A&E’s adaption of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice is a film that remains very true to the storyline of the novel and to Austen’s abilities as a writer. Austen’s depiction of life and character development are well adapted into the Pride and Prejudice movie. The film also brings the story to life and makes it of interest to audiences beyond the book’s readership through the production details, the acting and the dedication to accurately representing the novel.
Pride and Prejudice Film Production
A&E’s Pride and Prejudice underwent extensive research during production, and it is evident in attention to detail in the film. Everything that is seen on the screen is made for properly telling the story, setting the scene and displaying a time period as close to Austen’s intent as can be.
All articles of clothing and accessories are tailor made to the clothing that they may have worn in Austen’s day. Elizabeth Bennet and her sisters, for example, are always seen in pale printed gowns, while the Bingley sisters are arrayed in expensive fabrics, vibrant colours and elaborate hats, showing the difference in the social status of the two families. The gardening and decor of the homes presented through the movie are well detailed with the furniture, the wall paintings, the books, the cutlery and even everything that is served at dinner fitted into the time period.
Besides the physical details that are seen in the movie, the A&E Pride and Prejudice movie includes all important plot twists in the book, as well as smaller details that may be cut out of other Pride and Prejudice film adaptions. A&E’s version strives to be as accurate a representation of the book as possible, and at some points quotes the novel verbatim. By leaving out none of these small details within each scene, A&E’s Pride and Prejudice successfully draws the audience into the film.
Pride and Prejudice Film Cast
Beyond the attention to small details that set the scene and draw the audience into the Pride and Prejudice story, the casting and the acting is well executed. The film stars the talented Jennifer Ehle as Elizabeth Bennet and the ever charming Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy. These two together play off each other’s characters much as the characters in the novel are presented.
The cast includes David Bamber as Mr. Collins, Mr. Bennet’s ridiculous cousin; Alison Steadman as Mrs. Bennet, the hysterical and nervous mother whose only goal is to marry off her daughters; Anna Chancellor as Miss Bingley, Mr. Bingley’s uppity sister; and many others. The interpretation of these parts give a vibrancy to Jane Austen’s well written and well loved characters that film audiences as well as readers can enjoy.
Of all the Pride and Prejudice films, the A&E version endeavours to remain true to the novel and to Jane Austen’s ability to represent life in the society in which she lived. It is a relaxing film that is full of wit, and a little adventure.
Michelle Wright - Michelle is an avid reader and writer, with a focus on book, film and music reviews, gluten free recipes, and fiction writing "how-tos."
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