This is such a good description of the script but also the incomparable talent of the cast. Also the interpretation of the eye roll as a classic response to one of those “male lines” that lizzie sees through. This is a type of anachronism that is actually so in line with Austen and the genius and honesty of her writing way back when!
@@carolhama4156Oh yes Jennifer Ehle. Her eyes are so so beautiful 🥺. Although I'm a big fan of Colin Firth, the most outstanding performance in this adaption belongs to her.
One of the true joys of my life is watching great acting. This greatest production of "Pride And Prejudice" is an oasis in the desert for me...watching these gifted people bring this great story to life, with intelligence, grace, and subtlety and complexity...I love it, in part because you have to truly pay attention to it to make sure you miss nothing that goes on, from foreground to background...so intelligently and intuitively done. It is a treasure, a true one. I'm so pleased that so many others agree, and appreciate this superb production so well. No other can come close to it.
For me, the music score in the corridor scene tells what was in Darcy's mind was Elizabeth. His smile was a mix of assurance and relief. When he proposed to Lizzy in episode 3, he confessed that he has struggled to repress his affection for her because her family circumstance does not match his. Then we know Lizzy turned him down brutally........but love does not stop just because we are being rejected! So when Darcy saw Lizzy's instantaneous response to look after Georgianna, whom he shields so closely, he knew he is right about this girl. And their exchange of gaze seconds after that gives Darcy the hope of Lizzy's change of mind. Caroline's intention to embarrass Lizzy backfired on her. Darcy took the opportunity to publicly reveal his adoration for Lizzy, which was probably another thing that he had been struggling over. So there we have a man walking in the corridor, feeling relieved and hopeful. And the song Lizzy sang is 'Voi Che Sapete' (You Know What Love Is) from The Marriage of Figaro. I am not a professional. These are just my own interpretations as a faithful supporter of the '95 version. Thank you for the video as always.
I love it when folk offer up their take on this wonderful story. I’m pretty sure you’re right and you make the point so well. I wish I could go back and edit my video ha ha, because now I’m inclined to agree and it makes such good sense when we see his facial expressions, which do seem to confirm everything. Thank you for sharing 🙏
I never took Darcy’s reaction of Lizzie being on foot as negative. I took it more as a moment of being impressed, but slightly surprised at feeling impressed.
My favorite is Lizzy standing next to Georgiana playing the piano. She looks directly at Darcy with the most loving gaze while letting her arms drop to her sides in an absolutely open stance, communicating to him, "I am here, totally, with you and for you in love." This moment is prefaced by her comment to Georgiana about her brother when looking directly at Darcy, she says, "And you know he is never wrong," which grabs his attention in a very direct and responsive way. The whole film is a masterpiece of subtle, yet unmistakably conveyed human connection.
Acceptance of Lizz into family mould.. As Georgiana's sister... D stands vindicated... Hmm Super choice of Darcy nd Liz... Beyond words and I can't comprehend.. More
I had always seen Lydia's trip on the carriage step as emphasising that, even with the "dignity" of being a newly-married woman, she was still impulsive, careless and unladylike.
Mr Collins got far more lucky than he deserved when he married Charlotte. Also, while she’s supposed to be plain, the actress is sooo classically beautiful.
1995 P&P is my hands down favorite adaptation, because there are so many subtle acting moments in it that honor what you read it in the book. In gloriously subtle ways at times, you see the characters come to life, which is pure magic to me.
I love paying attention to the background characters every time I rewatch it- one of my personal favourites is when Darcy is focusing on Lizzy and Colonel Fitzwilliam's conversation at Hunsford in episode 3 whilst Mr Collins is rambling on to him. Darcy mainly ignores him to stare at Lizzy but does occasionally give a nod of acknowledgement when Charlotte speaks. A small but funny moment!
95 pride and prejudice is my favorite version ❤ I'm a huge fan. Thank you for this video. I didn't know about Darcys thumb rub until you pointed it out😊
Edit: I see a bunch of people have already commented on this but I'll leave mine just for the mention of "Voi Che Sapete" if anyone didn't know the song and was wondering what it was. It's a fun aria to sing and very accessible for beginning sopranos. 18:32 I don't think Darcy is thinking of Caroline at all here. He seems to be thinking of Lizzy and replaying in his mind events from earlier that evening that made him realize she loves him back, such as her being protective of his sister and the looks she was giving him. A big clue as to the direction of Darcy's thoughts is in "Voi Che Sapete" playing in the background - the same aria Lizzy was singing earlier.
