My New Favorite Movie

Rating: 10/10 (23 June 2006)

I loved this movie! It is quite possibly my new favorite. It is beautifully done. I really cannot say enough good about it.
Matthew Macfadyen is the absolute PERFECT Darcy; sorry Colin Firth fans. For the record, I also like the BBC's version, but prefer this one.
The acting was superb. I would not change a single character; the casting really was 'right on.' Brenda Blethyn (Mrs. Bennett), Donald Sutherland (Mr. Bennett), and Tom Hollander (Mr. Collins) were all excellent choices. Judi Dench's Lady Catherine is superb as is to be expected. I loved her late-night visit!
The cinematography is incredible! I've never seen a more beautiful scene than the one when Darcy declares that Elizabeth has "bewitched him body and soul" (sigh!). The sun is just rising behind them. The settings and costumes were gorgeous.
The script is a loving interpretation of Austen's text. I disagree wholeheartedly with other reviews who think Austen would be "spinning in her grave." I love Austen's books and feel this movie is a compliment to her genius.