Panache is not a plus in 'Pride and Prejudice'
by John DeFore
Following the lead of "Emma" and "Sense and Sensibility," which became arthouse hits during the mid-'90s Jane Austen boom, "Pride and Prejudice" aims to be this generation's definitive cinematic interpretation of one of the author's best-loved novels. But the filmmakers — director Joe Wright and screenwriter Deborah Moggach — hail from the world of TV drama, and should know that the small-screen is home to their biggest competition: Despite a pleasant cast and what appears to be an ample budget, this "Pride" is unlikely to replace the decade-old TV version (starring that ideal Mr. Darcy, Colin Firth) in the hearts of anyone but devoted Keira Knightley fans.
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Jane Austen's classic tale of love and values unfolds in class-conscious 18th century England, where the five Bennet sisters have been raised by their mother with one purpose in life: finding a husband. When strong-willed Elizabeth meets the handsome but snobbish Mr. Darcy, the battle of the sexes is joined.
Focus Features
'Pride & Prejudice'
Director: Joe Wright
Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew MacFadyen, Rosamund Pike, Jena Malone, Donald Sutherland
Run time: 127 minutes
Release date: Nov. 11, 2005
Rating: PG for some mild thematic elements.
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On the web
Official movie site
View the trailer
Trailers require
Quicktime
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution: B
"Knightley brings Austen's book to glorious, pulsating life."
Austin American-Statesman: 2 of 5 stars
"...doesn't capture the tone that has earned Austen such a following. The film takes the plot's dramatic elements too seriously and lets plenty of the dialogue's barbed observations drop flat."
The Palm Beach Post: B+
"... a visually attractive, literal adaptation of Austen's best-known work, cast with an emphasis on youth."
The Palm Beach Post "Flick Chick"
"... has both enough class and sass to attract anyone — even without the pop songs."
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