"The Look", as you so aptly called it, is one of my four most favorite scenes in this wonderfully amazing adaptation to the book. A second one is the second proposal, where both Colin Firth and Jennifer Elle emote in magical ways. My other two favorites are Lady Kathryn Deberg's tour of the "prettyish little wilderness" with Elizabeth Bennett, and... the first proposal; I thought that scene was absolutely phenomenal. I always thought that when Darcy said, "I shall conquer this," in the fencing scene, he was referencing his desire to overcome the negative traits of his that Elizabeth pointed out during the first proposal. Love your review.
The definitive adaptation, no doubt. The way Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth look at each other in the piano scene is pure perfection. Glad you mentioned it. ❤️
I absolutely love this series. So romantic. Yes, men do like watching good romatic movies, then we go split logs with our foreheads, build a deck or punch a bear in the face.
I read the book for the first time as I watched the miniseries. My mom would watch the episode ahead of me and tell me which chapter I would need to read to for that particular episode. So I was immersed in the book and the miniseries simultaneously. It was a wonderful literary experience that I will never forget. Absolutely loved your review!
absolutely agree with your review. Thank you. i have seen this adaptation many times and others too. even the 1967 one and this is the best. especially Mr Collins & Miss Bingley are spot on. All actors are well chosen.
Nicely done. This, too, is my favorite adaptation of P&P, although the competition isn't stiff. I do think it lapses occasionally into what the British call being 'twee' and the benign characters -- Elizabeth's aunt and uncle, for example -- may be a little too precious; that is to say, Austen's comic satire is compromised a bit by the demands of a TV mini-series, albeit a very good British one. On that note, I might recommend the late Martin Amis's 1998 essay on the series: He's considerably more critical than you or I might be -- for example, he deplores the performance of Benjamin Whitrow as Mr Bennet, which I greatly relish -- but he makes some interesting points about the production, and the difference between comedy and satire, and how the genius of Jane Austen, for all her provincial predictability, endures. Again, nicely done.
Personally, “Pride and Prejudice” (1995) is the best miniseries ever! I’ve watched it several times and it never gets old. The pacing is perfect over 5 hours with each character given ample time and their interactions. Some of my other favorite miniseries are: - Lonesome Dove (1989) - Band of Brothers (2001) - The Pacific (2010) - Chernobyl (2019) - Shogun (2024)
It's the best version. Just a great cast : Jennifer Ehle is perfect as Lizzie, Colin Firth as Darcy, Alison Steadman manages the character of Mrs. Bennet very well, Julia Sawahla, Lucy Briers, David Bamber, Barbara Leigh-Hunt, Susanna Harker, Polly Maberey, Crispin Bonham-Carter. It's also beautifully filmed on Super 16 mm film, and on location. The score is superb by Carl Davis. Excellent adaptation by Andrew Davies - preserving a lot of the dialogue and being so faithful to the story. I have some time for the 1980 version. But this one is just on another level.
If there was only one classic literature adaptation to take with you to a dessert island then this would be the one! Colin Firth has never been better than in this role. Jennifer Ehle is superbly modest and understated in her portrayal. Mrs Bennett is wonderfully neurotic and highly strung and Mr Bennett so resigned to his wife's histrionics and having some of the silliest girls in England as his daughters. For me Mr Collins stands out for his wonderful obsequiousness! Great observation about the post pond sequence. It is not about his state of dress but his being caught totally off guard, after trying to demolish his own issues of pride, in a sense he is so vulnerable in that moment, very much stripped of his armor. Nope, it isn't just you Jerome..it is that good! Thanks for the review. :) I watched it as it aired, and it was a sensation here in England at the time.
It's a great adaptation, made in the days when tv production companies were content to take the time needed to do justice to classic stories. Your enthusiasm for the series made this review a joy to watch.
The best however they did not include one of the best parts of the book where Elizabeth and Mr Darcy discuss when he first fell in love with her (after the second proposal) It just felt like they rushed the ending a bit.
Thanks for the treat! I just finished rewatching the series - it is my favorite of all time of any movie or TV show. The 2005 movie changed so much, like the relationship between Mr and Mrs Bennet. I was no fan of Mr Collins either. He’s supposed to be tall and more obsequious. However I don’t hate it by any means. The 1995 version is nearly perfect as far as I’m concerned. However for the first 3 or 4 times I watched it, I had two strong dislikes (which I have since gotten over!). I’m probably in the minority, but I thought Alison Steadman really overacted. She’s kinda funny and very silly, but so over the top I felt that it was her true personality and it was surprising that she could hide it from Mr Bennet so well that he would marry her. I know that she obviously got worse as time and life went on for her, but the screeching voice! Again probably in the minority, but the first time I watched this, I was shocked that all the characters were saying that Jane was the most beautiful woman there was. Was I missing something? She is a pretty woman, so I think some of it was the way she was styled. Her hair looked like it had tons of setting lotion on it and when the rollers came out, it wasn’t brushed so still had that shiny lotiony look. Her pale lashes really washed out her pretty eyes, and some very subtle makeup would have helped. Even Lizzy had faint eyeliner under her eyes. She was pregnant when filming so sometimes she had a very round face - certainly can’t be helped! It doesn’t bother me anymore. I just found your videos and I look forward to seeing more of them!
I agree! This adaptation is my favorite bc I can see why Elizabeth falls in love with Darcy. We get to know him much better and so we understand and are right there with her falling in love with him too. 🥰🥰
Thank you for the great review. I learned this version for the first time through a novel - Helen Fielding's Bridgit Jones' Diary - where Colin Firth was described as a perfect Mr Darcy. In Korea, the series were not available back then and later on when I was staying in the US, I finally was able to get the whole series of the movie and I remember I very much enjoyed them. It was no wonder that Colin Firth starred in the adaptation of the Bridgit Jones' Diary afterwards. I love his subtle facial expressions when he think of Elizabeth. Such subtle and delicate expression of emotions are more romantic than bold and candid ones of these days. For me, Mr Darcy is Colin Firth and Mr Rochester is Timothy Dalton forever.
When you compare it to the book, this really stands head and shoulders above every other adaptation I've seen. The miniseries format allows them to get the pacing right, which the movie length versions of the story have no hope of doing. Oddly, some old movie fans highly praise the 1940 movie with Greer Garson and Lawrence Olivier, and actually poke fun at the idea of this being better than that. However, those people are very much old movie fans first and not really literary fans. The story as Jane Austen told it is much more interesting than the 1940 film. I am an old movie fan, but I am especially a bigger fan of novels than of movies that take extreme liberties with the source material. The most questionable decisions in this adaptation of _Pride and Prejudice_ are in the casting, though at least everybody plays their parts well. To me, the biggest standout departure from the book in casting is that Mr. Collins is obviously much older than his character in the book. Mr. Collins was supposed to be in his mid twenties, but I think perhaps they felt that getting a younger actor would have made him too sympathetic for their purposes.
Mr. Collins is almost always played by an older actor for some reason, just like he's somehow almost always described as short in fanfiction, despite the book describing him as a tall 25-year old.
The wet shirt scene was nonsensical and took away from Lizzy's embarrassment at being found at Pemberley. Instead it played out that they were both embarrassed because he was underdressed. Huge mistake.
Great review. I have loved this adaptation above all others . My wife and I watch it at least twice a year. I love that theta it feels so natural. Also even after 30 or 40 viewings over the last 15 or so years, I also find something that catches me unawares. Recently it's the reactions of the minor character of Maria Lucas. Who is mostly looking completely spaced out at balls when she's not fretting about Lady Catherine's etiquette or when she's freaking out in Mr Collins apery. Also going of subject. Recently I watched the bluray of Tinker Taylor Solider spy with commentary. During this film commentary, Gary Oldman makes reference to Colin Firth being the most brilliant actor. He say's he works so hard that you can't see that he'd acting. Its so natural, But he's absolutely working his socks of.. The viewer just doesn't see the joins.
Yes! Been looking forward to this one. I really enjoyed this adaptation. This was actually my first introduction to Colin Firth, and have been a fan of his craft ever since. I dont know what it is about characters that appear to be cold and reserved but are actually genuine and good people beneath the surface that I find compelling, but they're my favorite character types, and I really appreciated Firths performance as one such persona. This review was a treat to watch. I can tell the level of sentiment for this one is right on par with your passion for Jane Eyre. Maybe its because the Bennett/Darcy chemistry share similarities with Eyre/Rochesters? ...I always thought they were similar, at any rate. Anyway, fantastic review!
Love this adaptation so much. Favorite line: “If you had behaved in a more gentlemanlike manner.” Oh how that stung! Oh, and Colin Firth’s Darcy painting is in the Jane Austin museum/tea room in Bath! I was surprised to see it while having tea and scones there.