I actually think the slight smile and look upon Mr. Darcy's face does not have anything to do with Caroline Bingley as he walks the hallway after they have all retired, but the realization that Elizabeth returned his loving gaze and that her heart has also changed. It is the hope and cautious optimism of what might be. I believe this continues the next morning when we see him fussing over what to wear prior to him calling on her, which I believe was to be the second proposal but was undermined by the terrible news from home that sent Elizabeth back home abruptly. Great videos by the way! I'm thoroughly enjoying watching them. This BBC version of Pride and Prejudice is a masterpiece, and I cannot watch any other version except for this one.
I couldn't agree more. He is reliving the warm and encouraging moments they shared and how kind Elizabeth was to his sister. Caroline Bingley and her efforts to insult Elizabeth are the furthest things from his mind.
The expression on Mr Darcy's face as Lady C. de B. starts talking of how proficient she (and Anne) would have been if she had ever learnt to play the piano... almost as if feels acutely not how painful it is to leave Rosings, but to have relations 'of whom' he could be ashamed. And the way he rolls his eyes when his future mom-in-law informs Bingley and him that her youngest daughter has been recently married...priceless! God, I love 1995 adaptation. It was a sort of first crush and is always a fond memory
Yeah Colin’s micro expressions tell us so more to Darcy’s character don’t they. It’s as if he has a mischievous side that society daren’t allow him to display!
I have always thought the smiling Mr. Darcy does as he walks down the hall with his dogs is due to a hopeful pondering of "the look" he shared with Lizzy earlier at the piano, since the accompaniment to the Mozart song she sang is the soundtrack in this scene.
I love this adaptation. I watch it over and over. I feel a bit of a difference in interpretation of the scene in episode one where Darcy has caught Lizzie having walked to Netherfield. Where you said he was thinking “headstrong, obstinate girl”, I always feel he’s trying not to smile. I feel he’s chagrined because he should find it outrageous by the standards of the time, but he finds her nature charming despite himself. Great video ❤
I think the meeting goes farther than that. I think he is shocked that someone he knows (albeit slightly) would do such a thing. And yet when he challenges her, she retains good manners and forces him to do the same. Elizabeth 1- Darcy 0.
Thank you, many interesting points. One comment: About your last point, (Lizzy not telling her father about Darcy's generosity) - in the book too, she convinces her father that she loves Darcy and that he is worthy of love, and obtains his consent and approval, without telling him about it! Only after he relaxes and agrees wholeheartedly to the marriage, she adds the information about Darcy's saving Lydia. I've often wondered why she didn't use that argument to obtain her father's approval - perhaps she didn't want him to think she was accepting Darcy out of gratitude alone.
One thing I didn’t notice on first watching, but thought was hilarious when I did - When they were visiting Lady Catherine, there was a scene with Lizzy talking to Colonel Fitzwilliam. Darcy comes over to speak to them. On re-watching, I realised that although the focus was on Lizzy and Colonel Fitzwilliam, in the background Mr Collins is busy talking to Darcy. Darcy just gets up and walks off when Mr Collins is mid-sentence like he’s not even there 😅
The 1995 version is my favorite. It is almost completely verbatim from the novel. I think there is only one scene from the novel that is missing in the movie. The acting, costuming, set, music, and cinemetography are great. I've watched the DVD dozens of times.
Me, too! I do not like the version with Matthew Rhys. ..all THEY do is rattle off their lines as fast as they can and Darcy was poorly cast. He should have had a more mature look and feel to him. In the 1995 version with Colin Firth the characters are so well cast and they act so well together!
The very first time I was watching the 3rd episode of the 1995 P&P, I remember being moved by the little scene where Charlotte Lucas and Elizabeth are talking about the approaching wedding of Charlotte and Mr Collins and their leaving for Kent. Lucy Scott conveys Charlotte's sadness to leave her beloved friend and the familiar surroundings and her anxiousness in front of the unknown she is about to encounter, very subtly, but it is all there for the viewer to see and hear within those few seconds. What a touching scene! I also savour the actress's superb diction.
