Mesmorising & enchanting to watch

Rating: 10/10 (1 June 2006)

This film was my very first taste of Pride & Prejudice it had a huge effect on me; I was absolutely memorised by it! I loved this film and find that it becomes even more amazing with every viewing, as I discover all the hidden details that make it so rich and enchanting. Of all the films I have seen, this has affected me like no other; I walked out the cinema feeling all warm inside and still get that feeling every time I watch it! Perhaps some fans of the 1995 mini-series will find this movie so different that they won't like it and I agree that it doesn't remain absolutely faithful to every detail of the book, but it is necessary for a film in the year 2005 to keep it fresh. It is also hard to get one book into just over two hours of film. Personally, I had no problem at all with it and didn't fell it was 'rushed' in any way. I suggest people who have read the book or seen the 1995 version watch this film with an open mind to enjoy it as a good two hours of entertainment and not to expect a chapter-by-chapter review! The casting was excellent with lead Keira Knightley providing a very strong and lively Elizabeth Bennet and Matthew MacFadyen perfectly showing Mr Darcy's struggle and vulnerability. Again I find that after buying the DVD and watching it many times that there are so many subtle looks from him that you may miss on first viewing that gives the character a new depth. Other excellent performances come from Brenda Blethyn as Mrs Bennet and Rosamund Pike, Talulah Riley, Jena Malone and Carey Mulligan as the Bennet daughters who managed to portray an excellent sense of sisterly love! Generally, I thought the casting was flawless and couldn't see many weaknesses at all with it. Perhaps one of the best things about this film is its cinematography and filming. There are epic shots of the English countryside that take your breath away and certain scenes done entirely in one shot, sweeping through the different parts of a home creating a truly unique sense of being really in the film. The script is excellent with some memorable lines and very funny moments throughout the film, mainly in scenes with Mr Collins or Mrs Bennet but surprisingly with scenes featuring Mr Darcy too, when he shows his awkward and vulnerable side that's is so sweet it's funny. The soundtrack to this film by Dario Marianelli is again one more thing that makes this film so brilliant. Just to listen to the music alone is enjoyable but with the film it adds to the atmosphere in a way that is truly amazing. I suggest that all should go and see this film and as for the matter of it being a "girl's film", I say to all the men out there to forget any sense of manliness for two hours and go and see it. I know that some men loved this film so it's worth a try! All-in-all, as you can all tell, I adored this film and it has been the start for my love for Jane Austen. It's one of those rare films that I can watch again and again with family or friends and enjoy it more every time. Well done to everyone involved with creating this masterpiece of a film and thank you!