Pride and Prejudice Comparisons Part 4

Recently I participated in a four-part comparison of the Pride and Prejudice adaptations made in 1995 and 2005, thanks to the lovely Miss Woodhouse of 'Elinor, Elizabeth and Emma'. (http://elinorandemma.blogspot.ca/) The lovely pictures are also courtesy of Miss Woodhouse.

And anyone who does not agree with me, I am up for a comment war! ;)

Part 4

Scenery

1995
 

The locations are great. My favourite place would have to be the Peak district - its so pretty! The places they chose are beautiful and the views are great! I also like the scenery around Rosings and the parsonage, where she runs into Darcy and where he gives her the letter. My favourite house would be Pemberley - beautiful! The first time Lizzy, and we, see Pemberley, it looks stunning! The lake so perfectly situated! I also love Longbourne in this adaptation and Rosings was very impressive, especially on the outside. I like the scenes showing Darcy striding though London searching for Lydia and Wickham; the scenery of old London seemed well thought through.

2005

I LOVE all the scenery and locations in this one! Firstly houses, Pemberley is gorgeous... enough said. I love Netherfield, the outside is lovely (and I live 20 minutes away from the house which ‘played’ it so it will always be special to me ;) ) Also, Longboune was great, the opening shot of it made it seem like a really friendly house. Now for scenery. I love the setting of the opening shot with Lizzy reading her book at dawn, such a beautiful scene. Also, the setting of the first proposal, if a little different to the book, was great, and in the rain too! I love how the film is like a loop, finishing a starting in a similar setting at dawn. The misty morning at the beginning is just like it is for the second proposal. Also, the scenes around the Peaks were stunning!

Preference
 

This is easy for me – 2005! The countless shots they take, all stunning, along with the beautiful houses make this a clear winner. Others moments I like, other than the ones I have already mentioned, would be the walk Lizzy takes from Longbourne to Netherfield when Jane is ill and also the scene with Lizzy on the swing as the seasons are changing – so well done! I think the only things I would change would be to substitute Pemberley and Rosings from the 1995 version. Pemberley is gorgeous, fullstop! And Rosings is more grand and pretentious, making it better to reflect the character of Lady Catherine!

Costumes

1995

The costumes are wonderful in this version, and very regency! All the dresses are great, except the Bingley sister’s ones, which are meant to be over the top! I love in particular Lizzy’s wardrobe; her dresses are great! I also think the men’s wardrobes are great. My favourite dress of Lizzy’s would have to be the one she wears to the Netherfield Ball and my favourite outfit of Darcy’s would be (discounting the wet shirt ;)) the lovely green and beige number he wears at Pemberley, after running into Lizzy. I think the hair styles in this version are very regency as well as very pretty (Lizzy’s hairstyle at the Netherfield Ball in particular.)

2005

The costumes are also quite regency I think. I prefer Jane’s wardrobe in this one, as Lizzy’s is a little bland. Other than that, the costumes are fine and some of them quite pretty. My favourite gown would be one of Jane’s, the one she wears at the end, during the proposal. My favourite male outfit would be Mr Darcy’s when he returned to Longbourne with Bingley; I like the stripped jacket. The hair styles in this version are not that regency I don’t think. Wickham’s pony-tail style as well as Lydia and Kitty hair being down most of the time, even though they were out, is not very regency.

Preference

I prefer the 1995. The dresses are more interesting but still regency, and I think the men’s outfits were also better. Also, the hair styles were more regency and also very pretty. I like some of the dresses and outfits in the 2005, but I prefer and I think the costumes and hair styles are nicer, and more accurate to the period in the 1995 version.

Music

1995

Courtesy of Miss Laurie

The music is delightful to listen to in the series, and every time I hear the opening credits it puts a smile on my face (and it is fun to play on the piano)! :) Because it is a series, you begin to recognise the music as it appears in different forms throughout the series, as it is associated with characters or moods, which is nice to have the consistency. I love the music associated with Rosings and Lady Catherine, very grand. And also the music associated with Darcy and Lizzy is lovely.

2005

Ditto

The music in this film is absolutely beautiful, and wonderful to play on the piano! One of my favourites is the opening piece, ‘Dawn’, as it is really pretty and contributes to making it a wonderful opening! The music throughout is very pretty and really helps to convey emotions and add new dimensions to the scenes. Another favourite of mine would be ‘The Secret Life Of Daydreams’ and also the song which Darcy and Lizzy dance to at the Netherfield Ball.

Preference

I prefer the music in the 2005 version as I think it is prettier, and it is more enjoyable to listen to when not watching the film, so as a soundtrack, as a lot of it is really relaxing. The music in the 1995 version is also great, with the themes running throughout the series. This was a hard choice, and probably I think I like the accompanying music from the 1995 version when watching the film, but otherwise, when listening to the soundtrack, without the film, I like the 2005 music.