Superb timing, I recently showed my mother this series for the first time. She hadn't read the book but this P&P is so faithful that I was okay with that. I've seen it a dozen times by now, though I only discovered it maybe two or three years ago. I view it as the most flawless of adaptations out there, or at least in the top 5. My favorite scene is after Elizabeth reads Jane's letter and Darcy stumbles onto her and tries to be comforting, but you can tell the extent to which he takes it upon himself that this situation happened, particularly when Elizabeth talks about how she could've made Wickham's past known. "To think she blames herself when the fault is all mine!" is so clearly what Darcy's thinking at that moment, and the gears in his mind start turning about how to fix all this, hence his hasty exit. Of course Lizzie misconstrues this as him wanting to distance himself from her "disgraceful" plight but she couldn't be more wrong. On the cheerier side of things, I love Mr. Bennet's response to Mrs. Bennet's demand that Lizzie marry Collins. His support for her is so lovely to witness and their relationship is probably the strongest in the entire story, as demonstrated in this scene.
We have such similar tastes which is why I love your reviews! This is one of my favourites of all time too, had a very similar experience to you. When I was younger we watched a version we recorded off the tv which had a scene mum and I both noticed missing on our most recent viewing. It was never released on the boxed set either. After Mr Bennet gave consent for Lizzie and Darcy to marry he says if there are any men for Kitty and Mary hes at leisure to recieve them, then it cuts to Mrs Bennet saying how wonderful Darcy is and how Janes wealth will be nothing to Lizzies. Dad probably still has the copy with that section still in it somewhere but no one online seems to remember it.
Oh, I remember it! I'm pretty sure it was part of both our 6-tape set and the dvd set. I'm not aware of there being any edited releases, but I suppose it's possible.
Omg, I know I'm late but I'm so excited you responded! I've even bought a DVD supposedly from the negatives and the scenes are still cut 'sigh'. I don't know why it bothers me so much. Also found out you are also a massive Phantom of the opera fan! I am also very much and was playing Christine in our local production when I commented!
Hello, I just read your comment, so does that mean the 1995 version’s supposed to have the scenes when Mr. Bennet mentions Mary and Kitty and Mrs. Bennet’s reaction to Lizzy’s engagement, but for unknown reasons they’re not in any home releases?
What a lovely review, Jerome, and an unexpected one. Thank you. For many years this was my favourite period drama. I DO still love it but, as I've got older, I've learnt to be a bit more critical of it. I suppose it's in response to those who have called this version DEFINITIVE - as though it has no faults and is entirely faithful. That kind of rose-coloured spectacle-wearing brings out the critic in me! Don't get me wrong - most of this adaptation is a delight. It goes for a slightly over-the-top (almost melodramatic) approach to the characters as opposed to the more naturalistic 2005. That's fine by me, as long as you don't mind an oily Mr Collins or a screeching Mrs Bennet. I don't happen to mind. Mr Bennet is very good, and FAR more preferable to his counterpart in 2005. It's important to remember that Mr Bennet is quite a toxic character. He disrespects and belittles his wife and most of his daughters, and encourages Elizabeth in the sport. He is a negligent husband and father, and his biting humour cannot and should not make up for his deficiencies. I think 1995 shows this quite well. Elizabeth is well portrayed on the whole, and Darcy is almost perfect. Andrew Davies did a good job, but he made a few quite bad mistakes in my opinion. First of all, he changed the sequence of Darcy's letter. The letter falls into two parts - the first explains why Darcy objected to Bingley's relationship with Jane, and the last part tells of Wickham's true character. By switching it round, the lasting impression that it seems to have on Elizabeth is annoyance rather than contemplation and soul-searching. Another mistake Davies made was not to dramatize Chapter 60 of the book. This would have been a lovely antidote to all the antagonism that went before, and would have made up for Davies' disappointingly wooden second proposal scene. But the biggest error he made was showing too much from Darcy's point of view. Although not written in the first person, P&P is very much from Elizabeth's POV. We should not know anything about Darcy's actions in bringing about Lydia's marriage until Elizabeth does. It should be as much as a surprise to us as it is to Elizabeth. This is the delicate structure of the book that Austen took such care to construct, and Davies tears it down with a sledgehammer! :)
Thanks, supergran! I'm glad you enjoyed the video, even if you are more nit-picky about this adaptation than I am inclined to be. I know there are some things I could have been critical of, but I just didn't feel like it. :) I agree that changing the sequence of the letter does affect the way she reacts, which is too bad because that chapter where she mulls over what he wrote is so brilliantly done. And it would have been nice to see more of Darcy and Elizabeth as a couple talking things over--their reserve slips away in that chapter, and you get a fairly clear idea of how good they'll be for each other and what their everyday married life will be like. But I suspect it got abbreviated for practical reasons.
There are very few adaptations of anything I would call definitive - The Alec Guinness Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy; the 1997 Woman in White; the 1983 Mansfield Park; the movie of Rosemary's Baby from the 1960's; the Little Dorrit adaptation with Matthew McFeyden and Claire Foy. I don't understand why anyone would do a remake of these - and those who have tried have changed the stories/characters so much that I wonder if they too felt it wasn't worthwhile to dramatize the books as written anymore. But I can imagine another Pride and Prejudice I would like. Unfortunately 2005 isn't it. It's so busy being beautiful that it forgets to be set in 1813. I don't understand all the young women I know who think Matthew McFeyden is the best Darcy; who wants to feel sorry for Darcy? That said, this adaptation is still my favorite. I completely agree about the letter, and would add that they also left out the line where Darcy says that if he was mistaken about Jane's feelings, Elizabeth's anger about that is justified, which adds a little humanity to him when it is most needed. I agree about leaving out the scenes between the second proposal and the wedding, and I think you are too kind about the time element: it's about choices, and Davies chose to add, for example, the fencing scene, rather than include this important scene from the book. Nothing would be lost if the fencing scene wasn't there, while something important is lost as it is. And I always imagine the scenes of Darcy searching for Lydia and Wickham shown in flashback while Elizabeth is reading her aunt's letter. Which Joanna David should have had a chance to read! And about the second proposal - I keep imagining what Darcy and Elizabeth would be doing physically - how she would stop and turn towards him, how he would then face her, a little embarrassed, and finally get up his nerve to ask again. Part of what works so well in first proposal scene is how they move and gesture and look at each other - Darcy almost sneers when he suggests that her answer would have been different if he had not expressed his doubts and scruples. There is such electricity between Firth and Ehle that the air fairly crackles. That should be in this scene too. By the way, a bit of trivia: David Bamber, who plays Mr. Collins, is also in The King's Speech, as well as Jennifer Ehle in a small role.
Jerome: Sorry if I sound nit-picky! It's just that I love discussing period drama and have so few opportunities to do so! :) Glad that you agree with some of the points I made. Oh, and SO looking forward to your next JE comparison!
Rachel: Hi! Completely agree about 2005. It isn't a complete disaster, and there are some good things about it, but there are two major problems I have. Like you, I dislike Macfadyen's Darcy. Darcy is NOT shy - he is a snob. Firth realized that and that is why his Darcy is so well observed. My other problem with 2005 is the characterisation of Mr Bennet. Sutherland plays him as a rather amiable eccentric, and not the acerbic and sarcastic man of the book. So glad you agree about the letter. The way 1995 tells it just leaves Ehle rolling her eyes and stamping her feet (something she does just a little too often). As for the second proposal and after, I was SO disappointed. I don't know what possessed Davies, and I've heard him say that he would write the ending differently if he could go back. Thanks for responding. Always a pleasure to read your comments.
Hi. I have enjoyed listening to your comments. In this adaptation of the novel (the best version in my opinion) the Lucas family home is portrayed as grander and more sumptuous than the Bennet residence, Longbourn House. Whether Jane Austen thought that, however, is uncertain. In Volume 1, Chapter 5, she merely tells us that Sir William had made a 'tolerable fortune' through trade at Meryton and had thus retired 'with his family to a house about a mile from Meryton, denominated from that period Lucas Lodge.' Evidently, the house had less extensive parkland than the Bennet home, for when Lady Catherine de Bourgh haughtily said that the Bennets had a "very small park", Mrs Bennet replied: “It is nothing in comparison of Rosings, my lady, I dare say; but I assure you it is much larger than Sir William Lucas’s.” (Volume 3, Chapter 14.)
Yes. I got the sense that when Sir William Lucas sold his business, he bought a very nice house, that didn't have a lot of land attached to it (and perhaps put aside better dowries for his daughters than Bennet too). But land was wealth in those days, so the Bennets may not have had as showy of a house than the Lucas family, but they were the second largest land-holders in the area, which made them more important.
a very enjoyable review. This is my favourite P & P, Have you seen Ehle and Firth in the King's Speech? Married to other people, they do have one good scene together.
The first time I saw the pond scene I thought, that Darcy had been so influenced by Lizzie (as in her tendency to do things that not everyone see as proper and her lust for life) that he takes a dive just for the sake of enjoying the moment as she does. Which I personally think makes him a little bit more likeable than other interpretations of Mr Darcy. And the scene after when they meet again, all the better. 😁
So glad you mentioned the floating head. I love everything else about this adaptation, but the floating head really takes me out of the story, however momentarily. Excellent review.
