Could have been much better

Rating: 5/10 (1 December 2005)

Adapting a novel to film is always tricky. Especially one that has already been given such comprehensive treatment as Pride & Prejudice has already received in the previous BBC and A&E versions.
However, there were so many things that could have been done better even with the restricted time constraints.
The dialog: The actual lines adapted from the novel jarred harshly with those that were supplied by the script writer. Phrases were used that were obviously at odds with the time period portrayed. The actors appeared to be speaking at break neck speed most of the time.
The setting: While the Bennets were not well off, they were not peasantry. Furthermore, even if they were as poor as portrayed, poverty is not an excuse for mess, filth and general untidiness.
Character Development Most of the comedy that is a hallmark of Jane Austen's side characters was stripped. Mr. Collins and Lady Catherine could not be viewed as funny despite their repellent personalities.
Most of the Characters behaved with mannerisms that were distinctly wrong for both their time periods and who they were supposed to be as people.
Miss Knightly's Elizabeth was far to aggressive in many of her behaviors. People didn't so easily invade one another's body space as she does in the scene where she rejects Darcy's proposal. Elizabeth's mannerisms should have been in contrast to that of her younger sisters. And (this is the fault of the script) she would not have said anything actually cruel to her mother.
Mr. McFadden's Darcy looked like an advertisement of someone in serious need of antidepressants rather than an attitude adjustment.
Charlotte Lucas was written as desperate rather than practical.
A few positives that keep it from being a total bomb. The music and scenery were lovely.
A few scenes worked very well. For example, when Lizzie and Darcy meet at his home. The awkwardness felt very genuine yet sweet.
Mr. and Mrs. Bennets relationship was more kindly portrayed than in previous adaptations.