You’re Wrong, 2005’s Pride & Prejudice is PERFECT

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In case you’re not following my reviews closely, here’s an interesting tidbit: On two occasions, I’ve started a piece mirroring Jane Austen’s famous opening lines from “Pride & Prejudice”: “It is a truth universally acknowledged…“. To express my affection for this tale would be an understatement. However, what makes Joe Wright’s 2005 adaptation, as written by Deborah Moggach, truly exceptional, is the tender and heartfelt essence that permeates every scene. It’s no wonder so many viewers have turned it into a comforting go-to film.

2025 signifies the 20-year milestone since the premiere of “Pride & Prejudice,” which was celebrated with a cinematic rerun to tap into its ever-expanding fanbase. In revisiting it this week for this critique, I attempted to appraise it with a perspective beyond my customary adoration and instead focus on what makes this Austen adaptation unique. Given that “Pride & Prejudice” has been remade and reinvented numerous times, why is the 2005 version cherished?

Wright’s Pride & Prejudice Pays Attention To The Details That Matter

It Goes Beyond The Hand Flex

After giving this film a moment or two of my attention, I believe I have found my answer, which extends beyond the famous hand gesture. The narrative is as widely recognized as any great love story, focusing on Elizabeth Bennet (played by Keira Knightley), the most independent of the five sisters, and the reserved, distant Mr. Darcy (Matthew Macfadyen). Their initial encounter is strained when, at a ball, Elizabeth overhears Darcy tell his close friend Mr. Bingley (Simon Woods) that she is not attractive enough to attract him. Predictably, she vows eternal animosity towards him, even as fresh evidence starts to alter her opinion of him.

This romantic story full of mix-ups, witty exchanges, and longing is now unfolding before us. Watching Pride & Prejudice for the first time, I discovered that it was Wright’s debut as a feature director, which made an even stronger impact on me. As soon as we hear the soft, initial melodies of Dario Marianelli’s music, playing while Elizabeth walks into and around her home, we find ourselves deeply immersed in her life and family. Wright shows exceptional skills in creating a vivid setting and well-defined characters by focusing on subtle details that enhance the romance or individuality.

The scene at Netherfield Ball seems particularly relevant here, as the camera moves among the attendees, focusing on characters we recognize, offering glimpses into their true selves. While everyone may focus on Mr. Darcy’s hand gestures (and rightfully so), it’s worth noting Bingley following Miss Jane Bennet (Rosamund Pike) and briefly touching her gown. Director Joe Wright knows that subtle, personal moments create character depth and romantic tension, which is why Pride & Prejudice feels so compelling.

In addition to the instances that seem surreal, such as Elizabeth and Darcy’s dance at Netherfield and when Darcy becomes entranced by Elizabeth upon delivering his crucial letter, Jane Austen’s “Pride & Prejudice” maintains a strong connection with reality. I may not be knowledgeable enough about history to comment on the authenticity of the clothing and hairstyles; however, I admire how they also serve as reflections of the characters and their situations.

Keira Knightley & Matthew Macfadyen Are Pride & Prejudice’s Heart

But The Whole Cast Is Just As Great

Netflix’s adaptation of “Persuasion” faced criticism as it modernized the heroine too much, altering traits that were central to her character in Austen’s original work to fit a 2022 persona into a story published in 1817. Conversely, in another interpretation, Elizabeth’s strong-willed and rule-defying nature could have been amplified to embody a modern “girlboss.” However, Emma Thompson (who played Anne Elliot) skillfully balanced her character’s independent spirit with a deep sensitivity, making her an exceptional leading lady for Austen adaptations. She flawlessly transitioned between tender and fierce moments, demonstrating why she continues to be a standout in Austen-inspired productions.

Her on-screen connection with Macfadyen significantly enhances the romantic appeal of “Pride & Prejudice,” and there’s a wealth of detail to analyze in Macfadyen’s future “Succession” co-star’s acting. One aspect I particularly appreciate about Darcy is that, beneath his pompous exterior, he’s essentially a bashful, introverted character, and Macfadyen skillfully suggests this hidden truth. With each viewing, I discover new layers in his portrayal of Darcy; this time, I noticed the surprised glance he gave when Elizabeth proposes that she and Caroline Bingley (Kelly Reilly) laugh at him, suggesting his delicate sensibilities.

The remaining actors in Pride & Prejudice deliver equally impressive performances. Pike convincingly portrays Jane’s quiet, gentle disposition, while Blethyn manages to make even the irritating Mrs. Bennet quite amusing. Hollander skillfully plays the awkward Mr. Collins, causing plenty of laughter and uncomfortable giggles, and the late Donald Sutherland provides a steady, fatherly presence, with his bond with Elizabeth being one of the strongest storylines.

Among the films I cherish deeply, none compare to the 2005 adaptation of “Pride & Prejudice.” Therefore, it’s possible that this review might seem unduly laudatory. However, I must confess, there’s an endearing charm about this movie that I find irresistible, and I suspect many others share my sentiment.

I find myself deeply drawn to the sincere yet straightforward portrayal of love in the film – there’s nothing quite as captivating as Mr. Darcy softly saying “Yes. Yes, I know” upon Elizabeth expressing her enjoyment of walking. Alongside its enchanting, dreamlike aesthetics, Wright has crafted a movie that I eagerly anticipate revisiting time and again. I have no doubt that in another 20 years, we’ll still be discussing this cinematic gem.

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2025-04-18 21:07