I lost count of the number of times I have watched P&P. Easily 40…50…? It still stands as my favorite film by one of my favorite authors. Each actor was brilliantly chosen and so believable in their role. I love all the little things you notice when rewatching it. Thank you for the lovely video.
The 1995 adaption is overall terrific! Observe that not only Charlotte looks friendly at Lizzy in that scene. Also Lizzy while talking to Lady Catherine has this quick glimpse to her friend Charlotte as if she is talking with her eyes with Charlotte like only best friends can. (and probably that quick glimpse meant "OMG, this Lady is really as awkward as I expected" 😂) Surely it took Lizzy a little while after Charlotte left Meryton to " digest" that situation of Charlotte accepting Mr. Collins. But the series has that lovely scene when they first meet again in Hunsford with their greeting "I am happy to see you" - "and I you" ... which shows that their friendship is just as close as ever (again) and you can see their relief about that at the same time.
My favourite scenes are where Darcy looks at Lizzie as she turns the pages for Georgiana as she plays the piano, and my favourite of all is Colin Firth's sublime acting when he encounters Lizzie at Pemberley. He is so shocked, nervously trying to make conversation. He's smitten!
I have watched this wonderful series numerous times and never get tired of it. I agree that there is a subtle subplot happening where Mary is rather hopeful of attracting Mr Collins interest. I think Lucy Briers was quite wonderful as Mary and always enjoy watching her. I also think this version is vastly superior to the other versions of Pride and Prejudice.
My favourite nuance of the scene with Lydia's not-so-graceful entering the carriage is when she says "funny if I should fall and break my head", and Kitty peevishly replies in a low voice "I wish you would"😄 this in itself is quite hilarious, and then we get Mr Bennet's look at Kitty, which is just priceless. I noticed this exchange somewhere around my 50th viewing of the series (🤭) , probably because I originally watched a translated version that missed it, and since then it has been one of my top favourite background moments of P&P This production is so rich in detail❤I don't know how people can fail to appreciate this fact and put the 2005 version higher. The modern movie feels 2-dimensional and totally lacking that quiet intelligent humour of Jane Austen's novel which Andrew Davies highlighted so well (in fact, often greatly added to😊) in his genious screenplay
I just love how Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth "speak" with their facial expressions, they say so much more with their faces than with their words. This will always be my favourite P&P adaptation❤🥰
In my opinion, Mr. Darcy is thinking about Lizzy as he's walking down the corridor...this is when he realizes he's got it in the bag. Darcy's new confidence regarding the direction of the relationship with Lizzy is what fueled the terse exchange with Caroline. Thank you, Mr. Smith!
It' s my absolutely favourite version of Pride and Prejudice. Best screenplay, finest actors, best suitable music, indeed. Thank you for sharing your interesting ideas and feelings with us❤.
I love the scene where Elizabeth visits Charlotte and they have that thinly veiled conversation about how Charlotte manipulates Mr Collins into spending as little time as possible in her company. I love the demeanour of both actors conveying their shared humour
It’s a lovely scene. Prior to this Charlotte was hoping Elizabeth would visit her (often?) in Kent and then when they do meet, we see that Charlotte has taken full control of the situation 👍
This is one of my favorite things to watch ever, and one of the things I love and value so much about this - and the 1995 Persuasion as well - is the subtlety of the acting. The twitch of an eyebrow, the slight pursing of the lips, it is so subtle and you have to pay attention! I think no one could have done better than Jennifer Ehle at Lizzie.
I agree with all, except your interpretation of Darcy's emotions and mindset when Lizzy arrives to Bingley's house on foot to check on Jane. I don't think he at all was thinking "obstinate,, headstrong girl." I've never seen his mouth making a grimace there, but trying his best to hold back a smirk, a smile of adoration. She's so completely opposite of every woman he's ever known and he's completely enamored with her. I think it was him trying not to chuckle at his admiration for her independence. In the moment, he's always so pleased with what he sees in her, it's not until he takes a minute to compose himself that he goes through the process of convincing himself how wrong she is.
Yep I agree with you. He's trying to hide his delight and amusement. If you know the direction he had for this scene he's meant to be feeling super attracted to her and part of that attraction I think is (reluctantly) admiring her independence. But due to Lizzie's prejudice towards him she doesn't pick up on it and takes his reaction as him criticising her or being a snob again so she rolls her eyes.