Thanks! Nicely done! Jane Austen is considered by some to have been the last great 'Aristotelian' novelist. This adaptation really is the most faithful adaptation of this book.
Joanna David (Mrs. Gardner), also played another Jane Austen character in her younger days, Elinor Dashwood in the 1971 Sense and Sensibility! And yes, THE LOOK! It's a good thing I got this set on DVD and not video tape, because I rewound and watched it so many times, I would have killed the tape!
My first real experience with Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" was this 1995 adaptation. I absolutely loved it from the first time that I saw it, and since then, I have no idea how many times that I've seen it. I know that it has to be at least a dozen times. It had inspired me to read the book. I'm now reading it for the 3rd time. Every other adaptation does pale in comparison to me, as well. I often wonder if I had seen the 2005 movie first, would I have comprehended much, or if I would have been motivated enough to read the book at all. I really doubt it! My sister's first experience with P & P, was the 2005 adaptation. She absolutely loves it and watches it all the time! Afterward, she watched the 1995 adaptation and told me that it was too long and that she didn't like it, which puzzles me exceedingly. She says that Jane looks like a dude! lol The actress was actually pregnant at the time, so maybe this may have played part to her confused misconception? I sent my sister a link to your review of the 2005 version. It absolutely expresses my views entirely, and I appreciate that you were mindful of trying not to offend fans of the 2005 film. I love the 1995 version too well, and know it too well, to be unbiased about it. As you say, it is Pride and Prejudice to me and I judge it against all other adaptations. It really does bring more of the book and bring the story to life than any of the other adaptations that I've seen. The 1980 version really pales in comparison to this one for me, even though it remains quite faithful to the book. It seemed like the actors were just reading their lines. I'm sure that I've probably seen the 1940 movie when I was a kid, but had forgotten it. After seeing the 1995 version, I watched the 1940 movie. Wow, it really strays away from Jane Austen's book! I really appreciate the creative talents of Andrew Davies and Sue Birtwistle. Perfect writing, perfect cast, and great performances! I must say that I'm absolutely obsessed with it, and I know that it's because of the time period, and how perfectly that the actors bring their characters to life. How eloquent the language! How I admire the conduct, and the scruples of the people of that time! I appreciate the research that there was to create an accurate portrayal of the attitudes of the people and also other aspects, like using period musical instruments. The 1995 mini series is a carefully and cleverly crafted work of art! It's funny, dramatic and entertaining. It was interesting from start to finish, the first time that I saw it, and I don't believe that I will ever tire of it. I like it better than the book, although I would have liked that they had represented a little more of life after Elizabeth's marriage, as in the book. I would have loved to have seen Lydia groveling at the feet of her rich, older sisters, when she needed money.
I love this version. My only quibble, if it can be called that, is that to me, the actor who played Wickham always looks slightly seedy so he comes across as untrustworthy in every role he plays. He's a good actor and I have seen him in other roles. But I'm always waiting for him to go bad. LOL. I think you're completely right about the swimming scene and the one directly after that. My favorite romantic scene of all time is "that look" over the piano. Makes my heart go pitty -pat every single time I watch it.
This. The best Wickham was in 1980 .Peter Settelen seems to be cut out to play this part.Nothing seedy about him, absolutely charming and you get why everybody fell for him.Adrian Lukis is a good actor still too old (he was 37) and not charming enough to conquest the whole neighborhood.
No, you were right the first time... it *is* just that good!! Fun fact: Among a fair few famous connections, Anna Chancellor, who played Caroline Bingley, is the 6x great niece of Jane Austen!! Fun fact for me: My 4x great grandfather was your typical George Wickham!!! Same period and even a ship's captain so likely flounced around in uniform too! A real charming scoundrel by all accounts but in reality really rather deplorable!!
Further to your comment, in the book Caroline Bingley comes from a family that is new to high society. It is thus ironic that Anna Chancellor is from an upper-class background, and that is also true of Marsha Fitzalan who played Caroline in the BBC's 1982 version of P&P.
There are videos that explain English Regency hair styles, including heat curling of hair (video shows that around Mediterranean area, this technique started in BCE times, as curling irons have been found in Mid E, N Africa and Europe---early examples include Minoan wall paintings of themselves).
Bloody marvellous review. I love this adaptation, and it is the best. I also like the more stylised 2005 film which makes a great fist of it in the time allowed. As an aside...Alison Steadman (the mother) is an absolute legend here;)
The actor who played Mr Bennett rembers this adaptation for one thing that put him off eating it for ages gooseberry tart they had to see him eating on set ad he said to the director he liked it so they kept on Serving it
My favorite version, too. Seems perfectly cast, to me. Had it on my dhs cassette years ago!! Then had to buy this version. I grew up at a time of the original Greer Garson and Laurence Olivier production. I had already read the novel and didn't mind at all that the 40's version was so different, and the costumes so not right for the novel's time period! Haha!
So, I’m going to be the lone person who likes the 2005 version as well as this version! This 1995 version is just so darn long. But, ok, so darn accurate as well. And that is its biggest strength. It takes the novel and stays faithful yet is cinematically appealing and not just talking heads. I agree 1995 P&P It a delightful to watch and made me a real fan of Andrew Davies’ screen plays. I think he has a way of fleshing out Austin’s characters in his adaptations and this P&P was a real tour de force effort. (Though his version of Sense and Sensibility is a very close 2nd to me.) My favorite parts were anything between Darcy and Elizabeth and anything between Elisabeth and Charlotte. I like this practical Charlotte and especially like the scene where she explains her married arrangement of keeping Mr. Collins out of her hair!
Don't worry! You're definitely not the only one who feels that way, based on what I've heard. And with all these adaptations, I kind of feel like, hey, the more the merrier. :)
Hands down, the 1995 version is the best adaptation out there! However, you should watch the 1940 version where Sir Laurence Olivier plays a formidable version of Darcy. 😊❤
I love this adaptation. Benjamin Whitrow is the best Mr. Bennet, I agree - with Hugh Bonneville in Lost in Austen running a close second, if that can be considered a valid comparison. And you're right - Colin Firth actually acts the part of Darcy, and that's part of what makes him so attractive a character. I actually like the proposal scene - I believe all Darcy's mood shifts in this scene, and the pacing and other signs of agitation and anger are very much what I imagine when I read it. I don't like the changes to Darcy's letter, though. And Joanna David is wasted as Aunt Gardiner - she's such a good actress, and there is really no reason so much of her presence and dialogue are left out in the Lambton/Pemberley scenes. There are a couple of things I like better in 1980's version, but this is my favorite. (But it bugs me that Elizabeth is the only one of the sisters who is fully made up - it makes her glow, but doesn't really fit.) Maybe Persuasion next? There are three adaptations and none are as inexplicable as the modern adaptations of Mansfield Park.
Oh, I do think the proposal scene is excellently rendered. I just feel a sense of dread as it comes up (prompting me sometimes to yell at Darcy, "Don't do it!"), and then I spend most of the scene wincing over their caustic dialogue. It's no doubt a testament to the strength of their performances that I feel it so much. :) I'm not sure which one I'll do next, but probably not Persuasion. I still feel like I reread it pretty recently and I want a little more time to go by.
@@Weiselberry Yes, it's a book that needs time to ripen. If not that, I'd go for Sense and Sensibility or Emma, preferring the former, though Emma has two good series adaptations.
I still re-watch it several times a year... specifically on a rainy or sad day. Yes, not a fan of the floating Darcy heads, which also look a mite dated, but they're over soon. And then I get to watch it again and hope that, somehow, this time, Anne de Bourgh will start talking and tell her mother what's really going on with her (maybe how she's got a crush on Charlotte Lucas). Also, I truly love the new remastered version which looks freaking amazing!
This adaptation is my favorite, I do like the other adaptations (the 1980 and 2005 versions) but this one remains the best in my opinion, I think it has the best cast and the best acting. I will always have fond memories of this adaptation because my grandmother introduced me to this adaptation and to Pride and Prejudice as a book. This mini series is the reason why I got into Jane Austen and read all of her books and watched adaptations of all of her works. Pride and Prejudice and Emma are my favorite books by Jane Austen
Jennifer Ehle is the only actor I’ve ever seen who manages to bring alive the expression, “her eyes were dancing.” It’s amazing and delightful to watch.
I still don't understand how she didn't become a huge star after this; she's so incredibly charming and charismatic and expressive, with just a small movement of her eyebrow or mouth, or even by somehow making her eyes dance, as you said. I was 12 when I first saw this adaptation, and in case you couldn't already tell, I developed a huge crush on her Elizabeth which never really went away! 😄
Nice review. I can only agree that this is the best adaptation and I think it will never be bettered. The actors in this did such a fine job. My only criticism is, I feel Mrs Bennet was perhaps a little too much over the top and preferred the 2005 film Mrs Bennet, fine actress though Alison Steadman is. There is so much subtly in the interactions between the characters in this version.
