Romantic, Classy, and Very Delightful

Rating: 10/10 (13 November 2005)

Once upon a time there was a feisty lovely woman who was ahead of her time, and she managed to ruffle a few feathers on her way in her quest to find the love of her life. This would be a rather simplistic way to put in words what happens in this charming and bewitching film. It isn't the first time we see an adaptation of the Jane Austen title, but it is one of the times when we feel rewarded and very satisfied with its design.
It is hard to fail when the supporting cast an imposing Judy Dench, giving us another one of her powerhouse and scene stealing performances. What makes this film a joy to watch is the casting behind the heroine of the film, Ms. Knightley, who at 18 years old, can hold her own against one of the most formidable figures of British cinema. She does a very capable job in her handling of Austen's precise vocabulary, and she projects both a fiery spirit combined with lovely intelligence, and shades of alluring sensuality. There are powerful, quiet scenes in this film where all hangs around what the camera is able to capture, and it is when the chemistry between both leading actors flows that we know the film works best.
In addition, we have faithful portrayals of the rest of characters in this tale of social classes. There are marked differences between the wealthy class and a family that barely hangs on to middle class. The fine characterization of all the female archetype is something to behold. We are treated to range and variety, and consistency in the great performances all around.
There is much to admire in the love story (or is it stories). It has depth, feeling, intelligence, respect for its audience, and some of the most enchanting cinematography in a year where there is a wealth of riches for cinematographers. The detail in the camera work leaves you breathless in a few key scenes, and it's consistent throughout the film, where very nothing is left to chance. It is lovely work. The costumes and the art directions are also quite special and will probably be honored later this year.
Here is proof we can still go to the movies and let true talent shine through. I do admire celebrities and their tours to promote films. What I do treasure is seeing that the hype is based on solid qualities and not just the result of desperate attempts at creating make believe. Knightley made quite a splash in both "Bend It Like Beckham" and "Pirates of the Caribbean". She is only 19, and so far it looks like the best is yet to come. Austen would be proud of her performance, and we should be glad we have stars like her in our cinema heaven.