At the beginning of the new millennium, director Joe Wright brought to the big screen the umpteenth film adaptation of ‘Pride and Prejudice’ (2005), A brilliant example of how to successfully translate a classic literary work into the visual language of contemporary cinema.. Based on the acclaimed novel of the same name by Jane Austen released in 1813, the film follows the story of Lizzie Bennet, played by Keira Knightley, an intelligent and determined young woman who must deal with the social and romantic expectations of 19th century England. Her relationship with the haughty but noble Mr. Darcy, played by Matthew Macfadyen, is the central axis of a plot that combines romance, social criticism and a touch of humor. The film is currently available in the Netflix catalog.
The film received a warm reception on the international awards and film festival circuit. The film received four Oscar nominations.in the categories of Best Leading Actress for Keira Knightley, Best Original Score for Dario Marianelli, Best Production Design and Best Costume Design, but ultimately failed to win any Oscars. Its run at the Golden Globes was similar, as it received two nominations in the categories of Best Comedy or Musical Film and again Best Leading Actress in a Comedy or Musical for Keira Knightley, but ultimately left the gala empty-handed. The film received six nominations for the BAFTA Awards, where it finally won the award for Joe Wright for Best Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer.
From a technical point of view, the film stands out for its Exquisite art direction and photography, which accurately capture the setting and aesthetics of the time. Wright uses long, carefully composed shots to immerse the viewer in 19th century English landscapes and mansions. The music, composed by Dario Marianelli, masterfully complements the visual narrative.
The cast of ‘Pride and Prejudice’ is led by the impressive work of Keira Knightleywhose portrayal of Lizzie Bennet received praise for its freshness and vigor. Matthew Macfadyen brings depth to the enigmatic Mr. Darcy, while actors such as Donald Sutherland, Brenda Blethyn, Judi Dench and Rosamund Pike round out a remarkable cast that brings the novel’s supporting characters to life with charisma and credibility. The chemistry between Knightley and Macfadyen, crucial to the love story, is palpable and moving.
Fotogramas’ review of ‘Pride and Prejudice’ stated that “beyond the indisputable, undeniable artistic values of ‘Pride and Prejudice’, what Jane Austen wrote remains terribly modern. The description of its characters and conflicts, absolutely current. It is precisely in them where the triumph of the adaptation lies: Wright explains the story to the rhythm of a dance, he manages to make the dialogues not seem like ancient prose but rather sweetly recited verse, and he illuminates not with technical artifices, but with the beauty and freshness of Keira Knightley, a true surprise who brings forward, without pouting, the heroic Elizabeth.”