Mrs. Bennet is an annoying person. It's how Austen wrote her and it's how Alison Steadman plays her. The 2005 Mrs. Bennet is lovely and they definitely softened her and Mr. Bennet and their relationship. It fits with the more romantic feel of 2005 P&P, which is why so many love it. Here's a bit from P&P's text that focuses on the annoying and high-strung Mrs. B, which is pretty much intact in the 1995 script: Mrs. Bennet, to whose apartment they all repaired, after a few minutes’ conversation together, received them exactly as might be expected; with tears and lamentations of regret, invectives against the villainous conduct of Wickham, and complaints of her own sufferings and ill-usage; blaming everybody but the person to whose ill-judging indulgence the errors of her daughter must be principally owing..."Poor, dear child! And now here’s Mr. Bennet gone away, and I know he will fight Wickham, wherever he meets him, and then he will be killed, and what is to become of us all? The Collinses will turn us out, before he is cold in his grave; and if you are not kind to us, brother, I do not know what we shall do."
I have to admit, my favorite Pride & Prejudice will always be the 2005 adaptation. But that's likely because it's the first version I ever saw (even before I read the book). I just love the the film's atmosphere and music and cinematography. But I recently watched the 1995 version, because it's my mom's favorite, and I did really enjoy it! It take felt a lot more in line with the book.
I remember I was in England when this came out and the main criticisms were that Mrs. Bennet's manners were far too hysterical for the era. Also the "bosoms"... the English people felt that too much "bosom" was thrust on them to keep their interest in this old fashioned story. However it is excellent in every way, despite these issues.
So I had been asking a couple of people in London what they thought as this adaptation was presented one episode per week on BBC... first thing they would say was: "Ah... the bosoms!."
It's a good adaptation, and I like it very much. But the only advantage it has compared to the 1980 version is that it is one hour longer. But the 1980 version does all characters much more justice. The 1980 cast is nearly perfect and the dialogues are better. And the characters do not behave overly emotional.
Everyone's favorite, it seems. Having six hours to work with, and respect for the original material, does not guarantee a successful adaptation, but it sure helps. Where is your Sargadelos owl?
Also the scene with Mr. Darcy jumping into that murky lake. Yuck! It's nowhere in the book and Jane Austen's works do not have any suggestion of this type of thing. However I feel that women mostly were "played" by the creators of the series and unfortunately it worked as lots of us find it ... sexy. He must have stunk. I hope there were no brain eating amoebas about, as Ellie Dashwood mentioned here on RUclips.
Oh, I know! It doesn't look to me like an enticing pool for a quick refreshing dive. We often comment on it when we rewatch the scene. I love the awkward reaction afterward, but I have my reservations about the whole thing. Plus I'm sure women would still have been swooning over Firth's Darcy if they'd decided not to do this.
Hi! I know its a bit late but i'll do it anyway. It took me more than several tries alongo time to download this serie, and i still cant find it, can somebody help? Thanks!
The 1995 Mr Wickham plays his part perfectly. The Mr Wickham in the more recent version is not as deceptively convincing. I love both movies a lot. I really like Mr Collins acting in both versions (they are both so creepy yucky cringy in their own ways). Best thing about 1995 is the more complete story. You really get to know everyone so much better and feel the framework of alternatives of choices before everyone’s path through life. The recent version has beautiful cinematography over the 1995 and it’s short enough to watch in one sitting. Although 1995 is better, I usually hesitate to start watching because it’s so long. My thanks goes out to the special people in my life who helped me see, understand and respect this classic. Before their eager explanations, I never really understood this whole side of existence … now I get it and appreciate the meaning and purpose so well portrayed.
I also love how Liz and Darcy have such a meaningful part in the lives of the people they touch. Liz and Darcy are not royalty but they might as well be for how much they mean to the people in their lives. They are my favorites too (I have to remind myself this is a fictional story, even though I feel like I was there and was part of it. I guess it’s from watching so many times and seeing aspects of P&P characters in real life people).
So funny story about VHS - our copy was recorded off the TV and the scene where Lady Catharine barges in to talk to Lizzy was so fuzzy I didn't know exactly what happened till I got the DVD!
Never read this, amazingly enough. Great review and use of verbiage :). Also, I know I mentioned it once, but can you believe they actually made a Pride and Prejudice zombie movie? ...how do you feel about stuff like that?
Yeah, I reviewed it already--I think there's a link in the description? In general I wasn't a fan of that trend--Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters, Jane Slayre, Android Karenina... Pride and Prejudice and Zombies was the only one that I read (and completed) and I wasn't impressed. But I thought the film adaptation was decent for what it was, especially the second time around.
My greatest disappointment in this version of P&P, and really, I otherwise love it, is the second proposal scene. In the book, Mr. Darcy is described as being more reactive to Lizzie's acceptance. He's so passive after she assures him that she's changed her feelings for him. I wish there had been more emotion. And supposedly in the book, Jane and Bingley had disappeared (although they are still shown walking ahead of them in the subsequent shot), so I would think a brief kiss, or even hand holding, between Darcy and Elizabeth would have not been too outlandish. Also, I would have liked a scene of the two arriving at Pemberley or something more of their engagement or post-wedding life. It seemed so rushed once they got back together.
It is my favourite also, growing up with three sisters I had no choice but to watch it, it aired many times on BBC, I've always identified with Mr Darcy for one reason, awkwardness, if there was such a thing as an awkward race, I'm sure I'd finish first every time, I too also noticed the oddity of the hairstyles, Laurence Olivier's Heathcliff also had it i.imgur.com/QssNWbG.gif maybe it was a regency style, curl and all. Lol Fantastic review as per usual M.S Weiseberry ~
Haha, my dad had no choice but to see it too, even though it's not his kind of thing. :) I think all of us awkward, reserved people empathize with Darcy in a big way. Thanks!
Jerome Weiselberry Haha we do, we truly do :) Awkward, reserved club members assemble! quite reservedly to to stare intensely, spending an abnormal amount of time trying to decide what the correct thing to say to your fellow members would be, very awkwardly, that's me, very much so. I genuinely believe you are the best reviewer on this platform, thank you very much M.S Weiseberry, may your week ahead be very pleasant.
All the cast of this adaption were just brilliant but the actors who played Wickham and Collins were so believable even years later you know they are up to no good in whatever role they do patulary Andrew you shout at the TV Wickham up to no good again
I've watched this adaptation several times growing up, and it's certainly the best. The only other literary miniseries that rivals it is the 2006 Jane Eyre by the BBC as well
I am such a sucker for a good Romance . Particularly a BBC period piece. I always get weepy . Your explanation of "the look" is so funny quote:"If that does't make your heart rate go up just a little bit ; I don't know ? You might be dead." Brilliant Jerome Weiselberry and so on point !! I am chomping at the bit to watch this Pride and Prejudice (1995) Miniseries definitive adaptation of Austen's most famous novel and her work in general. Thanks for your fabulous insight's . Addendum: Oh my goodness !! I just checked amazon prime. Pride and Prejudice (1995) Miniseries is offered in HD 1080p . Commencing 5 : 27 minute binge 5,4,3,2,1-GO :-) .
Colin Firth almost fled from the Darcy part, but really, it almost boost his career to the stars. The creators made sure to show as many wet Colin as possible.
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"The Look", as you so aptly called it, is one of my four most favorite scenes in this wonderfully amazing adaptation to the book.
A second one is the second proposal, where both Colin Firth and Jennifer Elle emote in magical ways.
My other two favorites are Lady Kathryn Deberg's tour of the "prettyish little wilderness" with Elizabeth Bennett, and... the first proposal; I thought that scene was absolutely phenomenal.
I always thought that when Darcy said, "I shall conquer this," in the fencing scene, he was referencing his desire to overcome the negative traits of his that Elizabeth pointed out during the first proposal.
Love your review.
Thank you for the happy thoughts. Indeed!
The definitive adaptation, no doubt. The way Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth look at each other in the piano scene is pure perfection. Glad you mentioned it. ❤️
Be still my beating heart. The smoulder!!!
I absolutely love this series. So romantic. Yes, men do like watching good romatic movies, then we go split logs with our foreheads, build a deck or punch a bear in the face.
LOL, must restore balance!
@@Weiselberry Exactly! It wouldn't do stumbling around blaming Mr.Darcy for everything. They'd put me away. Balance is key.
I read the book for the first time as I watched the miniseries. My mom would watch the episode ahead of me and tell me which chapter I would need to read to for that particular episode. So I was immersed in the book and the miniseries simultaneously. It was a wonderful literary experience that I will never forget.
Absolutely loved your review!
absolutely agree with your review. Thank you. i have seen this adaptation many times and others too. even the 1967 one and this is the best. especially Mr Collins & Miss Bingley are spot on. All actors are well chosen.