Accuracy To The Book

1995

So accurate! When I had read the book, and watched the series again I realised how very accurate is was, maybe omitting (or merging) about 4 scenes, and the ending chapters were not all included. I love having it so accurate as therefore, so much of the book is brought to life, and you aren’t left to form many scenes in your head. I also loved the length (which is why it is so accurate), as it really allows you to get to know the characters. The language too was very accurate to the novel!

2005

I suppose really I should say, not very accurate, but I think, given the length of the film, it was pretty accurate, or at least, it included all the important parts, and although it was fast moving, it wasn’t one of those versions where the story is barely recognisable! All the important scenes were included, and the language used was mostly accurate. It is a shame it couldn’t have been longer, and I think the characters that were omitted which I would have liked would be Maria Lucas and Mr and Mrs Hurst. I think there was space for Mr and Mrs Hurst as they are in the same scenes as Miss Bingley and don’t need anything extra, but I think leaving out Maria was a wise move.

Preference

Well, it has got to be the 1995 as it left, literally, nothing out! I loved having, pretty much, the entire story brought to life on screen! I think the film did well for the time it had, but the 1995 used the time well, including so much of the novel, practically all of it!

Overall

1995

I absolutely love this series! It is one of my favourite Austen adaptations, and always will be! The length, meaning the accuracy to the novel, the costumes, music and locations are wonderful, not to mention the wonderful actors, in particular Firth and Ehle, and also the secondary characters. I love the development of Darcy and Lizzy’s relationship throughout too. A wonderfully satisfying series, with a very satisfying ending! Great when you have a day to spare! I LOVE IT!

2005

This is also one of my all time favourites, and always will be, and it will always have a special place in my heart as it was my first Austen I ever saw or read! The music and settings are beautiful, and the dramatic tension, and generally the connection between Darcy and Lizzy is really strong, and both Macfadyen and Knightley performed their parts very well! This is such a wonderful film, especially given the time constraints, and a perfect film for a lovely night in. I LOVE IT!

Preference

 

Like I said with Darcy, don’t make me choose! I think I have given preference to 1995 more, but it was pretty close! But, I can’t and won’t choose. I think they are so different, mainly in length, which means it is hard to compare them, even though that is what I have done for these last 4 posts... ;) If I have a day to spare, I watch the series, but just a few hours to spare, or an evening in, I watch the film. I find if I watch the film, I think that is my favourite, but then I watch the series and I am back to square one, or vice versa! Both are enjoyable to watch, and I would not rather watch one more than the other! So, I cannot pick, which will make me seem indecisive, I am sure!

 

I hope you have enjoyed these posts as much as I did writing them (and thanks to Miss Woodhouse for asking me in the first place!) and I would appreciate the feedback and whether anyone would like another one for 2 other Jane Austen adaptations (I am open to suggestions :) )

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3

 

Your affectionate friend,

 



Pride and Prejudice Comparisons Part 3

Recently I participated in a four-part comparison of the Pride and Prejudice adaptations made in 1995 and 2005, thanks to the lovely Miss Woodhouse of 'Elinor, Elizabeth and Emma'. (http://elinorandemma.blogspot.ca/) The lovely pictures are also courtesy of Miss Woodhouse.

And anyone who does not agree with me, I am up for a comment war! ;)

Part 3

Jane and Bingley's Romance

1995

 

I think they are a really cute couple in this version. You can see how much they like each other when they first meet each other and you can see how quickly their relationship develops. I also think that when we see them apart from each other, they seem to really miss one and other, with Bingley asking about her family and ALL her sisters, and Jane trying to persuade Lizzy that she is over him, but she isn't! I love the ending; Jane seems so very happy after the proposal, as does Bingley! And I adore the end scene at the wedding, when they seem so happy! I can imagine them being really happy together in the future!

2005

I love the first meeting! Bingley seems so nervous! It is really sweet! And when they first dance and he almost forgets what he is doing, bless! I think it is also sweet at the Netherfield Ball when he is following her around, talking to her as much as possible! And he is really sweet at the end! They both seem so very happy! I also love the scene when Jane is ill, and Bingley seems pleased! Unfortunately, I think Jane seems a little old for him, or perhaps he seems a little immature at times. But, generally, I love how the relationship develops and it would be nice to have been able to see them more in the film. (If you haven't picked this up by now, I think the film should have been longer!)

