Pride and Prejudice - The Special Edition (A&E, 1996)
by Simon Langton
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DVD Cover Information
Actor: Anna Chancellor, Colin Firth, Crispin Bonham-Carter, David Bamber, Jennifer EhleDirector: Simon Langton
Brand: A&E
DVD: Region Code 1
Audio: English (Original Language), Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo
Format: Anamorphic, Closed-captioned, Color, Special Edition
Picture Format: 1.78:1
Running Time: 300 minutes
DVD Release Date: 2001-09-25
Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: A&E Home Video
Movie Reviews of Pride and Prejudice - The Special Edition (A&E, 1996)
Movie Review: My Favorite of All Jane Austen Adaptations!
Summary: 5 Stars
This BBC/A&E production is the finest adaptation that I have ever seen of a Jane Austen novel. It is simply magnificent- from its capturing of Austen's razor-sharp wit, to the beautiful cinematography and engaging music, to the fast-moving plot that sweeps its audience in and won't let us go. My first viewing of this miniseries was back during its initial American broadcast on A&E in about '96. That was my introduction to the magical world of Jane Austen (in my early teens), and it was because of this series that I was inspired to read the novel itself for the first time, as well as to discover other Austen books/film adaptations.
The casting was one of its greatest strengths. Jennifer Ehle, as Elizabeth, was lovely and had just the right humor and charisma to carry the film on her shoulders. Colin Firth was outstanding as Mr. Darcy; the depth of emotion he brought to this character (held just under the surface by Darcy's reserved exterior) was a huge part of my being so deeply moved, romantically, by this film. (I fall in love with Mr. Darcy every time I watch it, and I'm really NOT one of those girls who tends to swoon over romantic movies. I certainly do in this case!) The entire cast was excellent.
It seems that when films are adapted from novels, they're often able to do one of two things well: they either capture the spirit of the book to make for a good movie (while unfortunately leaving out or changing many of the details of the book), OR they follow the book very closely, but as a result come across as somewhat stiff and dull on screen. This film is so brilliant because it manages to achieve both goals: It is painstakingly faithful to the novel (almost word-for-word in most scenes), while also being as fast-paced and full-of-life as any feature film could ever be. I'm so happy that the creative team allotted nearly 6 hours to tell the whole story, so that it would never feel rushed. It may, in fact, be the most faithful adaptation I've ever seen in capturing the plot, dialogue, and spirit, of any novel.
Summary of Pride and Prejudice - The Special Edition (A&E, 1996)
Jane Austen's classic novel of 1813, Pride and Prejudice, still wins the hearts of countless schoolgirls with its romantic story of Elizabeth Bennet and her Mr. Darcy. Now, the 1996 BBC miniseries is winning over adults, with its faithful adaptation, gorgeous scenery, and superb acting.The essence of the story is the antagonism between Mr. Darcy, a wealthy single man who believes Elizabeth to be beneath him, and Elizabeth, who upon being insulted at a dance by the aloof Darcy refuses to associate with him in any manner. Austen evokes incredible tension with the wit and flirtation of the two characters, and director Simon Langton (who also directed Upstairs Downstairs) successfully translates the repartee and conflict in this six-hour miniseries. Dialogue, for the most part, is painstakingly replicated, except when fleshing out and smoothing for modern sensibilities was necessary. Darcy, for instance, is drawn out, giving his personality significantly more depth. The acting sweeps you away to Regency England: Jennifer Ehle (of Wilde) is convincing as the obstinate Elizabeth, who, despite her mother's attempts to marry her off, spurs the attentions of Darcy. And Colin Firth (of The English Patient) will have women everywhere longing for a Mr. Darcy of their own.
For those who have been on an Austen binge--enjoying such excellent adaptations as Sense and Sensibility and Persuasion--this miniseries will round out the ultimate Austen video library. For those new to these romantic period pieces, this version of Pride and Prejudice will have you hooked and longing for more. One caveat, however: plan to watch it in an entire day, because very few have the self-control to not watch all six hours in a single sitting. --Jenny Brown
The timeless themes of love and marriage in Jane Austen's superb romantic comedy Pride and Prejudice have captured readers for generations - the novel has sold more than 20 million copies and has never been out of print. Now A&E and the BBC have brought this beloved classic to life in a compelling production directed by Upstairs Downstairs' Simon Langton. This stunning production captures the celebrated beauty of the English countryside and its glorious stately manors. It features lavish costumes and an exquisite soundtrack from noted composer Carl Davis.Pride and Prejudice is the story of the lively and rebellious Elizabeth Bennet one of five unmarried daughters living in the countryside of 19th Century England. IN a world where obtaining an advantageous marriage is a woman's sole occupation Elizabeth's independent manner threatens her family's future. Will her romantic sparring with the mysterious and arrogant Darcy end in misfortune - or will love's true nature prevail?System Requirements:Starring: Jennifer Ehle Colin Firth David Bamber Crispin Bonham-Carter Anthony Calf Anna Chancellor Susannah Harker Julia Sawalha Alison Steadman Benjamin Whitrow. Directed By: Simon Langton. Running Time: 310 Minutes Color. This Film is presented in "Widescreen" format. Copyright 2001 A&E Television Networks. Format: DVD MOVIE Genre: DRAMA Rating: NR UPC: 733961702545 Manufacturer No: AAE-70254
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