Pride and Prejudice Americanizes classic

Amanda Bates Guest Writer

The ubiquity of adaptations of Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice, including the definitive BBC mini-series starring Colin Firth and the modernized version Bridget Jones’s Diary, should be no reason to skip the newest film version directed by Joe Wright. For one thing, you would miss the ending that was deemed so racy by Austen’s standards that it was cut from the version of the film distributed in Great Britain. Presumably, this is because the United States has fewer rabid Austen fans who would take offense than England does.

The fact that the scene in question involves only a tender kiss and some lovey-dovey dialogue should make clear the kind of manners at play in Austen’s beloved tale of romance and society. This adaptation, starring the excellent Keira Knightley, famous for her roles in the very un-Jane Austen-like films Bend it like Beckham and Pirates of the Caribbean, remains true to the story’s spirit of propriety and subtle humor.

Knightley fits perfectly into the role of the fiercely independent Elizabeth Bennet, whose fatuous mother is hell-bent on marrying off her daughters to improve the family’s social and financial standing. Lizzie is beautiful, but shy older sister Jane falls for the wealthy Mr. Bingley, who moves into the neighboring mansion, while Lizzie herself develops a deep disdain for Mr. Bingley’s even wealthier friend, the stone-faced, conversationally-challenged Mr. Darcy. Eventually, of course, her hatred melts away to become affection, and the ending, when all of the obstacles are finally cleared, is one of the most sweetly satisfying you can find in a romance.

This Pride and Prejudice undoubtedly does its source material justice. In addition to the tight plotting and deft direction, the film is blessed with a charming cast that is delightful to watch on screen. Along with Knightley, who inhabits her spunky character with ease, the supporting characters are all well-cast. Donald Sutherland, as Lizzie’s father, is suitably wry, especially in his dealings with his chatterbox wife, and gets to deliver some of the best lines of the film. Jena Malone, best known for her appearance in teen movies like Saved!, makes the most of her small part as Lizzie’s youngest sister Lydia, whose boy-crazy ways pile on complications to the plot.

The most pleasant surprise of the film is Matthew MacFadyen, who emerges from under the shadow of Colin Firth’s iconic Mr. Darcy with his own skillful interpretation of the character onscreen. Even fans of the BBC mini-series will not long for the previous Mr. Darcy and will find themselves fully engrossed in MacFadyen’s performance. However, there are viewers that may miss the ever-popular wet shirt scene from the BBC mini-series, but they can revel in the debauchery of the final smooch under the stars.

This film isn’t heavy, ponderous stuff. It often seems so light that it might float off the screen. But for those in the mood for a charming and funny confection, the newest Pride and Prejudice should hit the spot.