Between high school English class and the numerous television and film adaptations of Jane Austen’s beloved novel, it’s safe to assume many of you have at least a passing knowledge of the conceit of “Pride & Prejudice.” With that in mind, we’ll skip the exposition in lieu of some thoughts jotted down during a screening of young Brit director Joe Wright’s mighty impressive rendering of the oft-rendered lit classic … blurbs, some or all of which may be coming to a newspaper ad near you soon: “Who knew a period piece could feel so fresh, hip and, dare I say, universally accessible? A macho man is as likely to dig this movie as men who know all the words and dance steps to ‘Macho Man.’”
“The cast is beyond fantastic... it’s beyantastic!” “Make room Ms. Kidman and Mrs. Coldplay … as the fiercely independent and breathtaking Elizabeth Bennet, 20-year-old Keira Knightley becomes the favorite for the Best Actress Academy Award.”
“The 18th Century English countryside has never looked more enchanting, nor the grand costumes of the day so authentic. Since we’re freely handing out Oscar nods in this review, let’s nominate director of photography Roman Osin, production designer Sarah Greenwood and wardrobe wizard Jacqueline Durran.”
“Hell, let’s go crazy … congrats on your Best Supporting Actor nomination, Donald Sutherland.”
“The best adaptation of a Jane Austen novel I’ve ever seen. If you see just one adaptation of a Jane Austen novel this year, make it this one.”
“If Jane Austen weren’t so dead, she’d be very, very happy with this film. And she’d certainly smell better, too.” (RATED PG. RUNNING TIME: 128 MINUTES)
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on November 11, 2005. Read the original PDF.