By Timothy Chow

 Aside from the sheer pleasure that it affords me to be rid of such mental anguish as my final exams, it surely is of great happiness and comfort as well to be able to do as I please, now that all time constraints have been removed. As such, tonight after the examination, my friends and I journeyed forth to the theatre house to catch a splendid rendition of Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice. Most likely the twentieth version (or so) of the book to be adapted into celluloid form, this one stars Keira Knightley as the strong-willed protagonist, Elizabeth Bennet, and Matthew MacFadyen as the equally stubborn Mr. Darcy.

One has to admit that before commenting any further, the 1995 version was not made available to me previous to the occasion of this viewing, and as such, no comparisons can be made between the (BBC/A&E) mini-series and this film. If a detailed series of ruminations was desired, other sources would have to be consulted.

For a viewer who has not had the privilege to read the novel or watch any of the other adaptations however, the movie succeeded quite well. Its light attitude did nothing to disparage the more serious aspects of the characterizations and the plot, yet it managed to produce quite the number of laughs, the majority emanating from the mouths of my friend and I as we giggled our way through most of the film.

Keira Knightly is believably gentle yet tough, a most-satisfying mixture of the two solidified by her tomboy-esque behavior. Her character, Elizabeth Bennet, adheres to the conventions and mannerisms that women of the late 18th Century England would have while exhibiting a stubborn wit that is not uncharacteristic - at times, doing what is expected of her, while later exchanging quick verbal spars with the disagreeable Mr. Darcy. It is during these encounters where the most energy is released on screen. Initially, her dislike for him is palpable, but as their acquaintance changes and they learn more about each other, things begin to alter quickly. It is not in the nature of Mr. Darcy to be forthwith in his emotions; the camera and story never dote excessively on this and the solid impassion shown on Matthew's face at almost all times clearly and effectively displays Mr. Darcy’s placid exterior.

Yet despite the seriousness of it all, this adaptation has a feel-good approach weaved into the very fabric of filming. Produced by four of the six people involved with Love Actually, there's a mischievous undertone, the desire to make it sillier and more fun, a joy and gaiety found so evidently in the aforementioned movie. This does not mean, however, that the movie is silly or preposterous like Love Actually sometimes is, but there's a feeling of letting loose for example at the balls in Mr. Bingley's mansion or at the other parties scattered throughout the movie. Its light-hearted mixture may be a source of consternation for those who value the utmost purity of Austen's interpretation, but by handling the story in this manner, the movie becomes a lot more enjoyable and I daresay, fun.


Similarly, the late 18th Century is approached through a more unconventional attitude, with filmmaking techniques employing the use of fast-tracked day-to-night sequences as well as few outdoor long shots, an odd occasion since the story takes place in the rural English countryside. As expected during the dance sequences, the camera segues from room to room, flowing in numerous one-take shots so popularized by TV shows like ER or The West Wing, as well as other historical pieces. The music is memorable and the acting is all around decent.

One has to wonder why they had to cast Judi Dench as the mean old rich witch. After all, we've seen Chocolat and Shakespeare In Love, too. Donald Sutherland as the father, Mr. Bennet, is good though not outstanding. The most praise should be reserved for Keira Knightley, who does her best to exhibit an Elizabeth that seems acceptable. Still, her character is awfully similar to her roles in Bend It Like Beckham and Pirates of The Caribbean. I have yet to see if she can do more acting-wise, but my reservations are so far satisfied by a successful job in this movie. Overall, a delightful diversion for two hours and a story that makes you feel something…but not the best that it could've been.

3 ˝ stars out of 5