's clear Mary rates him highly and thinks his mind could be improved by extensive reading and be influenced to do so by her. She's also been giving him signs she's into him and once Lydia runs off, Mary gives a speech saying we can't be too unguarded against the undeserving of the other sex. She's taking a direct dig at Mr Collins with that
I think, in the corridor scene Darcy is not just thinking about Miss Bingley. After that small puff of air his face becomes happy and mild, and I think he then thinks of his happy future life with Lizzy, realizing, it will be just this corridor he is going to lead her along, as his wife.
Re: Darcy catching Elizabeth after her walk… Those pursed lips of Darcy hide the tiniest smile. Look closely. He’s both mildly shocked by & impressed with her. It’s these traits of hers why he falls for her after all. Her eye-roll is both annoyance at him pointing this out & a slight discomfort at being caught doing something of which he disapproves. A touch of pride mixed with disliking his prejudice (as she believes). I think my interpretation is what their character’s struggle with throughout. If Darcy was merely disapproving, we’ve lost the story.
I have just wanted to write the same. That tiny, impressed smile of his, how truly helplessly he adores her. And then she, caught off-guard, drawn to him despite herself. Genius.
One of my favourite little moments is in episode 1, when everyone at Netherfield is discussing the party at Lucas Lodge. Mr Hurst wakes up after clearly drinking too much and the subtle reactions from both Bingley and Darcy to his being a boor are priceless.
“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.
That moment when Jane looks at the camera makes a girl feel like she's riding along in the carriage with them. This is likely my absolute favorite film ever. I watch it at least 5 times a year.
I just read the book again, Darcy thinks is proposal is a sure thing and is discombobulated when he’s rejected. Also something I forgot is when Mrs. Reynolds says Wickham’s mother had extravagant taste, so we see why Wickham was always in debt. Also in the book Georgiana is described as not quite as handsome as her brother and painfully shy. Love the book.
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! :)
When Darcy comes to see Lizzie right after hearing the bad news about Lydia from Jane's letter, Lizzie makes the comment about how all their family must participate in Lydia's disgrace. The next shot of Darcy includes a very subtle shake of the head and he seems to mouth the word "no". I love that part! 🥰
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.
Hi Tudor. I found one thing you missed. It's the moment when Mr. Collins arrives at the Bennett's house for the first time. When the Bennett family go outside their front door to meet him, Mary can be seen looking intently at Mr. Collins and quickly smooths her hair with her hand in an attempt to look her best.
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.
The '95 P & P is my absolute favorite. Mary absolutely needed to be in that hat battle scene. Those are the 3 'NOT Lizzy/NOT Jane' sisters. They shared screen time, with the Mother, to as you say, showcase more of the family dynamic of the younger 3 girls. Poor Mary! lol ~ Why didn't the odious Mr. Collins go after her?
Because like all mediocre men he set his sights first on the most beautiful sister (Jane) before settling for Lizzie. Even in as much as Charlotte is described as plain, she is the daughter of a knight. The younger sisters are less attractive and are silly. He thinks he’s doing any Bennet sister a favor by offering marriage but what’s in it for him? He thinks he’s a catch.
I actually emphasized a lot with Mary in this scene. I was a somewhat precocious, overly serious young teen myself 'once upon a time' and I had many such moments sitting in class and being annoyed by the antics of my classmates 😆. I never disliked her as much as many people seem to, even though she sure was insufferable at times. But she couldn't help it! It's so sad, actually. She's not very pretty or charming and just intelligent enough, to be easily annoyed by others, but not introspective and mature enough, to see her own faults as well. And her parents sure weren't helping the situation. She was just left to fend for herself in a chaotic household, where she got neither much guidance nor attention.
@@dalailalai6335 I think the beauty didn't play much of a role in his choices. He went for the older one, then realized she was almost engaged, and he switched to #2, age-wise. He might have looked to Mary then (although it would look ridiculous, like going down some roster), but before that he bumped into Charlotte, and found a sympathetic soul in her, enhanced by Charlotte's and her mother's art. Charlotte was already 27, and that was about her last chance to get sb decent.
