Purists Beware... the Rest of Us Can Enjoy

Rating: 9/10 (15 January 2006)

This is easily Keira Knightley's best project to date, largely because of the timeless character of Lizzie Bennet, the intelligence of the script, and a supporting cast of unsurpassed talent. All the players are flawless. And the director, an old pro from the BBC, is full of inventive ideas that will tickle you.
Purists will kvetch. But this movie takes chances with a classic ... in an unexpected way, it reminded me of watching a Godard or Altman flick for the first time, wondering what they'd think of next. The landscapes are stunning and often reminiscent of "Barry Lyndon," but without the self-important glossiness Kubrick imparted.
It is difficult to single out anyone, but I predict that Rosamund Pike, who plays the eldest sister Jane, may emerge as the Next Big Thing.
And Donald Sutherland and Brenda Bleythen make you wish there'd be a sequel: "Mr and Mrs Bennet," about the empty nest they occupy after the girls leave home. Sutherland has two scenes with Knightley that will glisten your eye, and his sneaky performance inspires tired fathers everywhere to be better parents.