Nicely done. This, too, is my favorite adaptation of P&P, although the competition isn't stiff. I do think it lapses occasionally into what the British call being 'twee' and the benign characters -- Elizabeth's aunt and uncle, for example -- may be a little too precious; that is to say, Austen's comic satire is compromised a bit by the demands of a TV mini-series, albeit a very good British one. On that note, I might recommend the late Martin Amis's 1998 essay on the series: He's considerably more critical than you or I might be -- for example, he deplores the performance of Benjamin Whitrow as Mr Bennet, which I greatly relish -- but he makes some interesting points about the production, and the difference between comedy and satire, and how the genius of Jane Austen, for all her provincial predictability, endures. Again, nicely done.
Personally, “Pride and Prejudice” (1995) is the best miniseries ever! I’ve watched it several times and it never gets old. The pacing is perfect over 5 hours with each character given ample time and their interactions.
Some of my other favorite miniseries are:
- Lonesome Dove (1989)
- Band of Brothers (2001)
- The Pacific (2010)
- Chernobyl (2019)
- Shogun (2024)
It's the best version. Just a great cast : Jennifer Ehle is perfect as Lizzie, Colin Firth as Darcy, Alison Steadman manages the character of Mrs. Bennet very well, Julia Sawahla, Lucy Briers, David Bamber, Barbara Leigh-Hunt, Susanna Harker, Polly Maberey, Crispin Bonham-Carter. It's also beautifully filmed on Super 16 mm film, and on location. The score is superb by Carl Davis. Excellent adaptation by Andrew Davies - preserving a lot of the dialogue and being so faithful to the story.
I have some time for the 1980 version. But this one is just on another level.
My favorite adaptation of my favorite Jane Austen novel
In 2024, I have to say that "Depressed Barbie" is not the only one to watch this great series many, many times. This adaptation is by far my favorite!
I've seen all the Pride and Prejudice adaptations and this one remains my absolute favorite.
If there was only one classic literature adaptation to take with you to a dessert island then this would be the one! Colin Firth has never been better than in this role. Jennifer Ehle is superbly modest and understated in her portrayal. Mrs Bennett is wonderfully neurotic and highly strung and Mr Bennett so resigned to his wife's histrionics and having some of the silliest girls in England as his daughters. For me Mr Collins stands out for his wonderful obsequiousness! Great observation about the post pond sequence. It is not about his state of dress but his being caught totally off guard, after trying to demolish his own issues of pride, in a sense he is so vulnerable in that moment, very much stripped of his armor. Nope, it isn't just you Jerome..it is that good! Thanks for the review. :) I watched it as it aired, and it was a sensation here in England at the time.
Alison Steadman looks like she was having too much fun playing Mrs. Bennet.
It's a great adaptation, made in the days when tv production companies were content to take the time needed to do justice to classic stories. Your enthusiasm for the series made this review a joy to watch.
Omg!! Thank you!! This was an awesome review!!! ❤
Thanks!!
I agree with everything you said. That is fairly unusual for me 😄
The best however they did not include one of the best parts of the book where Elizabeth and Mr Darcy discuss when he first fell in love with her (after the second proposal) It just felt like they rushed the ending a bit.
Thanks for the treat! I just finished rewatching the series - it is my favorite of all time of any movie or TV show. The 2005 movie changed so much, like the relationship between Mr and Mrs Bennet. I was no fan of Mr Collins either. He’s supposed to be tall and more obsequious. However I don’t hate it by any means.
The 1995 version is nearly perfect as far as I’m concerned. However for the first 3 or 4 times I watched it, I had two strong dislikes (which I have since gotten over!). I’m probably in the minority, but I thought Alison Steadman really overacted. She’s kinda funny and very silly, but so over the top I felt that it was her true personality and it was surprising that she could hide it from Mr Bennet so well that he would marry her. I know that she obviously got worse as time and life went on for her, but the screeching voice!
Again probably in the minority, but the first time I watched this, I was shocked that all the characters were saying that Jane was the most beautiful woman there was. Was I missing something? She is a pretty woman, so I think some of it was the way she was styled. Her hair looked like it had tons of setting lotion on it and when the rollers came out, it wasn’t brushed so still had that shiny lotiony look. Her pale lashes really washed out her pretty eyes, and some very subtle makeup would have helped. Even Lizzy had faint eyeliner under her eyes. She was pregnant when filming so sometimes she had a very round face - certainly can’t be helped! It doesn’t bother me anymore.
I just found your videos and I look forward to seeing more of them!
I agree! This adaptation is my favorite bc I can see why Elizabeth falls in love with Darcy. We get to know him much better and so we understand and are right there with her falling in love with him too. 🥰🥰
Thank you for the great review.
I learned this version for the first time through a novel - Helen Fielding's Bridgit Jones' Diary - where Colin Firth was described as a perfect Mr Darcy. In Korea, the series were not available back then and later on when I was staying in the US, I finally was able to get the whole series of the movie and I remember I very much enjoyed them. It was no wonder that Colin Firth starred in the adaptation of the Bridgit Jones' Diary afterwards. I love his subtle facial expressions when he think of Elizabeth. Such subtle and delicate expression of emotions are more romantic than bold and candid ones of these days. For me, Mr Darcy is Colin Firth and Mr Rochester is Timothy Dalton forever.
When you compare it to the book, this really stands head and shoulders above every other adaptation I've seen. The miniseries format allows them to get the pacing right, which the movie length versions of the story have no hope of doing.
Oddly, some old movie fans highly praise the 1940 movie with Greer Garson and Lawrence Olivier, and actually poke fun at the idea of this being better than that. However, those people are very much old movie fans first and not really literary fans. The story as Jane Austen told it is much more interesting than the 1940 film. I am an old movie fan, but I am especially a bigger fan of novels than of movies that take extreme liberties with the source material.
The most questionable decisions in this adaptation of _Pride and Prejudice_ are in the casting, though at least everybody plays their parts well. To me, the biggest standout departure from the book in casting is that Mr. Collins is obviously much older than his character in the book. Mr. Collins was supposed to be in his mid twenties, but I think perhaps they felt that getting a younger actor would have made him too sympathetic for their purposes.
Mr. Collins is almost always played by an older actor for some reason, just like he's somehow almost always described as short in fanfiction, despite the book describing him as a tall 25-year old.
The "wet shirt" never interested me much. But I love the following scene where they are so embarassed.
Yeah, if it were just Darcy diving into a pool it would be shamelessly gratuitous. You need that great follow-up scene.
The wet shirt scene was nonsensical and took away from Lizzy's embarrassment at being found at Pemberley. Instead it played out that they were both embarrassed because he was underdressed. Huge mistake.
Great review. I have loved this adaptation above all others . My wife and I watch it at least twice a year. I love that theta it feels so natural. Also even after 30 or 40 viewings over the last 15 or so years, I also find something that catches me unawares. Recently it's the reactions of the minor character of Maria Lucas. Who is mostly looking completely spaced out at balls when she's not fretting about Lady Catherine's etiquette or when she's freaking out in Mr Collins apery. Also going of subject. Recently I watched the bluray of Tinker Taylor Solider spy with commentary. During this film commentary, Gary Oldman makes reference to Colin Firth being the most brilliant actor. He say's he works so hard that you can't see that he'd acting. Its so natural, But he's absolutely working his socks of.. The viewer just doesn't see the joins.
You're right. It's absolutely perfect
Yes! Been looking forward to this one. I really enjoyed this adaptation. This was actually my first introduction to Colin Firth, and have been a fan of his craft ever since. I dont know what it is about characters that appear to be cold and reserved but are actually genuine and good people beneath the surface that I find compelling, but they're my favorite character types, and I really appreciated Firths performance as one such persona. This review was a treat to watch. I can tell the level of sentiment for this one is right on par with your passion for Jane Eyre. Maybe its because the Bennett/Darcy chemistry share similarities with Eyre/Rochesters? ...I always thought they were similar, at any rate.
Anyway, fantastic review!
Love this adaptation so much. Favorite line: “If you had behaved in a more gentlemanlike manner.” Oh how that stung! Oh, and Colin Firth’s Darcy painting is in the Jane Austin museum/tea room in Bath! I was surprised to see it while having tea and scones there.
Superb timing, I recently showed my mother this series for the first time. She hadn't read the book but this P&P is so faithful that I was okay with that. I've seen it a dozen times by now, though I only discovered it maybe two or three years ago. I view it as the most flawless of adaptations out there, or at least in the top 5.
My favorite scene is after Elizabeth reads Jane's letter and Darcy stumbles onto her and tries to be comforting, but you can tell the extent to which he takes it upon himself that this situation happened, particularly when Elizabeth talks about how she could've made Wickham's past known. "To think she blames herself when the fault is all mine!" is so clearly what Darcy's thinking at that moment, and the gears in his mind start turning about how to fix all this, hence his hasty exit. Of course Lizzie misconstrues this as him wanting to distance himself from her "disgraceful" plight but she couldn't be more wrong.
On the cheerier side of things, I love Mr. Bennet's response to Mrs. Bennet's demand that Lizzie marry Collins. His support for her is so lovely to witness and their relationship is probably the strongest in the entire story, as demonstrated in this scene.
Definitely in the top 5. Yes, I love the way they played both of those moments!