The scene where Elizabeth rejects the proposal of Mr Collins she looks ready to crack up the entire time. In fact, many of Mr Collins's cringe moments the other actors look ready to laugh at him. David Bamber must have been very fun to work with. I would watch an entire video based on Mr Collin's cringe moments. This adaptation was really good at making moments that created secondhand embarrassment. The scene where Elizabeth looks back at her ridiculous family is so hard to watch I fast forward it on every rewatch.
David Bamber really gives us a Collins character that owns his part of the story. So unforgettable. Kind of always there ready to embarrass his extended family without realising he is probably the cause of the embarrassment 🙂
Also agree it would have but benefited the production had they included Lizzy telling her father of Mr. Darcy's involvement in Lydia's marriage arrangements. But my biggest regret is not being able to see Alison Steadman react to the news of Lizzy's engagement to Darcy. That would have been sublime!
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!
One of my (few) quibbles with the ‘95 version is actually a change they made to Darcy’s letter! They restructured and edited it down quite a bit, which is more than understandable, but in doing so they left out a crucial detail: Wickham returning to beg for the living after the £3000 ran out. According to Darcy’s account in the ‘95 version, he and Wickham had no contact between Darcy giving him the £3000 and the attempted elopement with Georgiana. In this context, the conclusion that Wickham went after Georgiana partly for revenge makes no sense, since Darcy had been nothing but generous and willing to compromise up to that point. Bothers me on every rewatch!
It’s been a long time since I’ve read the book and I have no recollection of Wickham returning after the £3000 had run out! Your observation makes more sense in regards to Wickham seeking revenge.
@@TudorSmith “For about three years I heard little of him; but on the decease of the incumbent of the living which had been designed for him, he applied to me again by letter for the presentation. His circumstances, he assured me, and I had no difficulty in believing it, were exceedingly bad. He had found the law a most unprofitable study, and was now absolutely resolved on being ordained, if I would present him to the living in question-of which he trusted there could be little doubt, as he was well assured that I had no other person to provide for, and I could not have forgotten my revered father's intentions. You will hardly blame me for refusing to comply with this entreaty, or for resisting every repetition to it. His resentment was in proportion to the distress of his circumstances-and he was doubtless as violent in his abuse of me to others as in his reproaches to myself.” I considered paraphrasing, but Austen speaks best for herself :)
This version is my favorite and most closely follows the book. I wish they had extended the proposal scene toward the end though. It goes on longer in the book and is really sweet.
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
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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
This version is THE gold standard for all “Pride & Prejudice!”
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.
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..
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 👍
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 😂
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
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!
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!
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.
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.
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 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.
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 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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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’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 👍
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 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 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.
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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
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 👍
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 👏🙋♀️
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.
@ 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.
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
Alright, alright. I will go and watch this for the 2398th time....
I think you should. It always improves on further watching 🤣
There's always something in this rich production that you never noticed before...
That's all? You should be ashamed of yourself. You need at least 5,000 viewings to catch the true essence 😂😉
😂 very good!
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
Still watch the 1995 on repeat best version ever 🎉
It’s always worth rewatching 👍 📺
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
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.
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.
1995 P&P is the best version, hands-down. I will die on this hill.
Darcy's reaction to seeing that Lizzie walked - I saw that as him holding back a grin - that he admired her fierceness.
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!
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 🤣
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.
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.
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 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.
In the first scene, Mary is there for contrast. Her peace and calm, and the way she concentrates on her book - compared to her squabbling sisters and hysterical mother. She also perceives herself as superior, hence the eye roll. It's establishing the family dynamics.
Yep!
This series is perfection. I binge watch this every year or so with no interruptions.
I also binge watch 😂
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.
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.
This serial is nothing but perfection…i have watched it more than 15 times and more to com as its my yearly routine
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 ❤
My interpretation of Darcy's little smile when walking the corridor was not that he's smiling about Caroline, but that he was smiling about Lizzy's way of showing her solidarity with Georgiana. Lizzy, in that scene, shows her newfound respect and liking of Darcy, as well as her understanding of Darcy himself - so well...
