iam.ollief1.com

I had never seen Pride and Prejudice until this evening, thinking it was a ‘chick-flick’ and a period drama. This combination does not usually whet my appetite, but the chance to see Keira Knightley? Well, that does give me an excuse to buy the film for the other half as a Valentines present!

It was actually a good story, and whilst I have heard many a story about the TV series with the ever-so dashing Colin Firth as Mr Darcy, we settled on the 2005 re-make.

The story is essentially about pride and prejudice – hence the title. Pride, because of a poor family trying to ensure their daughters are married to appropriate gentlemen whilst maintaining a certain level in society. (”Appropriate” gentlemen should read “appropriately rich”) And prejudice because first impressions do not always mean an accurate reflection of a persons personality.

Centered around one of the daughters and her mixed feelings for the masculine and broody ‘friend of a friend’, the story takes us gently through the trials and tribulations of young ladies looking for love, or at minimum wealthy, man to provide. At first, a young Miss Bennet (Knightley) is a little bewildered by the lack of conversation from Mr Darcy. He refuses to dance at a ball which is considered rather rude at such a time but being a lady not to mess with, Miss Bennet does let it bother her too much.

As the story progresses (along with feelings), we learn that whilst Mr Darcy is certainly a very dashing chap, he has a darker side and comes across as being a reserved (but confident) gentleman. There are times when you cannot help but hate the man for doing such horrible things, but as always, there are reasons behind these acts and all comes good in the end.

Basically, it is a “treat them mean, keep them keen” story. But with heaving bosoms and polite language.

All in all, a good film, but it does make me want to see the TV series now. I have seen Colin Firth in a few films, and now I can’t help but want to see him play this slightly dark but overly masculine role.