Much better than the book
I am a Jane Austen fan. I also enjoy reading PD James, but in my opinion, her spare writing failed to make her sequel to "Pride and Prejudice" an enjoyable read. Surprisingly, and pleasingly, this adaptation is a great improvement on the book, and is an enjoyable piece of romantic drama.The screenwriter moved Elizabeth and Darcy's relationship back to the core of this story, where it belongs. In fact, the screenwriter ensured that this entire story focused on the relationships between different couples, and the impact of societal norms, to great success. PD James, in contrast, focused on the actual crime, and individual characters such as Wickham and Col Fitzwilliam. The screenplay has a careful examination of the relationship between Darcy and his sister Georgiana, and the damage inflicted on that relationship by Wickham's original sin. Austen did not travel down this byway, but it is interesting.
The screenwriter also took the opportunity to add back in the characters of Mrs Bennett and Lady Catherine de Bourgh and to use their magnificent characters to create scenes that add little to the plot, but give us a chance to enjoy these legendary grands dames of literature. The comedy generated by Lydia and her mother is great fun, and adds some much needed levity.
The reveal of the instigator of Captain Denny's death is well handled, and the identity of the individual was a genuine surprise to someone watching with me, who had not read the book. But, in retrospect, it was not surprising - which is the hallmark of a good murder mystery.
As befits a BBC programme, the photography is beautiful, and the costumes and settings are gorgeous.
However, it's a long way from perfection. The screenwriter needlessly added some elements of overwrought drama - especially (spoiler alert) Elizabeth's overnight drive through the forest and dash to the gallows to save Wickham's life.
Others have commented on the use of contemporary language, which was disappointing, as so much effort was expended to have correct costumes and set design. However, the dialogue as not as grating as the casting of Elizabeth Bennett. Alone among the cast, she carries herself as a creature of the 21st century. Her walk and mannerisms are entirely inappropriate for the times. It should also be noted that she alone of the Bennett girls seems to have lost her bloom rather quickly. I understand that Darcy came to love Elizabeth for her fine mind and quick wit, but the book is clear that all the Bennett girls (with the exception of Mary) were English roses. This actress is more of a lily - striking and elegant, but lacking warmth.
Still, a pleasant experience and a far happier experience than reading the original book.
score 7/10
caitriona-shanahan 29 October 2014
Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw3114026/14554
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