Simply a lovely film and not just for the girls

Rating: 9/10 (17 September 2005)

Just have to say, as a 27 year old bloke i required a bit of arm-twisting to go to see this. Having taken a sabbatical from 'chick flicks' since my last season of seeing a lady. But like the fake-reluctant wedding guest making his way to the dance floor (UK Peter Kay fans know what i mean) i was captivated from the off.
From the opening dreamy shot of sunrise accompanied by the first chords of what is a beautiful classical soundtrack, this is a fine example of wonderful film-making combined with a really big heart.
As most will know this timeless Austen classic is essentially the most plagiarised story modern cinema knows as it provides the framework for every single romantic comedy you've seen.
Despite this there is a freshness about this movie as it teases great humour and warmth from many of the main characters. The director maintains a palpable tension prior to the inevitable 'Happily ever after' despite the certainty of the final destination. The journey before we get there is wonderful.
From the lovable Bingley to the almost 'David Brent' like Mr. Collins there are many laugh out loud moments.
For me, and no doubt most blokes who can give their machismo the night off, the funniest elements were seeing every awkward moment you may ever have had the misfortune of encountering first hand right there on the screen before you. From Mr. Collins' totally misguided advances to Bingley and Darcy in a fluster as they struggle to muster the 'L' word.
Naturally Keira Knightly plays a well-pitched Lizzy with just the right amount of independent spirit paired with her unflinching quest for love above all.
As Darcy, Matthew MacFadyen, does rather overdo the brooding, skulky approach, looking positively disinterested with proceedings early on, though the ladies may disagree. He resembles Oscar the Grouch early on and becomes much more the smouldering type as scenes develop.
Donald Sutherland is the stand-out performance bringing one of the most convincing portrayals of fatherly love to the screen you will see, and though some will say the ending is cut short it is his love that gives this film it's fitting parting shot.
In all honesty, the ladies are probably going to see this anyway, but fellas, seriously this is a lovely, funny film that will leave you feeling all warm and glowy without the sickly aftertaste of so many of its imitators. The best compliment I can give this film is it made me want to be more romantic and i couldn't even say who with. A lovely film.