Preference

I think I like the relationship between them in the 1995 one. Mainly, I think, as Bingley seems besotted with Jane but not silly about it, and also because we get to see them more and they are really sweet together! I love the endings for them both, but I think I do prefer the 2005 ending, with Bingley on one knee, as it should be! But, in the 1995 the scenes we see after Bingley has gone away and seeing how each are dealing with it are really sweet. This was a tough call, and I like the clichéd ‘love at first sight’ actually working out, for once and yet not seeming silly!

Darcy's Relationship With Georgiana

1995

I think the relationship in this version is more like it is described in the book with Georgiana seeing Darcy almost as a father because of the large age gap. The clip explaining what Wickham’s dealings with Georgiana have been is sweet, and when she runs to him for support shows their love for each other. I also like the part when she asks her brother if she can ask Lizzy to dinner at Pemberley, it shows how she respects him. I also think that at the scene at Pemberley, we can see how Darcy wishes them to get on well. It is funny when Georgiana is telling Lizzy about how he is a wonderful elder brother and then they look at Darcy, and he looks back, confused, but also pleased that they are getting on so well!

2005

I think in this version they seem more like a brother and sister. I adore the part when Darcy first returns to Pemberley and interrupts her piano playing, and she is so pleased that he has returned! I also find that they seem more at ease with each, for example the conversation when Lizzy first meets Georgiana is really funny and they seem so easy with each other, and I love the look Georgiana gives Darcy when trying to persuade him to ask Lizzy to stay! I also love, just before this scene, the part when Darcy is listening to his sister playing the piano, and he looks so proud of her!

Preference

Even though the relationship in the 2005 version may not be quite as it is in the novel, I prefer the closeness and how it seems, to me, a more brother and sister relationship as you would expect it. They are really sweet together and seem less formal with each other than they do in the 1995. I like them in both versions, but I prefer the 2005 because of their easiness and closeness.

The Dance!

1995

This dance is no doubt closer to the book, and it includes most of the dialogue, which is always great! I love how the two of them act towards each other. Lizzy is so very teasing! But Darcy realises what she is about and is quite witty in his responses! I think the part when they are stopped by Sir William is great as, as well as being how it happens in the novel, it brings Bingley and Jane’s attachment to Darcy’s attention, which of course is important. I love Lizzy’s facial expressions throughout, and how unsubtle she is in her questioning of Darcy, and how she can’t refrain from mentioning her new acquaintance! And the way Darcy responds to her is also great! I think Firth and Ehle are just great together and do this scene wonderfully!

2005

The dialogue which is included in the dance in this version is quite accurate, but they have to shorten the dance, which is a shame. But, they make this scene very dramatic! I think Macfadyen does the scene wonderfully! I love his nervousness, as I think he would be nervous as he isn’t a keen dancer! I also think, similarly to the 1995 version, the relationship between them is great, especially on Lizzy’s side; her teasing is so funny! And she seems to be enjoying it! It is very dramatic when they just stop in the middle of the dance, because of Lizzy mentioning Wickham (bad idea to mention him!), and then afterwards everyone else just disappears! I think it really reflects how they would be feeling. I don’t think either of them would be thinking about anything other than what had just passed between them, so for everyone to disappear actually works I feel.

Preference

This is hard. Overall, I think I prefer the 1995 dance. Firstly, I like how Darcy banters back quite wittily to Lizzy, and secondly, the moment when Sir William interrupts is included, which I think is a really important moment. I do like the intenseness of the 2005 one, and I also like Lizzy’s reaction to accepting Darcy in the first place ('Did I just agree to dance with Mr Darcy?' 'I dare say you will find him very amiable Lizzy.' 'It would be most inconvenient since I have sworn to loath him for all entireity' haha ;) )! But, in the 1995, this is funny as well as she is trying to find a reason to say no, but really can’t! So, I think accuracy and content wins here, even though this is not always the case!

Mr Collins' Proposal

Miss Woodhouse forgot to make a Mr Collins' proposal banner so I'm just re-using the Mr Collins one

 

1995

The proposal was very comical in this version, and Mr Collins was very dislikable as well. The way he was acting towards Lizzy, walking around listing of his reasons made his seem really slimy! I also love how Lizzy just walks out on him while he is still speaking, but she has had enough by that time! Very funny, and I don’t find myself pitying him in the slightest! I also love Mrs Bennet’s way of clearing the room, very subtle!

2005

Also extremely funny in this one, but I also feel a little sorry for him. I love how they go into this proposal, with the drawing room clearing, and Lizzy trying to beg people to stay, poor girl! I also love that Collins gives her that little flower he was holding at the ball the night before. It is funny when he goes down on one knee, and you can see how much Lizzy wants to get away, and also laugh! I also love the ending, when the door bursts open with the young Bennets laughing their heads off!

