Pride and Prejudice

Hello all. Two movies in two days, not a record, but still awesome. Tonight I saw Pride and Prejudice staring Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennet and Matthew MacFadyen as Mr. Darcy, two people who couldn't loathe each other more, yet could not be more right for each other.

The movie is based off of the beloved novel by Jane Austen, which I am half-way through. The story is, as excpected, wonderful. I enjoyed every tortuous minute of people falling in love, then out of love and so forth. Knightley is wonderful as Lizzie, I can't think of another actres more suited to play her. MacFadyen in brilliant as the silent, brooding Darcy who is actually a sweetheart at his core. The supporting cast is great as well. Donald Sutherland is absolutely amazing as Lizzie's father. Just the right mix of humor and dicipline. And Brenda Blethyn is hysterical as Lizzie's over the top mother who's only aim in life is to get her five daughters married.

For what I have read, the adaptation is exemplary. I mean, scenes were word for word at times. I found it wonderful to see a film so richly taken from it's source material. As well, the relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy could not have been played out better. From their initial disdain for one another, to the incredible tension between them when they share their first dance. You are angry at them, and rooting for them at the same time. The climax of the relationship could not be better or more satisfying.

The directing is very good. The dancing scenes are directed with a continual shot from room to room which accentuates the movement of the people within the scenes, which I found very nice. Close ups are also used to great effect to show the characters emotions to their fullest. The score is also brilliant. Mostly piano, it is both exciting and calming.

Overall, an excelent film. One cannot help but leave the theater feeling fulfilled and giddy. A must see.