I have
recently viewed the 2005 movie version of Pride and Prejudice once again and of
course could not avoid comparing the portrayal of Darcy as done by Matthew
Macfadyen with Colin Firth’s version in the 1995 TV series. Much as I like
Matthew as an actor, Colin will always remain my favourite and favourite to
many others it seems. To me Matthew’s portrayal was much too severe for my
liking, even though we all know that was how he was meant to play it, he came
across as just plain bad tempered to me. There were many times when I wanted to
shake a smile out of him. We all know that Darcy and Jane had their many
differences and it is most likely that my annoyance with Matthew came from
knowing of course that he would come round in the end and succumb to the wit
and charm of Elizabeth, splendidly portrayed by Keira Knightly in this version.
But even then he didn’t seem too enchanted to me.
I have to
admit that from all the characters, my favourite will always be Mr. Bennett,
portrayed in this version by Donald Sutherland. His humorous patience with his
twittering wife whose abiding aim in life is to marry her daughters off to
wealthy gentlemen and his witty comments on all that is going on around him in
that hectic household are outstanding. Above all, despite his seeming
detachment, his love for his daughters shines through and steals the show. How
times have changed. Although there are many differences between 1830 and now,
there will always be mothers who are set on finding the best partners for their
daughters. And always mothers who are disappointed with the choices made.
Another of my
favourite characters is Elizabeth’s friend Charlotte who does not view life
through tinted lenses. Realistically she sees that she is never likely to win
the affections of a handsome gent who will sweep her off her feet for she is no
beauty, although not plain, and knows that she will have to be satisfied with
second best. To Elizabeth’s dismay, she accepts that a marriage with the
pompous and idiotic Mr. Collins will bring her a house that she can call her
own. It is a blessing that she does find contentment in this house. But isn’t
this so true to life even these days when many are forced to accept second best
matches.
I wonder what
Jane would think of her book being played out in so many different ways on the screen. Most authors desire to see their work made into a movie or TV series, I
know I do, and are forever disappointed. Perhaps she is up yonder somewhere enjoying
the fame. I do hope so.
Colin Firth remains my favorite Mr. Darcy, too. I still view that series on occasion. Keep writing
ReplyDeleteLovely post and I have to say I am torn. Can I say the Matthew Macfadyen/Keira Knightly is my favourite film version, and Colin Firth/Jennifer Ehle was my favourite TV version.
ReplyDeleteColin Firth, the actor and Donald Sutherland, the actor, are talented performers. I have not seen both versions of P and P, so I can't compare. But I do love Colin and Donald. Thank you for your thoughtful take on the 2 versions.
ReplyDeleteI love both actors, too, but Colin Firth is definitely my favorite. Thanks for the post.
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by, and it looks like Colin is the favourite by most.
ReplyDelete