Preference

Overall, I think I prefer the 1995 proposal because you are not put in a position to pity him as much as you are in the 2005 one. Both are funny, as are the reactions from the other characters, but I think because of the performance of Collins, making him easy to dislike, 1995 wins, but it was a close call!

Darcy's First Proposal

1995

This one is very true to the book with the setting and the dialogue. I love Firth’s performance at the beginning when he is pacing the room, not knowing where to begin! I also love how the tension builds between them through the scene, with Lizzy starting sitting down, and then as it goes on, standing up, as she is getting more and more angry! The performances are great by both, and I find myself really starting to pity Darcy because Lizzy is so harsh in her refusal, which was done very well by Ehle. The end is also sweet, with Darcy wishing the best for her health and happiness and walking out, and the Lizzy, overcome by emotions, does not know what to do, or what to make of it all!

2005

I love this proposal! It is so romantic. I know that it is not true to the book in setting, but in words it is pretty close! I think Macfadyen performed wonderfully. You could really see the pain on his face, and his facial expression throughout were wonderful! Knightley performed very well to, in her reaction to this surprising proposal! I love the chemistry between these two, and how angry they both get, especially at the mention of Wickham! I think the setting in the rain and the thunderstorm really helps the scene, making it very dramatic, romantic and also, quite sad! I really feel for Darcy at the end of this proposal, and Lizzy seems very overcome as well as she falls back onto the pillar. This scene compared to the next when she receives the letter is a good contrast, and helps to keep up the tension.

Preference

This is a really hard choice, but I think I have to give it to the 2005 proposal, as I am a sucker for romance! The tension and connection between them is great, and really strong, and, though not strictly Austen, I love the setting in the rain. I love the other proposal as well, and it is very dramatic as well (and the ending is perfect) but thinking of the performances, setting and dialogue, overall, I love the 2005 proposal, but again, it was a very hard call!

Darcy's Second Proposal

1995

This was a lovely scene. Very true to the book but I think it needed to be made a bigger deal of in the series, as, although romantic and a wonderful ending, I think it should have been more dramatic. Saying that, I still loved it! I loved both their awkwardness at the beginning of the scene, and then the happiness which overspread them both by the end.

2005

Such a romantic scene! Yes, again, not very Regency, but still wonderful! The setting is very sweet and I love the loop of having the film start at dawn, and end at dawn. Who wouldn’t want a handsome man walking towards you, coat flying in the wind, to speak the words he says to Lizzy?! Well, I wouldn't say no! The speech he makes is breathtaking and it goes to show that a scene can be extremely romantic, without the need for a kiss!

Preference

Easily the 2005 version. Love them both but I think the setting is beautiful and it is just a lovely end to the film, and very romantic. I love the chemistry between them, and it is just a gorgeous scene! The wording is lovely and I think the expressions and emotions displayed by each are so touching and it all contributes to making it one of the most romantic scenes I have seen!

Ending

1995

This is such a perfect ending for this wonderful series! I love the double wedding – Jane and Lizzy being very close sisters, and Darcy and Bingley being great friends. I think the way they show each of the characters in turn during the wedding is very clever, and quite similar to the final chapter of the book when we are told all the reactions of each character. Love the scene afterwards when they are departing in their carriages, (my theory is that each horse represents £2,500 as Bingley’s carriage has 2 and Darcy’s has 4! ;) ) Jane and Bingley look very happy, and Darcy and Lizzy look extremely pleased and also the look on Darcy’s face seems as though he is thinking ‘finally'! And a lovely end to a stunning series, with a very appropriate kiss!

2005

Well, I don’t know which end I should take as in England, the film ends when Lizzy runs out of her father’s room after receiving consent to marry Darcy, and the ending with them at Pemberley is on the bonus features as an ‘alternate US ending’. I like the ending at Pemberley and why wouldn’t they behave like that when at home alone? But, I know some think maybe it went a little too far, which I understand. But the English ending, for me, didn’t go far enough, and I think Darcy needs to be in the final shot of the film. I would have liked something in between the two endings, as a kiss is lovely, but maybe not that many! But, the ending, whichever one you consider the ending, is still a good way to finish  an amazing film.

Preference

I think it would be the 1995 ending, as I think it just a perfect way to finish the series. The emotions shown by each are really strong and they seem genuinely happy and you can imagine them going off to live at Pemberley very happily, and it is lovely to see Jane and Bingley seeming equally happy and content with how it has all turned out and I find it to be a very satisfying ending, without the feeling of wanting something more, which is always a good way for a film or series to end.