And if you think about it, in the book, he had been in company with her, either dining or dancing, at least five times before he sees her here. That's way more time than Hollywood gives people to get together! He's pretty much in love with her already by this time, and here he finds her both admirable and adorable!
Amazing that 67k have viewed your video in 4 days. Just shows the amazing power of this adaptation to still hold our attention 28 years after it was first broadcast. A classic without a doubt.
Yes I’m blown away at the response to this video. Clearly P&P is a firm favourite still after all these years. I’m very grateful people have tuned in to watch too 👍
I always thought that Lydia's trip was deliberate as they used it as a metaphor for her and her family's impending downfall and shame. Andrew Davis mentions in an interview that he wishes they had given Darcy and Lizzie more time to talk after the second marriage proposal "I was in the middle before I knew that I had begun" would have been perfect. Confession time I watch this masterpiece at least once a month it is perfection. Nice to know that others still appreciate this wonderful adaptation. Very enjoyable and interesting video as ever. Keep up the good work.
The scene with Darcy walking through the hallway doesn't take place immediately after his triumphant admission to Caroline Bingley, despite it being the next scene. It is after the guests have left and the house is dark, the lights are extinguished, and if you look closely in the next scene when he's by the fireplace dreaming of Lizzie, he's in the very same room he was in earlier with the Bingleys. So in this sequence through the corridor and by the fireplace, he only has Elizabeth on his mind and all his smiles are for her.
My favorite little subtle bit is the scene where Darcy comes upon Elizabeth as she’s just read her letter. He sits her down, and gently takes hold of her arm and strokes it in an very gentle but unconscious manner to give her comfort. It’s like he just can’t help himself when she’s in such distress.
Colin withdraws it too Aftr maybe feeling He's given too much on his feelings for her.. Perhaps.. As unmarried people were not supposed to hold hands... Etc..
I interpreted the scene in the garden, where Jane runs out to beg Mr Collins go in to answer Mary’s concerns, was showing Jane’s desire to give Lizzie some time alone with Wickham and without Mr Collins around.
The scene where Darcy is walking down the corridor isn’t about his put down of Miss Bingley, huis head is too full of Elizabeth to linger on that conversation, no that triumphant look is a remembrance of the evening when he’s made a massive break through with Lizzie,he’s savouring all of what happened, even Miss Darcey noticed the looks being passed between the two of them whilst she was playing the piano and Mr and Mrs Gardener were by the end of this visit convinced there was something going on with Lizzie and Darcey. It’s a very well written book with lots of undercurrents.
This is my favorite version of Pride And Prejudice. I didn't like the Keira Knightley version...the characters weren't developed enough for my liking and they rushed through a lot of the soliloquies that really robbed the scene's emotions. I have watched this series at least seven or eight times and have seen the items you've examined but never put them into words. These small actions just made the film all the richer to me. Thanks for sharing this...I loved it!
I've tried many times to watch the 2005 version but I find it such a shallow version of the book that i can never finish it. It's especially repulsive since I've watched the 1995 version and read the book the dozens of times. Good grief, I even have the audiobook, recorded by Karen Savage, downloaded to listen to when I'm doing other things like cooking, cleaning or crocheting.
I’m a simple girl, I see ‘95 Pride & Prejudice and I click. I must say, I was not disappointed. And I did the same thing- I pretended Lizzy told Mr Bennett about Darcy’s activities to save their family.
@ 18:00 I don't think Darcy is smiling in triumph over Caroline as much as he is fully grasping the realization that he is in love with Elizabeth. He admits it to himself and he is happy in this acceptance of his feelings for her.
I just read through the comment section and this is the popular consensus with the women-posters. Isn't it intriguing that us ladies read that scene alternatively than you did?
At 5:36, I would like to submit my own interpretation of Darcy's reaction to Elizabeth's arrival at Netherfield. I think the suppressed emotion on his face is admiration not disdain for her rolling her eyes. He appreciates her energy and enjoyment of nature and, unlike Miss Bingley, is impressed and admiring of Elizabeth.
I was watching episodes 1 and 2 with my mother and youngest sister on Sunday. My sister remarked that Mary doesn’t wear her glasses as often- if at all- during Mr. Collins’ visit. We think she was trying to look visually appealing to her cousin.
