‘PRIDE AND PREJUDICE’ FILM MARKS 20 YEARS ON THIS DAY
On this day 20 years ago (how is THIS possible?), the feature romantic drama Pride and Prejudice made its mark. The film has different release dates depending on what city you lived in, but its wide release came on this day two decades ago. Because of this, we’re taking the chance to celebrate Pride and Prejudice 20 years later. A film that has many brag worthy things, let’s look closer at this gorgeous romance.
LIST | 25 YEARS LATER: A CELEBRATION OF THE QUIET DRAMA ‘BOUNCE’
‘PRIDE AND PREJUDICE’ FILM MARKS 20 YEARS ON THIS DAY. Remembering the gorgeous #PrideandPrejudice 20 years later #onthisday. #PeriodDrama #Romance Share on XProduced in 2005 by Focus Features (which is also producing Sense and Sensibility for next year), the drama retells the story by Jane Austen. Iconic just by its name, the story follows five sisters who, unlucky for their father, are unable to inherit which means their best hope for any independence and security (which often was the same thing) is to make smart matches. The primary relationship and therefore two primary characters is Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy. Joe Wright, who serves as director in this feature does his upmost to honor the original while also helping us see the timeless story in a new light. At least this is my viewpoint.
I also think, along with many others from various years and genre, this is one of my best of film titles. Since we met this film in 2005, in this year 2025, it’s only fitting that we remember this film and some of the reasons why this film still stands up.
PRIDE and PREJUDICE 20 years later
CASTING GETS its RIGHT and why
I think the casting in this, which is perhaps quite different than the classic 1995 A&E miniseries (which we spotlighted for its 30th anniversary), is wonderful. The casting of Matthew MacFadyen as Darcy and Kiera Knightley as Lizzy may seem starkly different than Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle in the roles from the 95 version. MacFadyen has even said in interviews and video clips that he never thought he fit an ideal Darcy. Perhaps he’s right in terms of Austen’s vision, but I do think he adds to the role and does it justice. He deserves to be seriously considered as a great Darcy. However, going back to the 95 casting, I think Wright’s vision was, in part, to make the Bennet family a bit less refined than the six-hour miniseries. As a result, Kiera playing Lizzy as a little more rustic fits the vision.
While I remember liking everyone – we also see iconic stars like Judi Dench and Kelly Reilly (pre Yellowstone fame) – from the moment I left the theater seat, each subsequent viewing I see, I love everyone in their respective roles even more.
THE GOLDEN HOUR hues
Everything about this piece of cinema is like a work of art. The golden lighting is almost its own kind of character and lends a kind of ethereal hue to the production that is memorable. Similarly the stunning lush green landscapes deserve a shoutout too.
‘PRIDE AND PREJUDICE’ FILM MARKS 20 YEARS ON THIS DAY. Remembering the gorgeous #PrideandPrejudice 20 years later #onthisday. #PeriodDrama #Romance Share on XPROPOSAL gone WRONG
TCD/Prod.DB / Alamy
When there are so many adaptations of a story, and Pride and Prejudice certainly is one that does, it’s really hard to add anything new or make something standout in the sea of other pristine adaptations. This is a film that grows on me each time I see it, but I remember thinking the first proposal was very well done even after my first viewing. The rain adds drama and I love that even though he’s aloof, and getting his heart broken by Lizzy’s fierce words, he almost breaks and gets vulnerable with her. Of course, he doesn’t and instead pens his heart on paper. Nonetheless, I like the moment so much for its intensity and romanticism.
ROMANTIC epilogue
The epilogue scene that appears with some versions (maybe just the U.S.) is one that social media users don’t seem to like. I can deal with and like the ending as is, but I do think the epilogue showing a charming intimacy between the Darcy’s is, once again, a moment that helps this version stand out.
UNIQUE
Overall, I think this film has enough things to count as unique which a film like this needs. From the costuming to the styling of the actors and the comedy, this film has unique qualities that help it be its own voice. This is something I applaud its director for.
Stream, at publication, Pride and Prejudice with Cinemax or HBO Max; you can also find the film with the Disney+/Hulu/Max bundle. Or digitally purchase on places like Prime Video
Photos: Alamy
Ok, it’s your turn. What do you consider some of your most favorite Pride and Prejudice 20 years later memories? What do you like or loathe about this Austen adaptation? Let’s hear all of your thoughts below. Fill the comments up!
Thank you for visiting; please do visit again soon
PINTEREST PIN – SAVE & SHARE
Such a wonderful movie!
Definitely. One of my favorites. :)
I think one of my favorite moments from this movie was the plot twist regarding Mister Wikham! The plot between Mister Darcy and Elizabeth was amazing but I didn’t expect the Mister Wikham part of it all! Especially between him and Elizabeth’s sister. I think it took me a few watches to catch the development of his storyline.