 

Part 1

Part 2

Part 4 



 

Your affectionate friend,

Pride and Prejudice Comparisons Part 2

Recently I participated in a four-part comparison of the Pride and Prejudice adaptations made in 1995 and 2005, thanks to the lovely Miss Woodhouse of 'Elinor, Elizabeth and Emma'. (http://elinorandemma.blogspot.ca/) The lovely pictures are also courtesy of Miss Woodhouse.

And anyone who does not agree with me, I am up for a comment war! ;)

Part 2

Kitty, Lydia and Mary Bennet

1995

They are great. Lydia and Kitty are fun and Mary is very studious, as they should be. I think Lydia is played well, especially in the scenes after the marriage, as she seems totally oblivious to what she has done wrong, just as it is in the novel. Kitty is very much copying Lydia which it is meant to be, and I think she was also played well. Her reaction to Lydia’s elopement and thinking that it is not in fact that bad is how I think she would be expected to think, as it is how Lydia thinks. Mary is just as she is like in the book, very studious and out from the other sisters. She really doesn’t seem to mix with her sisters much at all in this version, but I love her little speeches when trying to express her opinion on something.

2005

To me, all the sisters in this version seem more sisterly. I love Lydia and Kitty – they are so fun and seem so happy and care free! I think Mary was great, she seemed different to her other sisters, but not by choice. She played Mary really awkwardly in the ball scenes, which I think is more how Mary is. It is sweet that she is upset after being asked to stop playing the piano. I also love Kitty’s reaction to Lydia being asked to Brighton and not her, and how Lydia crows over her sister; shows how immature she is!

Preference

Overall I much prefer the sisters in the 2005 version. Mary is not so annoying, and is more shy and lacking confidence. Lydia and Kitty are really fun and show their immaturity well, as they are basically just two young girls obsessed with some dashing soldiers! I love the relationship between Kitty and Lydia – it seems a lot closer in the 2005 one, and seems to change a lot, as it would, after Lydia goes to Brighton. The relationship between all the sisters is just stronger in the 2005 version which I like, and Mary isn’t so totally different as it appears in the 1995 version. I also like that the idea of Mary liking Collins is more emphasised in this version. My two favourite Bennet sister scenes would be firstly, the beginning when they all listen at the door to their mother and father when discussing Bingley and then all running into the sitting room to question their father, and then the other is when they are returning from the Netherfield Ball, with Lydia and Kitty asleep on Jane; this really shows their closeness I think.

Mr Collins

1995

He is played well in this one. He is comical at times, but also spiteful and really gets under your skin at other times! My favourite scene of his would have to be when he comes to visit the Bennet’s after Lydia's elopement, and is gloating over the fact that Lizzy didn’t marry him! He is so dislikable at that moment! He is also funny during the Netherfield Ball when he dances in the wrong direction to Lizzy’s despair, and Darcy’s amusement! I also love his way of treating Lady Catherine, and of being treated by Lady Catherine!

2005

He is such a silly and comical character in this one! He is sometimes mean, but doesn’t really realise why what he is saying is mean! I love the proposal from him! He seems so confused afterwards, and you feel a little sorry for him and also want to laugh at his stupidity! He is also funny around Lady Catherine, as he seems so awed by her! And I love the power Charlotte has over him in this one, even though he doesn’t really realise it! Mr Collins in this version is a lot more innocently annoying.

Preference

I think I prefer the 1995 Collins, although it is a close call. I think he needs that side of him which realises that what he is saying sometimes is... impolite. This side of him makes him more dislikable, which I like! Also, I find you pity the other Collins too much for my liking! And of course I love his relationship with Lady Catherine, and the dance scene at Netherfield is so very funny!

Charlotte Lucas

1995

I like Charlotte in this version. She is very quiet as she should be. She also seems very indifferent to the fact that she has married... well... Mr Collins, which again she is described as being, and yet at other times, she shows herself to be a little sad at what she has had to settle for, like when she is asking Lizzy to come and visit her in March; you can see the desperation in her eyes, poor girl!

2005

She too is played very well I think in this version. I find that she shows more emotion. For example, when she informs Lizzy of her engagement, you can feel her pain in having to tell her best friend this news, and then see her anger as she knows Lizzy will judge her. Then later when Lizzy visits her, you can see how happy she really is to run her own home, even if she must share it with such a man as Mr Collins!

Preference

Overall I prefer the 2005 Charlotte. I think her relationship with Lizzy is better as they seem closer at the beginning, and then you can see how her choice of husband will affect their friendship. Also, I like the looks you get from Charlotte in the 2005 version, hinting to her about a possible attachment on Darcy’s side. Overall, I prefer this Charlotte, with her relationship’s with Lizzy, and with her husband!

