Pride, Prejudice & Mistletoe: A Joyful Spin on the Romance Icon
One of the most popular things to do in contemporary cinema is re-tool classic literature. None is more popular than Pride and Prejudice. It’s no wonder then that Hallmark has two Austen-inspired romances on their slate this season. The second of which is this, Pride, Prejudice and Mistletoe, a new festive romance with Lacey Chabert.
Pride, Prejudice and Mistletoe (2018) Hallmark Review
Darcy Fitzwilliam (Chabert) loves her work. As a financial advisor, she feels whole in her work, but she wants to do more. She wants to help those who might not be able to afford the initial fees because she believes there is value in this work. Unfortunately, her firm’s partners don’t have this same conviction. As she prepares to leave New York for Christmas in her hometown, Pemberley Ohio, she tries to put work on hold. For a little while.
While home, Darcy works to help her mother plan an annual silent auction gala event. When one thing after another hits a snag in their last minute preparations, Darcy reconnects with her high school debate team nemesis, Luke Bennet (Brendan Penny), a man who is now a talented caterer. The problem is, he’s exactly the one person Darcy would rather not work with!
Anytime there’s a re-make of a Jane Austen classic, I’m curious. Some of the spins aren’t among my favorite, but some, as a form of escapism have become favorites. This one falls somewhere in the middle, but is certainly one I’d re-watch. The story is different than its original inspiration, but it contains all the usual markers so we recognize it for what it is.
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A #JaneAusten inspired re-make. Enjoy #PridePrejudiceAndMistletoe: A Joyful Spin on the Romance Icon Share on X
Based on the novel by Melissa De La Cruz, if you’ve read Pride and Prejudice and Mistletoe, you might like to know, this script is very different. There are many changes, all of which were made in consideration of Hallmark’s brand and shows they know their audience. Unlike the PG13 novel’s content, this one is family friendly, and festively sweet. The supporting characters don’t play a large role, but they are fun to hang out with. I also really like the fact that the Fitzwilliam family is a close-knit group, which again plays to Hallmark’s strengths.
Apart from the gender bent switch up, what’s more different is the change in personality. Darcy may be cultured, but she’s not the typical Darcy character. No matter the differences from the Jane Austen tome, Pride, Prejudice and Mistletoe is still adorable. Those who enjoy Lacey Chabert’s Hallmark movies will like that a fan favorite face is in the leading lady role, and if you like Chesapeake Shores, Brendan is also a familiar fact.
Taking a festive approach to the Austen icon makes for a fun 90 minutes. Everyone is easy to like, and despite the changes the characters plan to embark on, the story reaches its conclusion in a happy way. Don’t miss a visit to Pemberley in Hallmark’s new romance!
Photo: ©2018 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Shane Mahood
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