We have such similar tastes which is why I love your reviews! This is one of my favourites of all time too, had a very similar experience to you. When I was younger we watched a version we recorded off the tv which had a scene mum and I both noticed missing on our most recent viewing. It was never released on the boxed set either. After Mr Bennet gave consent for Lizzie and Darcy to marry he says if there are any men for Kitty and Mary hes at leisure to recieve them, then it cuts to Mrs Bennet saying how wonderful Darcy is and how Janes wealth will be nothing to Lizzies. Dad probably still has the copy with that section still in it somewhere but no one online seems to remember it.
Oh, I remember it! I'm pretty sure it was part of both our 6-tape set and the dvd set. I'm not aware of there being any edited releases, but I suppose it's possible.
Yes I remember that scene. Too bad it's been cut.
Omg, I know I'm late but I'm so excited you responded! I've even bought a DVD supposedly from the negatives and the scenes are still cut 'sigh'. I don't know why it bothers me so much. Also found out you are also a massive Phantom of the opera fan! I am also very much and was playing Christine in our local production when I commented!
Hello, I just read your comment, so does that mean the 1995 version’s supposed to have the scenes when Mr. Bennet mentions Mary and Kitty and Mrs. Bennet’s reaction to Lizzy’s engagement, but for unknown reasons they’re not in any home releases?
What a lovely review, Jerome, and an unexpected one. Thank you. For many years this was my favourite period drama. I DO still love it but, as I've got older, I've learnt to be a bit more critical of it. I suppose it's in response to those who have called this version DEFINITIVE - as though it has no faults and is entirely faithful. That kind of rose-coloured spectacle-wearing brings out the critic in me! Don't get me wrong - most of this adaptation is a delight. It goes for a slightly over-the-top (almost melodramatic) approach to the characters as opposed to the more naturalistic 2005. That's fine by me, as long as you don't mind an oily Mr Collins or a screeching Mrs Bennet. I don't happen to mind. Mr Bennet is very good, and FAR more preferable to his counterpart in 2005. It's important to remember that Mr Bennet is quite a toxic character. He disrespects and belittles his wife and most of his daughters, and encourages Elizabeth in the sport. He is a negligent husband and father, and his biting humour cannot and should not make up for his deficiencies. I think 1995 shows this quite well. Elizabeth is well portrayed on the whole, and Darcy is almost perfect. Andrew Davies did a good job, but he made a few quite bad mistakes in my opinion. First of all, he changed the sequence of Darcy's letter. The letter falls into two parts - the first explains why Darcy objected to Bingley's relationship with Jane, and the last part tells of Wickham's true character. By switching it round, the lasting impression that it seems to have on Elizabeth is annoyance rather than contemplation and soul-searching. Another mistake Davies made was not to dramatize Chapter 60 of the book. This would have been a lovely antidote to all the antagonism that went before, and would have made up for Davies' disappointingly wooden second proposal scene. But the biggest error he made was showing too much from Darcy's point of view. Although not written in the first person, P&P is very much from Elizabeth's POV. We should not know anything about Darcy's actions in bringing about Lydia's marriage until Elizabeth does. It should be as much as a surprise to us as it is to Elizabeth. This is the delicate structure of the book that Austen took such care to construct, and Davies tears it down with a sledgehammer! :)
Thanks, supergran! I'm glad you enjoyed the video, even if you are more nit-picky about this adaptation than I am inclined to be. I know there are some things I could have been critical of, but I just didn't feel like it. :) I agree that changing the sequence of the letter does affect the way she reacts, which is too bad because that chapter where she mulls over what he wrote is so brilliantly done. And it would have been nice to see more of Darcy and Elizabeth as a couple talking things over--their reserve slips away in that chapter, and you get a fairly clear idea of how good they'll be for each other and what their everyday married life will be like. But I suspect it got abbreviated for practical reasons.
There are very few adaptations of anything I would call definitive - The Alec Guinness Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy; the 1997 Woman in White; the 1983 Mansfield Park; the movie of Rosemary's Baby from the 1960's; the Little Dorrit adaptation with Matthew McFeyden and Claire Foy. I don't understand why anyone would do a remake of these - and those who have tried have changed the stories/characters so much that I wonder if they too felt it wasn't worthwhile to dramatize the books as written anymore. But I can imagine another Pride and Prejudice I would like. Unfortunately 2005 isn't it. It's so busy being beautiful that it forgets to be set in 1813. I don't understand all the young women I know who think Matthew McFeyden is the best Darcy; who wants to feel sorry for Darcy?
That said, this adaptation is still my favorite. I completely agree about the letter, and would add that they also left out the line where Darcy says that if he was mistaken about Jane's feelings, Elizabeth's anger about that is justified, which adds a little humanity to him when it is most needed. I agree about leaving out the scenes between the second proposal and the wedding, and I think you are too kind about the time element: it's about choices, and Davies chose to add, for example, the fencing scene, rather than include this important scene from the book. Nothing would be lost if the fencing scene wasn't there, while something important is lost as it is. And I always imagine the scenes of Darcy searching for Lydia and Wickham shown in flashback while Elizabeth is reading her aunt's letter. Which Joanna David should have had a chance to read!
And about the second proposal - I keep imagining what Darcy and Elizabeth would be doing physically - how she would stop and turn towards him, how he would then face her, a little embarrassed, and finally get up his nerve to ask again. Part of what works so well in first proposal scene is how they move and gesture and look at each other - Darcy almost sneers when he suggests that her answer would have been different if he had not expressed his doubts and scruples. There is such electricity between Firth and Ehle that the air fairly crackles. That should be in this scene too.
By the way, a bit of trivia: David Bamber, who plays Mr. Collins, is also in The King's Speech, as well as Jennifer Ehle in a small role.
Jerome: Sorry if I sound nit-picky! It's just that I love discussing period drama and have so few opportunities to do so! :) Glad that you agree with some of the points I made. Oh, and SO looking forward to your next JE comparison!
Rachel: Hi! Completely agree about 2005. It isn't a complete disaster, and there are some good things about it, but there are two major problems I have. Like you, I dislike Macfadyen's Darcy. Darcy is NOT shy - he is a snob. Firth realized that and that is why his Darcy is so well observed. My other problem with 2005 is the characterisation of Mr Bennet. Sutherland plays him as a rather amiable eccentric, and not the acerbic and sarcastic man of the book. So glad you agree about the letter. The way 1995 tells it just leaves Ehle rolling her eyes and stamping her feet (something she does just a little too often). As for the second proposal and after, I was SO disappointed. I don't know what possessed Davies, and I've heard him say that he would write the ending differently if he could go back. Thanks for responding. Always a pleasure to read your comments.
@@supergran1000 I always enjoy discussing these things with you too.
Can always count on you to make the most high-quality reviews of awesome stuff!
Aw, thanks! :)
Hi. I have enjoyed listening to your comments. In this adaptation of the novel (the best version in my opinion) the Lucas family home is portrayed as grander and more sumptuous than the Bennet residence, Longbourn House. Whether Jane Austen thought that, however, is uncertain. In Volume 1, Chapter 5, she merely tells us that Sir William had made a 'tolerable fortune' through trade at Meryton and had thus retired 'with his family to a house about a mile from Meryton, denominated from that period Lucas Lodge.'
Evidently, the house had less extensive parkland than the Bennet home, for when Lady Catherine de Bourgh haughtily said that the Bennets had a "very small park", Mrs Bennet replied: “It is nothing in comparison of Rosings, my lady, I dare say; but I assure you it is much larger than Sir William Lucas’s.” (Volume 3, Chapter 14.)
Yes. I got the sense that when Sir William Lucas sold his business, he bought a very nice house, that didn't have a lot of land attached to it (and perhaps put aside better dowries for his daughters than Bennet too). But land was wealth in those days, so the Bennets may not have had as showy of a house than the Lucas family, but they were the second largest land-holders in the area, which made them more important.
a very enjoyable review. This is my favourite P & P, Have you seen Ehle and Firth in the King's Speech? Married to other people, they do have one good scene together.
The first time I saw the pond scene I thought, that Darcy had been so influenced by Lizzie (as in her tendency to do things that not everyone see as proper and her lust for life) that he takes a dive just for the sake of enjoying the moment as she does.
Which I personally think makes him a little bit more likeable than other interpretations of Mr Darcy. And the scene after when they meet again, all the better. 😁
So glad you mentioned the floating head. I love everything else about this adaptation, but the floating head really takes me out of the story, however momentarily.
Excellent review.
Thanks! Nicely done! Jane Austen is considered by some to have been the last great 'Aristotelian' novelist. This adaptation really is the most faithful adaptation of this book.
Joanna David (Mrs. Gardner), also played another Jane Austen character in her younger days, Elinor Dashwood in the 1971 Sense and Sensibility! And yes, THE LOOK! It's a good thing I got this set on DVD and not video tape, because I rewound and watched it so many times, I would have killed the tape!
Haha the floating heads! My mom and I always laugh about those 😂
I fully agree with you! The music is excellent!