Caroline Bingley

1995

She is such an insufferable woman! And this is very clear in this version! Her sneaky looks to Mrs Hurst, and indirect insults to Lizzy, and direct compliments to Darcy! I think that is one of the aspects of her character which is highlighted in the series; her clear wish of a connection between herself and Darcy! I also love Darcy’s reaction to her! She is easily dislikable from the very beginning and very frustrating in this version, and Lizzy’s quick wit in standing up to her make Caroline an important, annoying, and funny character to have in the story!

2005

She seems, in this version, very proud and above her company. She is more spiteful in this version, I find, and I dislike her for this. She is more subtle in her insults to Lizzy and her family, and in her wish regarding Darcy. It is a shame we don’t see her as often, as I would have liked to see her reaction to Darcy’s growing affection for Lizzy! She performs it very well, and is very dislikable. Her connection and treatment of her brother, Bingley, seems like it was described in the book in this film, and I love the ginger hair ;) She was a very good Caroline, and very malicious and horrible, as she should be!

Preference

I think it would be the Caroline in the 1995 version I prefer, maybe as we see more of her, but also I think her relationship with Darcy is great, well, really funny! Also, she is really dislikable and insufferable, but not so openly spiteful and mean, like in the film! I also like her relationship with Mrs Hurst, and the looks they give each other, and Lizzy’s reaction to that. I find Caroline very much as described in the novel!

Georgiana Darcy

1995

She is a great character in this version, but not as shy as I imagined she would be. One moment I think she does really well however, is the piano scene at Pemberley. First, I love her conversation with Lizzy, showing them getting on very well together, and secondly, when Wickham is mentioned, her reaction is great as no doubt she would still be upset about that, as it was quite a recent affair.

2005

I love her in this version! She is sweet and innocent and acts her age! She seems shyer in this version, as she should be. I love her relationship with her brother; I love when he first returns home and interrupts her piano practice (that embrace is so sweet!), and then I also love the moment when Lizzy meets her for the first time, and she is really happy and bouncy, but a little shy as well.

Preference

I easily prefer the 2005 Georgiana. She is more innocent in that version, and I think her relationship with her brother is great! Another moment I love is when she gives her brother a look, as if trying to encourage him to ask Lizzy and the Gardiners to stay, as he does shortly after. I think she just seems more her age and also perhaps, knocked in confidence as the whole affair with Wickham would cause, in the 2005 version and I can completely imagine her being charmed by Mr Wickham to the point of almost eloping!

The Gardiners

1995

I think the Gardiners are great in this version. You get to see them quite a lot, unlike the 2005 version, and they seem like the perfect aunt and uncle. I love their relationship with Lizzy, and the trip to the Peak district is great, and I love the reaction of Mrs Gardiner in particular when hearing about how wonderful the supposed to be proud Darcy is, and then experiencing it first hand, and seeing how different he was to Lizzy’s description! 

2005

It is a shame that we do not see much of the Gardiners, but what we do see of them shows them to be a great aunt and uncle as well. I also love their reaction to seeing Pemberley for the first time, the look on their faces is a picture! I think they seem quite close as a couple in this version, but I would need to see more. It is shame they left out the Gardiners children in this version, that showed them to be great parents as well in the 1995 one!

Preference

I prefer the 1995 Gardiners. I love their relationship with Lizzy, especially between the aunt and Lizzy. I also think that they seem like a really lovely couple and a great aunt and uncle, as well as great parents. Of course I love the Gardiners, as who knows what would have happened without them, ‘as by bringing her into Derbyshire had been the means of uniting them.’ ;)

Colonel Fitzwilliam

1995

I think Colonel Fitzwilliam is such a sweet character and portrayed brilliantly in this version. I like how the idea of him and Lizzy is hinted at more in this version and I love the conversation around the piano at Rosings with him, Darcy and Lizzy; it shows him to be a really fun and amiable man.

2005

You don’t see much of him in this version, but what you do see was done very well. He seems like a very friendly chap from first impressions. I think the scene where he reveals the truth about Bingley’s departure is well done, as he seems very unaware of why Lizzy would be so interested in the news, as he should be.

Preference

I think because we get to see more of him in the 1995 version, I prefer that one. I love his little relationship with Lizzy, and how there is a possible wish for something more on his side, (and you can tell the idea did pass through Lizzy's mind, and it is not such a silly idea I wouldn't think as in the 1995 one I think he is handsome enough!) which I think is ignored in the 2005 version, due to time.

Part 1
Part 3
Part 4


Your affectionate friend,

Pride and Prejudice Comparisons Part 1

Hello!

I am sorry for my silence recently, you know how it is during the summer!

