A very cinematic adaptation, definitely worth a look

Rating: 9/10 (3 October 2005)

I don't know what's with all those harsh comments. The standards applied here seem a bit unfair. Perhaps this is not an adaptation true to the letters of Jane Austen, but it captures an essential part of the story and unfolds it on the big screen in such a lusciously visual way. In the BBC adaptation, Mr. Darcy had all the extra scenes that explain his inner struggles and following transformations, but Mr. Darcy in this film is entirely colored by Lizzy's subjective perception. So that's why we feel a little bit blocked out from his point of view. However, Matthew Macfadyen is a very subtle and nuanced actor and gives much more than is required or allowed, for that matter. Seen from Lizzy's point of view, this story feels much more intimate and personal. I think the makers and the cast emphasized aspects of the story that are different from the BBC version. Although I'm a huge fan of '95 version and Colin Firth, I had no problem with this adaptation. To be fair, at least this film is much, much better than most films hit the theaters near you these days.