Can’t see another one. The chemistry is so good - (not so much in the 1980 version.)
My first real experience with Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" was this 1995 adaptation. I absolutely loved it from the first time that I saw it, and since then, I have no idea how many times that I've seen it. I know that it has to be at least a dozen times. It had inspired me to read the book. I'm now reading it for the 3rd time. Every other adaptation does pale in comparison to me, as well. I often wonder if I had seen the 2005 movie first, would I have comprehended much, or if I would have been motivated enough to read the book at all. I really doubt it! My sister's first experience with P & P, was the 2005 adaptation. She absolutely loves it and watches it all the time! Afterward, she watched the 1995 adaptation and told me that it was too long and that she didn't like it, which puzzles me exceedingly. She says that Jane looks like a dude! lol The actress was actually pregnant at the time, so maybe this may have played part to her confused misconception? I sent my sister a link to your review of the 2005 version. It absolutely expresses my views entirely, and I appreciate that you were mindful of trying not to offend fans of the 2005 film. I love the 1995 version too well, and know it too well, to be unbiased about it. As you say, it is Pride and Prejudice to me and I judge it against all other adaptations. It really does bring more of the book and bring the story to life than any of the other adaptations that I've seen. The 1980 version really pales in comparison to this one for me, even though it remains quite faithful to the book. It seemed like the actors were just reading their lines. I'm sure that I've probably seen the 1940 movie when I was a kid, but had forgotten it. After seeing the 1995 version, I watched the 1940 movie. Wow, it really strays away from Jane Austen's book! I really appreciate the creative talents of Andrew Davies and Sue Birtwistle. Perfect writing, perfect cast, and great performances! I must say that I'm absolutely obsessed with it, and I know that it's because of the time period, and how perfectly that the actors bring their characters to life. How eloquent the language! How I admire the conduct, and the scruples of the people of that time! I appreciate the research that there was to create an accurate portrayal of the attitudes of the people and also other aspects, like using period musical instruments. The 1995 mini series is a carefully and cleverly crafted work of art! It's funny, dramatic and entertaining. It was interesting from start to finish, the first time that I saw it, and I don't believe that I will ever tire of it. I like it better than the book, although I would have liked that they had represented a little more of life after Elizabeth's marriage, as in the book. I would have loved to have seen Lydia groveling at the feet of her rich, older sisters, when she needed money.
I love this version. My only quibble, if it can be called that, is that to me, the actor who played Wickham always looks slightly seedy so he comes across as untrustworthy in every role he plays. He's a good actor and I have seen him in other roles. But I'm always waiting for him to go bad. LOL. I think you're completely right about the swimming scene and the one directly after that. My favorite romantic scene of all time is "that look" over the piano. Makes my heart go pitty -pat every single time I watch it.
This. The best Wickham was in 1980 .Peter Settelen seems to be cut out to play this part.Nothing seedy about him, absolutely charming and you get why everybody fell for him.Adrian Lukis is a good actor still too old (he was 37) and not charming enough to conquest the whole neighborhood.
No, you were right the first time... it *is* just that good!!
Fun fact: Among a fair few famous connections, Anna Chancellor, who played Caroline Bingley, is the 6x great niece of Jane Austen!!
Fun fact for me: My 4x great grandfather was your typical George Wickham!!! Same period and even a ship's captain so likely flounced around in uniform too! A real charming scoundrel by all accounts but in reality really rather deplorable!!
Further to your comment, in the book Caroline Bingley comes from a family that is new to high society. It is thus ironic that Anna Chancellor is from an upper-class background, and that is also true of Marsha Fitzalan who played Caroline in the BBC's 1982 version of P&P.
I should have said 1980 version of P&P.
The tiny characters are delightful. I was even impressed by the waiter at the inn where Lydia and kitty “treat” their older sisters.
There are videos that explain English
Regency hair styles, including heat curling of hair (video shows that around
Mediterranean area, this technique started in BCE times, as curling irons
have been found in Mid E, N Africa and Europe---early examples include Minoan
wall paintings of themselves).
Bloody marvellous review. I love this adaptation, and it is the best. I also like the more stylised 2005 film which makes a great fist of it in the time allowed. As an aside...Alison Steadman (the mother) is an absolute legend here;)
The actor who played Mr Bennett rembers this adaptation for one thing that put him off eating it for ages gooseberry tart they had to see him eating on set ad he said to the director he liked it so they kept on Serving
it
My favorite version, too. Seems perfectly cast, to me. Had it on my dhs cassette years ago!! Then had to buy this version. I grew up at a time of the original Greer Garson and Laurence Olivier production. I had already read the novel and didn't mind at all that the 40's version was so different, and the costumes so not right for the novel's time period! Haha!
So, I’m going to be the lone person who likes the 2005 version as well as this version! This 1995 version is just so darn long. But, ok, so darn accurate as well. And that is its biggest strength. It takes the novel and stays faithful yet is cinematically appealing and not just talking heads. I agree 1995 P&P It a delightful to watch and made me a real fan of Andrew Davies’ screen plays. I think he has a way of fleshing out Austin’s characters in his adaptations and this P&P was a real tour de force effort. (Though his version of Sense and Sensibility is a very close 2nd to me.)
My favorite parts were anything between Darcy and Elizabeth and anything between Elisabeth and Charlotte. I like this practical Charlotte and especially like the scene where she explains her married arrangement of keeping Mr. Collins out of her hair!
Don't worry! You're definitely not the only one who feels that way, based on what I've heard. And with all these adaptations, I kind of feel like, hey, the more the merrier. :)
Hands down, the 1995 version is the best adaptation out there! However, you should watch the 1940 version where Sir Laurence Olivier plays a formidable version of Darcy. 😊❤
Where can I find this?
He's way too charming to be D'Arcy, they skipped the haughty but I love that movie too. Not faithful but great fun
I agree my fav too.
I went through the audiobook first, then the adaptation, it was a delight.
I love this adaptation. Benjamin Whitrow is the best Mr. Bennet, I agree - with Hugh Bonneville in Lost in Austen running a close second, if that can be considered a valid comparison. And you're right - Colin Firth actually acts the part of Darcy, and that's part of what makes him so attractive a character. I actually like the proposal scene - I believe all Darcy's mood shifts in this scene, and the pacing and other signs of agitation and anger are very much what I imagine when I read it. I don't like the changes to Darcy's letter, though. And Joanna David is wasted as Aunt Gardiner - she's such a good actress, and there is really no reason so much of her presence and dialogue are left out in the Lambton/Pemberley scenes. There are a couple of things I like better in 1980's version, but this is my favorite. (But it bugs me that Elizabeth is the only one of the sisters who is fully made up - it makes her glow, but doesn't really fit.) Maybe Persuasion next? There are three adaptations and none are as inexplicable as the modern adaptations of Mansfield Park.
Oh, I do think the proposal scene is excellently rendered. I just feel a sense of dread as it comes up (prompting me sometimes to yell at Darcy, "Don't do it!"), and then I spend most of the scene wincing over their caustic dialogue. It's no doubt a testament to the strength of their performances that I feel it so much. :) I'm not sure which one I'll do next, but probably not Persuasion. I still feel like I reread it pretty recently and I want a little more time to go by.
@@Weiselberry Yes, it's a book that needs time to ripen. If not that, I'd go for Sense and Sensibility or Emma, preferring the former, though Emma has two good series adaptations.
Rachel, I'd be interested to hear your response to my comment above. :)
I still re-watch it several times a year... specifically on a rainy or sad day. Yes, not a fan of the floating Darcy heads, which also look a mite dated, but they're over soon. And then I get to watch it again and hope that, somehow, this time, Anne de Bourgh will start talking and tell her mother what's really going on with her (maybe how she's got a crush on Charlotte Lucas). Also, I truly love the new remastered version which looks freaking amazing!
What I like most in all P&P screen adaptations are the closing credits... 😈
I'm of your way of thinking entirely.
This adaptation is my favorite, I do like the other adaptations (the 1980 and 2005 versions) but this one remains the best in my opinion, I think it has the best cast and the best acting. I will always have fond memories of this adaptation because my grandmother introduced me to this adaptation and to Pride and Prejudice as a book. This mini series is the reason why I got into Jane Austen and read all of her books and watched adaptations of all of her works. Pride and Prejudice and Emma are my favorite books by Jane Austen
Jennifer Ehle (Lizzy Bennett) was in a movie called "The Russell Girl" in 2005. She was excellent. I found it on RUclips.
Jennifer Ehle is the only actor I’ve ever seen who manages to bring alive the expression, “her eyes were dancing.” It’s amazing and delightful to watch.
I still don't understand how she didn't become a huge star after this; she's so incredibly charming and charismatic and expressive, with just a small movement of her eyebrow or mouth, or even by somehow making her eyes dance, as you said. I was 12 when I first saw this adaptation, and in case you couldn't already tell, I developed a huge crush on her Elizabeth which never really went away! 😄
Agree with every word 100%. And I was 12, too 😃@@korganrocks3995
Nice review. I can only agree that this is the best adaptation and I think it will never be bettered. The actors in this did such a fine job. My only criticism is, I feel Mrs Bennet was perhaps a little too much over the top and preferred the 2005 film Mrs Bennet, fine actress though Alison Steadman is.