Recently I participated in a four-part comparison of the Pride and Prejudice adaptations made in 1995 and 2005, thanks to the lovely Miss Woodhouse of Elinor, Elizabeth and Emma. (http://elinorandemma.blogspot.ca/) The lovely pictures are also courtesy of Miss Woodhouse. And anyone who does not agree with me, I am up for a comment war! ;)

Part 1

Elizabeth Bennet

1995

Ehle did a FANTASTIC job! She is Lizzy Bennet! Her wit and humour she brought to the part, as well as her tomboy-ish attitude! She was a perfect balance for the part and she would make a wonderful mistress of Pemberley! Her reactions to the other characters and the relationships she builds up are wonderful (with Darcy, Jane, Lady Catherine and Wickham to name but a few)! She was perfect for me! Her sisterly relationship with Jane was very strong and she also seemed very taken in by Wickham, just as she should have been.

2005

Fair do’s to Knightley! She did a good job! Her emotions she displayed were great, especially in the intense scenes, such as the first proposal and also the dance scene. Perhaps she was a little too tomboy-ish for Lizzy and I can’t quite see her as the mistress of Pemberley... I liked her relationship with Lady Catherine – that was entertaining! But still a very enjoyable performance!

Preference

Overall, I preferred the performance from Ehle as I think she found the right balance between the feminine side and tomboy side of Lizzy. Her playfulness with Darcy is really enjoyable to watch and Ehle’s portrayal is for me, as if she has just stepped out of the novel, but I do think that Knightley did the emotional and romantic scenes particularly well.

Mr Darcy

1995

Well, what can I say? Wasn’t he wonderful? His portrayal was amazing. His Darcy before the transformation was proud enough to be dislikable, as he was meant to be. I think his changing opinion of Lizzy and her ‘fine eyes’ is done by Firth very well. One very notable performance on his part is the first proposal. You can see the pain on the face and the struggle he has been through with his feelings, and then later you can see his anger towards Wickham! I also love his transformation at Pemberley (*cough* wet shirt *cough*) and the scene around the piano with that look which melts my heart!

2005

What a romantic man! I love the shyness in his performance and you can see how he is struggling with his affection for Lizzy! That amazing scene when he helps Lizzy into the carriage – another look which melts my heart! That is one thing about his performance, his facial expressions, however small, really express how he is feeling! And need I mention how romantic the first proposal scene is! I think not... He plays that scene wonderfully! Also, he takes into consideration the length of the film and he plays the ‘new’ Darcy just more relaxed, making it all the more believable.

Preference

  Oh! Don’t make me pick! I can’t! I CAN’T! So I won’t! ;) I think both their performances are AMAZING! Firth played up the pride, and Macfadyen played up the shyness! Each made the performance their own and did it very well, both with wet shirts at one time or another! ;)

Mr and Mrs Bennet

1995

I love their relationship in this version, with Mr Bennet teasing his wife excessively. They make a great couple! Mrs Bennet is such an over reactor in this which is really funny, but a little annoying at times, and Mr Bennet is not too indifferent to his family. I also enjoy his change of heart in the latter part of the story after Lydia runs away.

2005

Mrs Bennet in this version is very motherly and sweet towards her girls, but still overly dramatic, but not to a point of annoyance! I find Mr Bennet is very disinterested in his family, too indifferent. Also, he should have tried harder on the English accent! Together they were great, and his sarcasm throughout and the teasing of his wife, and of Mr Collins, were funny!

Preference

Overall, I prefer Mr Bennet in the 1995 one because he is more how I imagined him from the novel, and takes interest in the family and doesn’t seem totally disinterested in them! But, I like the 2005 Mrs Bennet because she seems more motherly, making the Bennet family seem closer. Also, she is not too much of a drama queen compared to the 1995 one! But, if I couldn't mix and match, I think I would have to pick the 1995 couple, mainly down to Mr Bennet.

Jane Bennet

1995

I think Jane is wonderful in the version. She is sweet, innocent, kind and just as she should be. (But one small thing I would say is that I do not think she is prettier than Lizzy, which she is meant to be, according to the novel.) I think she plays the beginning of the relationship with Bingley well; she seems to like him a lot, yet does not show the extent of her admiration, as is described in the book. Her relationship with Lizzy seems really strong, and they seem very close and I love the scenes with Jane and Lizzy when they are discussing Bingley, and Darcy at times!

2005

I think this Jane was again sweet, innocent, kind and as she is described in the book. And I personally think she is prettier than Lizzy in this version! I think she does the latter part of the relationship with Bingley well; she seems very upset when she thinks it is all over, and I love her reaction when Bingley proposes! I like the comic side of the relationship between her and Lizzy, and I wish they were shown to talk more (espcially after Darcy had proposed), but I loved the conversation after the Meryton Assembly under the covers!

