Superb adaptation

Rating: 9/10 (30 September 2005)

As someone who's read the book and seen the 1995 BBC adaptation (and enjoyed both), I was very impressed with Joe Wright's take on Austen's famous novel. Director and cast do a fine job of making this 18th century tale seem fresh and modern - the acting is first-rate from both leads, the atmosphere is engaging, the touches of humour just right.
There are some real moments of magic here - the arguing in the rain, and the dance where everyone but Knightley and MacFadyen disappear from view spring to mind. Yes, it's overly sentimental in places, and the time constraints mean that not all the characters are fully fleshed out, but these are minor quibbles. Above all, it reminds you what true love really feels like, and by the end you'll want to swap places with either Darcy or Lizzie (unless perhaps you already do own half of Derbyshire). A finely crafted piece of cinema.