It's All Good

Rating: 9/10 (25 November 2005)

I came to the movie theater with much anticipation, having not remembered earlier versions with the same title, not because I didn't see them, but just because they weren't, in my opinion, very memorable. Prior to watching the movie, I was also upset that one leading critic did not like the movie, while his partner, of reputably greater notoriety and accomplishment,(in my opinion)liked the movie and especially Keira Knightley's performance as Liz. I am happy to say, I recommend the movie on all fronts.
I do not take issue with aspects of the film, which were purposely staged(to me). Among those issues were the writers pension to make the film a coming out for Knightley by giving her a plethora of one-liners, an untimely proposal, and Liz's double drubbing of Lady Catherine, perfectly played by Dame Dench, which decorum would have hardly stood for in that day (the book was a bit more delicate, appropriate to the times). Why do I excuse these annoyances (as I would call them)? Simply because the actors and actresses make this move a memorable one, one fitting to the story told by Austen.
Staged or not, Knightley delivers an exciting, mesmerizing performance, which certainly sold me on true emotions. I must say there is one disappointment near the end of the film, which, in my opinion, keeps the film from being even better.
Kudos to McFayden (who provides one GREAT entrance), Sutherland for a flawless scene with Knightley, and Rosamund Pike, who plays Liz's sister Jane, for delivering a refreshing version of a worn-out, antiquated line, in addition to playing "up" to her role in the movie.
In the end, there is much pride with little prejudice, as this viewer sees it. That makes two wrongs in a row for one half of the critic's film making version of the dynamic duo.