Yes 🙌 agree. It’s become the general consensus
Elizabeth didn't tell her dad about Darcy's magnaninous acts because she recognises, admires and wishes to honour Darcy's distaste for austentacious displays of piety.
Elizabeth has gained insight into Darcy's true nature, and this scene illustrates her transferring her confidence from her father over to Darcy.
She has given her heart to him.
She does tell her father in the book
If she does not tell him, her father will not know how magnanimous Darcy and why she suddenly wants to marry him. Because, for Mr. Bennet, she hates Darcy, who is supposedly full of pride and disdain. It was an essential explanation on her part - otherwise her father had the right to deny his blessing.
@@nadinesoussa1367 she didn't care. All she was focused on was how wealthy Lizzie would be
Elizabeth probably looks exasperated after Darcy asks if she's been traveling by foot because she thinks he's judging her negatively again.
I always thought that Darcy's reaction reflects his attempt to reconcile the fact that he believes she shouldn't be out-and-about alone with the fact that he admires her determination to see to her sister's welfare. He's struggling because society's expectations aren't in balance with his emotions.
@@coolcpa3321 I agree. Well formulated.
@@coolcpa3321 Hadn't thought of that,but so true!
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 always thought that scene of Lydia slipping on the carriage step was a mistake. Proves what a good actress she is by her response. 🤔
If it was accidental, she recovered really quickly!
@@TudorSmith I can't quite believe that, if it had been an accident, Lydia would have spontaneously said about "breaking my head" which sounded too much of the time and in character to have not been scripted. She is a brilliant actress though.
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
The moment when Darcy sees her on foot he is trying to suppress a chuckle, there is a smile hiding there :) 100% sure of that, but as not to embarrass her he tries to suppress it, evidently not well enough as she rolls her eyes in response to that slight Have watched this version countless times, 100% sure on this one
It’s funny how people see different things. I still don’t see a suppressed smile!
I too see a suppressed smile.
The best dramatized "Pride and Prejudice" ever. ❤
Most definitely! ❤
The `1995 version with Jennifer and Colin is by far the best and most saturated with Jane Austen's intent to entertain. You must also include in brilliant acting Anna Chancelor's reaction to Darcy when she is smiling at him at the dinner table and he counters her jab at Elizabeth , her smile remains, her expression almost unchanged but you can tell her spirit and joy has totally left her and the smile is a mere mask, a husk of a former emotion of validation now empty and she does it so well almost without moving, she is so funny there.
Anna Chancelor gives a master class in acting throughout the episodes. She offers us a character that we almost choose to dislike right from the start. Her subtle performances are a delight to watch!
Thank you - it was very interesting. I disagree, however, about what Darcy was thinking as he was walking along the long corridor with his dogs: to me he was thinking that wonder of wonders, it might be possible that he could win Elizabeth's heart after all -- and he was filled with a warm glow!
i do agree with this! i think his eyes were the eyes of a besotted man there indeed
\
Isn’t that wonderful? I think it’s the beauty of no verbal scenes, that allow the fewer to put their own interpretations into what they are seeing. My thoughts were based on how the two scenes were shown back to back and so his victory ✌️ ver CB seemed fresh to me. But I certainly do see your points too 👍
I think both are in play, and that one sentiment does not exclude the other. Both a victory over putting the insufferable Caroline Bingley in her place, and renewed hope that he could win Elizabeth's heart.
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!
I feel for Mary, not only is she average looking but she is stuck between two beautiful and graceful older sisters and two younger obnoxious sisters. The odd one out and most often forgotten about by both parents. I have read the book several times, love it. Jane is the mother's favorite daughter, Lydia is most doted on and Elizabeth is the father's favorite. Kitty is really just there to follow Lydia around. She cant think for herself.
Colin Firth was the perfect Mr. Darcy in all ways.
Oh yeah.
In the books it's clear Mary rates him highly and thinks his mind could be improved by extensive reading and be influenced to do so by her.
