Not the same without Colin

Rating: 6/10 (9 April 2007)

Had I never seen the '95 mini series of Pride & Prejudice, I think I would have thoroughly enjoyed this film. But I found myself comparing every scene to the stunning performances of Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle, and frankly, it did not compare.
Macfadyen's performance was commendable, however, I did not feel that he conveyed enough emotion. True enough, Darcy is meant to be withdrawn and "strong and silent," as it were, but I think that for the majority of the film - even in the kiss scene - he simply looked bored.
Compared to the 95 version, where Firth struck up the balance perfectly. He showed pride and nobility, but we can see undercurrents of emotion through his eyes, smouldering looks at Lizzie, and flashes of good humour.
I also felt that the film did not capture the essence of the period. It quite irritated me that Keira wore her hair down in many scenes, as women of that status and age in that period simply would not have done in public. I also felt that we see too much of Lizzie and Darcy - the book focuses on many different story lines, and many of the more minor characters were completely overlooked, particularly Mr Bennett, who has an important role, and Mr Collins, who is not nearly so odious as I imagine him to be through reading the book.
However, I have given the film a commendable 6 out of 10, because I feel that it stuck to the storyline quite faithfully, and the settings were quite beautiful. I particularly enjoyed the scene at the Meryton Assembly Rooms, which captured the novel very well. The film is well worth watching for Knightley's performance; I thought she made a very good Lizzie.
But as good as this film is, if you want true Pride & Prejudice - stick to the 95 version.