Preference

This is a hard choice. I like them both. But overall, I think I like the 2005 Jane. Her innocence throughout and the development of her relationship with Mr Bingley is great. I also love her relationship with Lizzy, and with her other sisters (like at the very beginning of the film when they are pestering her for her clothes for the Meryton assembly!) I only wish that Lizzy had shared more about her relationship with Darcy with Jane, but I think this is due to the length of the film.

Mr Bingley

1995

I love Bingley in this one. He is innocent and amiable, but not silly. He seems a very gentleman like man, and his affection for Jane is sweet and very evident. I think the scenes with himself, his sisters and Darcy while they discuss the Bennets are good. You can see that he realises the problems, but he is trying to defend her. It is nice that the length of the series allows you to see more of him, and the scene before the proposal is sweet as he seems so agitated, as you would expect him to be. :)

2005

He is such a sweet Bingley. He is almost so innocent, that perhaps he is a little silly? I think he is like a young man in love for the first time. This isn’t altogether a bad thing, but I think he needs to be a bit more masculine! But, saying that, I love his nervousness when he returns Meryton, and returns to Longbourne to propose. The scene with him almost practising his proposal with Darcy is a great moment, and very funny! I wish we could have seen more of Bingley... This is again down to the length.

Preference

I prefer the 1995 Bingley – he is just more manly! They are both great but I think the 1995 one seems to act more his age, but still has that nervousness of a man truly in love! I also love his little scenes with Darcy, which shows their relationship, which is important to the story, and nice to see. Bingley is such an amiable gentleman!

Wickham

1995

Oh! What an abominable character! I do not like him! The way he is portrayed in this version makes him such a ‘love to hate’ character. You can see the appeal at the beginning of the story, and it is easy to be taken in by his charm, but then later, it is also easy to dislike him! He is so annoying in the second half, especially after he returns with Lydia and acts as if he has done nothing wrong! ‘My dear sister’, yes well Lizzy had had other ideas about you at one time, which you should take care to remember! As you can see, Wickham really makes me angry and his portrayal in this version was great, making him an easily dislikable character! I also like the ‘extra’ scenes we see; firstly, the scenes showing the background with Darcy, shown while Darcy writes the letter, and secondly, the scenes in London with Lydia.

2005

I think we needed to see more of Wickham as he is not so dislikable in this version, but again this is down to the length! (Ok, this version needed to be longer!) I think he seems very charming at the beginning when we first meet him, and therefore it is easy to see why Lizzy fell for him. He is also, I think, more dashing in the military uniform than the other Wickham! ;) I find the scene when he return with Lydia well done on his part, as you can see how he knows the relationship between him and Lizzy has deteriorated, and that final look as he walks out of Longbourn says a lot! I also thought another scene he performed well was when he revealed the history with Darcy; he made himself appear very angry, helping make the story he was telling more believable. He is dislikable as I dislike him, but he does not provoke such strong feelings as the 1995 Wickham did.

Preference

On balance, I prefer the 1995 Wickham because I find him much easier to dislike, which I like as he is such an abominable character! :) I also like that we get to see more of him, and the scene after Lizzy has read the letter from her Aunt revealing all that Darcy did to help Lydia is really entertaining! I love how Lizzy lets him talk for a bit before revealing what she knows! ;)

Lady Catherine

1995

What wonderful eyebrow acting! She did a wonderful job! Her conversations with Lizzy were great and her facial expressions said a lot! I love her treatment of Collins, and her power to make him silent in an instant! I think she plays the part very well and makes her comments to Lizzy seem a little impolite at times, as it is meant to be, which we can see from Darcy’s reactions to some of her speeches! She also did the confrontation with Lizzy very well, seeming very disconcerted and angry with Lizzy.

2005

Her facial expressions were also wonderful! Her reactions to Lizzy’s replies to her questions were great, showing how unacceptable her answers were deemed to be (by her); no governess? How shocking! ;) I think she seemed more proud and aware of her position in this version, and Mr Collins seemed almost scared of her! This is further shown during the confrontation. It is a lot more intense than the 1995 version, perhaps helped by the fact that it happened in the middle of the night!, and Lady Catherine seems extremely angry. This manner she adopts, as well as Lizzy’s quick responses, help to create a strong atmosphere in that scene, which is great!

Preference

This is quite a hard decision as they both perform the part extremely well! But, I think I like the performance from the Lady Catherine in the 1995 version. I like her treatment of the other characters and how the other characters react to her, in particular Lizzy, Darcy and Mr Collins. The confrontation was great, but I did enjoyed that scene in both versions.

 

Part 2
Part 3
Part 4



Your affectionate friend,