She's also been giving him signs she's into him and once Lydia runs off, Mary gives a speech saying we can't be too unguarded against the undeserving of the other sex.
She's taking a direct dig at Mr Collins with that
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 🏆 👍
Ahhh the quick smile in corridor is alllll about Lizzy I think… we even see him reliving their gaze earlier ❤
Yep I see it now 👍
@@TudorSmith 🙏😊
Thanks for your beautiful videos on my favorite series
I think, in the corridor scene Darcy is not just thinking about Miss Bingley. After that small puff of air his face becomes happy and mild, and I think he then thinks of his happy future life with Lizzy, realizing, it will be just this corridor he is going to lead her along, as his wife.
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
I always thought that Lydia's trip when she enters the carriage en route to Brighton was on purpose to symbolise her imminent fall from grace...
Oh that’s clever; I like it. I never considered that.
The dialogue confirms that interpretation: she will indeed "fall".
I always took it as more proof of her silliness and how she really doesn't comport herself as a lady would.
Re: Darcy catching Elizabeth after her walk…
Those pursed lips of Darcy hide the tiniest smile. Look closely. He’s both mildly shocked by & impressed with her. It’s these traits of hers why he falls for her after all.
Her eye-roll is both annoyance at him pointing this out & a slight discomfort at being caught doing something of which he disapproves. A touch of pride mixed with disliking his prejudice (as she believes).
I think my interpretation is what their character’s struggle with throughout.
If Darcy was merely disapproving, we’ve lost the story.
I have just wanted to write the same. That tiny, impressed smile of his, how truly helplessly he adores her. And then she, caught off-guard, drawn to him despite herself. Genius.
One of my favourite little moments is in episode 1, when everyone at Netherfield is discussing the party at Lucas Lodge. Mr Hurst wakes up after clearly drinking too much and the subtle reactions from both Bingley and Darcy to his being a boor are priceless.
Mr Hurst doesn’t have a lot of dialogue but he does add a certain spark when he shares his few words. 🤣
The interactions between Lady Catherine and Elizabeth are some of my favourite scenes. I love the book more, but this series was a fair adaptation.
“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.
That moment when Jane looks at the camera makes a girl feel like she's riding along in the carriage with them. This is likely my absolute favorite film ever. I watch it at least 5 times a year.
As long as that girl isn’t lolloping about 🤣
I just read the book again, Darcy thinks is proposal is a sure thing and is discombobulated when he’s rejected. Also something I forgot is when Mrs. Reynolds says Wickham’s mother had extravagant taste, so we see why Wickham was always in debt. Also in the book Georgiana is described as not quite as handsome as her brother and painfully shy. Love the book.
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! :)
My favorite version of P&P. They are perfect to getting, Colin and Jennifer. 🥰🥰🥰
When Darcy comes to see Lizzie right after hearing the bad news about Lydia from Jane's letter, Lizzie makes the comment about how all their family must participate in Lydia's disgrace. The next shot of Darcy includes a very subtle shake of the head and he seems to mouth the word "no". I love that part! 🥰
Oh that’s interesting. I’ve not picked up in that’s 👍
Colon Firth IS Mr. Darcy. ❤
Absolutely.
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.
Hi Tudor. I found one thing you missed. It's the moment when Mr. Collins arrives at the Bennett's house for the first time. When the Bennett family go outside their front door to meet him, Mary can be seen looking intently at Mr. Collins and quickly smooths her hair with her hand in an attempt to look her best.
Ah yes, more indicators that Mary is hoping to attract Mr. Collins!
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 🙏
The '95 P & P is my absolute favorite. Mary absolutely needed to be in that hat battle scene. Those are the 3 'NOT Lizzy/NOT Jane' sisters. They shared screen time, with the Mother, to as you say, showcase more of the family dynamic of the younger 3 girls. Poor Mary! lol ~ Why didn't the odious Mr. Collins go after her?