There is so much subtly in the interactions between the characters in this version.
Mrs. Bennet is an annoying person. It's how Austen wrote her and it's how Alison Steadman plays her. The 2005 Mrs. Bennet is lovely and they definitely softened her and Mr. Bennet and their relationship. It fits with the more romantic feel of 2005 P&P, which is why so many love it.
Here's a bit from P&P's text that focuses on the annoying and high-strung Mrs. B, which is pretty much intact in the 1995 script: Mrs. Bennet, to whose apartment they all repaired, after a few minutes’ conversation together, received them exactly as might be expected; with tears and lamentations of regret, invectives against the villainous conduct of Wickham, and complaints of her own sufferings and ill-usage; blaming everybody but the person to whose ill-judging indulgence the errors of her daughter must be principally owing..."Poor, dear child! And now here’s Mr. Bennet gone away, and I know he will fight Wickham, wherever he meets him, and then he will be killed, and what is to become of us all? The Collinses will turn us out, before he is cold in his grave; and if you are not kind to us, brother, I do not know what we shall do."
@@vbrown6445 Thanks for the interesting reply. I take your point.
I have to admit, my favorite Pride & Prejudice will always be the 2005 adaptation. But that's likely because it's the first version I ever saw (even before I read the book). I just love the the film's atmosphere and music and cinematography. But I recently watched the 1995 version, because it's my mom's favorite, and I did really enjoy it! It take felt a lot more in line with the book.
Andrew Daviess did the MAGNIFICENT screenplay of Charles Dickens' "Little Dorrit."
My parents & I watched the hell out of this in the 90's.
Always a good go to.
Best adaptation.
My daughter (born the same year as this miniseries came out) and I have watched this miniseries so many times together! Definitely a favorite.
I remember I was in England when this came out and the main criticisms were that Mrs. Bennet's manners were far too hysterical for the era. Also the "bosoms"... the English people felt that too much "bosom" was thrust on them to keep their interest in this old fashioned story. However it is excellent in every way, despite these issues.
So I had been asking a couple of people in London what they thought as this adaptation was presented one episode per week on BBC... first thing they would say was: "Ah... the bosoms!."
Agree, to me Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Collins were too satirical, but still this is my favorite adaptation.
Jennifer Ehle is wonderful. I noticed Jamie Dornan had more chemistry with her than "Ana" in Fifty Shades.
It’s the best, absolute classic x
It's a good adaptation, and I like it very much. But the only advantage it has compared to the 1980 version is that it is one hour longer. But the 1980 version does all characters much more justice. The 1980 cast is nearly perfect and the dialogues are better. And the characters do not behave overly emotional.
Everyone's favorite, it seems. Having six hours to work with, and respect for the original material, does not guarantee a successful adaptation, but it sure helps.
Where is your Sargadelos owl?
Also the scene with Mr. Darcy jumping into that murky lake. Yuck! It's nowhere in the book and Jane Austen's works do not have any suggestion of this type of thing. However I feel that women mostly were "played" by the creators of the series and unfortunately it worked as lots of us find it ... sexy. He must have stunk. I hope there were no brain eating amoebas about, as Ellie Dashwood mentioned here on RUclips.
Oh, I know! It doesn't look to me like an enticing pool for a quick refreshing dive. We often comment on it when we rewatch the scene. I love the awkward reaction afterward, but I have my reservations about the whole thing. Plus I'm sure women would still have been swooning over Firth's Darcy if they'd decided not to do this.
Thank you! 1995 is unbeatable
Hi! I know its a bit late but i'll do it anyway. It took me more than several tries alongo time to download this serie, and i still cant find it, can somebody help? Thanks!
The 1995 Mr Wickham plays his part perfectly. The Mr Wickham in the more recent version is not as deceptively convincing. I love both movies a lot. I really like Mr Collins acting in both versions (they are both so creepy yucky cringy in their own ways). Best thing about 1995 is the more complete story. You really get to know everyone so much better and feel the framework of alternatives of choices before everyone’s path through life. The recent version has beautiful cinematography over the 1995 and it’s short enough to watch in one sitting. Although 1995 is better, I usually hesitate to start watching because it’s so long.
My thanks goes out to the special people in my life who helped me see, understand and respect this classic. Before their eager explanations, I never really understood this whole side of existence … now I get it and appreciate the meaning and purpose so well portrayed.
I also love how Liz and Darcy have such a meaningful part in the lives of the people they touch. Liz and Darcy are not royalty but they might as well be for how much they mean to the people in their lives. They are my favorites too (I have to remind myself this is a fictional story, even though I feel like I was there and was part of it. I guess it’s from watching so many times and seeing aspects of P&P characters in real life people).
The best one.
So funny story about VHS - our copy was recorded off the TV and the scene where Lady Catharine barges in to talk to Lizzy was so fuzzy I didn't know exactly what happened till I got the DVD!
Oh no, hahaha! I always hated it when something like that happened with VHS tapes. Must have been nice to finally find out what was going on!
ever see the Lost in Austen mini series? pretty good
Yeah, I saw it. I thought it was okay. I don't care much for most Austen retellings/prequels/sequels/etc.
This is -- by far -- my favorite adaptation of Pride and Prejudice.
Never read this, amazingly enough. Great review and use of verbiage :). Also, I know I mentioned it once, but can you believe they actually made a Pride and Prejudice zombie movie? ...how do you feel about stuff like that?
Yeah, I reviewed it already--I think there's a link in the description? In general I wasn't a fan of that trend--Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters, Jane Slayre, Android Karenina... Pride and Prejudice and Zombies was the only one that I read (and completed) and I wasn't impressed. But I thought the film adaptation was decent for what it was, especially the second time around.
Dito!😄
My greatest disappointment in this version of P&P, and really, I otherwise love it, is the second proposal scene. In the book, Mr. Darcy is described as being more reactive to Lizzie's acceptance. He's so passive after she assures him that she's changed her feelings for him. I wish there had been more emotion. And supposedly in the book, Jane and Bingley had disappeared (although they are still shown walking ahead of them in the subsequent shot), so I would think a brief kiss, or even hand holding, between Darcy and Elizabeth would have not been too outlandish. Also, I would have liked a scene of the two arriving at Pemberley or something more of their engagement or post-wedding life. It seemed so rushed once they got back together.
It is my favourite also, growing up with three sisters I had no choice but to watch it, it aired many times on BBC, I've always identified with Mr Darcy for one reason, awkwardness, if there was such a thing as an awkward race, I'm sure I'd finish first every time, I too also noticed the oddity of the hairstyles, Laurence Olivier's Heathcliff also had it i.imgur.com/QssNWbG.gif maybe it was a regency style, curl and all. Lol Fantastic review as per usual M.S Weiseberry ~
Haha, my dad had no choice but to see it too, even though it's not his kind of thing. :) I think all of us awkward, reserved people empathize with Darcy in a big way. Thanks!
Jerome Weiselberry Haha we do, we truly do :) Awkward, reserved club members assemble! quite reservedly to to stare intensely, spending an abnormal amount of time trying to decide what the correct thing to say to your fellow members would be, very awkwardly, that's me, very much so. I genuinely believe you are the best reviewer on this platform, thank you very much M.S Weiseberry, may your week ahead be very pleasant.
Haha, exactly! Or better yet, let's assemble in spirit from the privacy and comfort of our own homes! Aw, thanks! Have a pleasant week yourself. :)
All the cast of this adaption were just brilliant but the actors who played Wickham and Collins were so believable even years later you know they are up to no good in whatever role they do patulary Andrew you shout at the TV Wickham up to no good again
I've seen every adaptation of P&P ever made, and they all pale in comparison to this one, as far as I'm concerned.
I've watched this adaptation several times growing up, and it's certainly the best. The only other literary miniseries that rivals it is the 2006 Jane Eyre by the BBC as well
Possibly the earlier I Claudius also BBC also astonishing cast.
"Pride and Prejudice"?! 😨
I am such a sucker for a good Romance . Particularly a BBC period piece. I always get weepy . Your explanation of "the look" is so funny quote:"If that does't make your heart rate go up just a little bit ; I don't know ? You might be dead." Brilliant Jerome Weiselberry
and so on point !! I am chomping at the bit to watch this Pride and Prejudice (1995) Miniseries definitive adaptation of Austen's most famous novel and her work in general. Thanks for your fabulous insight's .
Addendum: Oh my goodness !! I just checked amazon prime. Pride and Prejudice (1995) Miniseries is offered in HD 1080p . Commencing 5 : 27 minute binge 5,4,3,2,1-GO :-) .
The BBC version is the best adaptation truer to the book.
You are so pretty!!
Colin Firth almost fled from the Darcy part, but really, it almost boost his career to the stars. The creators made sure to show as many wet Colin as possible.