Because like all mediocre men he set his sights first on the most beautiful sister (Jane) before settling for Lizzie. Even in as much as Charlotte is described as plain, she is the daughter of a knight. The younger sisters are less attractive and are silly. He thinks he’s doing any Bennet sister a favor by offering marriage but what’s in it for him? He thinks he’s a catch.
I actually emphasized a lot with Mary in this scene. I was a somewhat precocious, overly serious young teen myself 'once upon a time' and I had many such moments sitting in class and being annoyed by the antics of my classmates 😆.
I never disliked her as much as many people seem to, even though she sure was insufferable at times. But she couldn't help it! It's so sad, actually. She's not very pretty or charming and just intelligent enough, to be easily annoyed by others, but not introspective and mature enough, to see her own faults as well. And her parents sure weren't helping the situation. She was just left to fend for herself in a chaotic household, where she got neither much guidance nor attention.
@@dalailalai6335 I think the beauty didn't play much of a role in his choices. He went for the older one, then realized she was almost engaged, and he switched to #2, age-wise.
He might have looked to Mary then (although it would look ridiculous, like going down some roster), but before that he bumped into Charlotte, and found a sympathetic soul in her, enhanced by Charlotte's and her mother's art. Charlotte was already 27, and that was about her last chance to get sb decent.
The scene where Elizabeth rejects the proposal of Mr Collins she looks ready to crack up the entire time. In fact, many of Mr Collins's cringe moments the other actors look ready to laugh at him. David Bamber must have been very fun to work with. I would watch an entire video based on Mr Collin's cringe moments.
This adaptation was really good at making moments that created secondhand embarrassment. The scene where Elizabeth looks back at her ridiculous family is so hard to watch I fast forward it on every rewatch.
David Bamber really gives us a Collins character that owns his part of the story. So unforgettable. Kind of always there ready to embarrass his extended family without realising he is probably the cause of the embarrassment 🙂
Also agree it would have but benefited the production had they included Lizzy telling her father of Mr. Darcy's involvement in Lydia's marriage arrangements.
But my biggest regret is not being able to see Alison Steadman react to the news of Lizzy's engagement to Darcy. That would have been sublime!
Can you imagine Alison Steadman acting that out? It would have been great to see.
That Darcy walks down a hall covered with his ancestors tells you what he is thinking about. His own lineage.
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 👍
One of my (few) quibbles with the ‘95 version is actually a change they made to Darcy’s letter! They restructured and edited it down quite a bit, which is more than understandable, but in doing so they left out a crucial detail: Wickham returning to beg for the living after the £3000 ran out. According to Darcy’s account in the ‘95 version, he and Wickham had no contact between Darcy giving him the £3000 and the attempted elopement with Georgiana. In this context, the conclusion that Wickham went after Georgiana partly for revenge makes no sense, since Darcy had been nothing but generous and willing to compromise up to that point. Bothers me on every rewatch!
It’s been a long time since I’ve read the book and I have no recollection of Wickham returning after the £3000 had run out! Your observation makes more sense in regards to Wickham seeking revenge.
@@TudorSmith “For about three years I heard little of him; but on the decease of the incumbent of the living which had been designed for him, he applied to me again by letter for the presentation. His circumstances, he assured me, and I had no difficulty in believing it, were exceedingly bad. He had found the law a most unprofitable study, and was now absolutely resolved on being ordained, if I would present him to the living in question-of which he trusted there could be little doubt, as he was well assured that I had no other person to provide for, and I could not have forgotten my revered father's intentions. You will hardly blame me for refusing to comply with this entreaty, or for resisting every repetition to it. His resentment was in proportion to the distress of his circumstances-and he was doubtless as violent in his abuse of me to others as in his reproaches to myself.”
I considered paraphrasing, but Austen speaks best for herself :)
Thank you for sharing. It certainly makes more sense.
I never noticed Mary’s interest in Mr. Collins until I read the book “mary may have been prevailed upon to marry him” after that I couldn’t unsee it
This version is my favorite and most closely follows the book. I wish they had extended the proposal scene toward the end though. It goes on longer in the book and is really sweet.