That’s an interesting observation. You can see why she would take them off in order to look more appealing. I wonder if this was direction given to Lucy Briers or if she herself chose to apply this character trait. Thanks for sharing 🙏
She wears her glasses only for reading, not permanently. She is not wearing them in episode 1 on the way home from church, and there is no Mr. Collins to impress. Of course, she is reading in many of the scenes she is in, so we often see her with glasses. At the Netherfield ball, she puts them on to read the notes when she sits down to the piano, and removes them immediately when she leaves the piano.
Really liked this review. It brought my heart some joy to see another person watch this series with as much care and interest as I did. Amazingly (after having watched the series in 1995 and again this last week, over and over again) I did see all the subtle expressions and fine acting as you noted here, except the scene where Lydia is flirting with Denny in the background, as Lizzy and Wickam walk in the foreground. Thanks for pointing that out. By the way, Darcy's warm glowing smile while Lizzy played the piano in Pemberly, is my MOST FAVORITE scene of the entire series! :)
One of my favorite hidden moments is when Darcy helps Lizzie out of the carriage. As he is walking away, you can see him flex the hand that he had just used to help her get out of the carriage, such a sweet little detail.
One little detail I noticed was the role of flowers in the series. There was a whole tradition of the "language of flowers" in the 19th century, with people in essence sending coded messages by the sort of flowers they presented. In the scene where Mr. Collins proposes to Elizabeth, she is arranging a vase of *sea holly* which is a flower a bit like a thistle, with prickly leaves. You couldn't have found a more appropriate flower to illustrate the uncomfortable situation which unfolds.
“Unless you watch the series over and over…”. Yes, you’re one of us. I love catching these little moments in P&P. My favorite is seeing Mary preen while Mr Collins doesn’t even see her. I agree with Charlotte’s enjoyment of Lizzie vs Lady Catherine, but I didn’t see it as enjoyment until you pointed it out.
I'd never read nor seen P&P until my last yr in college & my roommates decided to do a marathon of it & Gilmore Girls before Finals Week. I loved it. The 1995 version. As I got chances to rewatch it, I truly grew to love watching Jennifer Ehle's subtle yet expressive facial expressions. They really make the scenes come to life. Eyebrows, eyerolls, sighs, smiling to herself, the puffed out cheeks. Utterly perfect!
18:38 I don't think Darcy wasted one single though for Caroline. He was only thinking of Elizabeth, and I wish you discussed the following scene of Darcy at the fireplace. That's my most *FAVOURITE* moment in the whole movie. I'm not sure how they did it, but Darcy's face lights up, his eyes start sparkling: that's the moment when he realizes that he can propose Elizabeth again. So beautifully done, so subtle and still so powerful. Beautifully done 🥰😍❤
Yeah so much is provided when words can’t justify the emotions. It’s a good catch from you and I’m going to watch it again myself to see if I can spot it.
Collin Firth didn’t win an Oscar for nothing. “The King’s Speech” was yet another tour de force for this amazing actor. He never disappoints . His detailed, nuanced Darcy is one of the best performances by any actor -male or female-I’ve ever seen. His “Darcy” is one reason why we come back to watch ‘95 P&P over and over. When my daughters first watched it, I told them: “Watch Darcy’s eyes. Every time you see him, his eyes tell you everything you need to know about him.” Whoever said, “The eyes are the windows to the soul” must have been thinking about Collin Firth’s portrayal of Mr. Darcy. ❤️
@@carolanneposey5211 Collin Firth is not my favourite actor, in fact, I don't think he's very good as an actor. However, his facial expressions are brilliant. He's the best when he plays the embarrassed. Like when he meets Lizzy at the house after a swim, or in Nanny McPhee when he's called out about Mrs Quickly. And yes, in the King's Speech. I think he's naturally a shy person and plays shy people the best. He had a romantic relationship with Ehle during the shooting, that's why his eyes are so telling. He truly was in love, it's in his eyes ❤ No acting can replace true feelings.
One thing that both Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle do so well, and to me is a sign of superb acting, is how they vary their breathing. When we feel various emotions, our breathing changes -- we tense up, relax, stop breathing, take a deeper breath etc etc. In every key scene between these two you will see their breathing change in sync with the emotions flowing across their faces, and their pupils dilate and contract too. For example, when Darcy allows himself to gaze at Elizabeth, he tends to untense himself and therefore takes a deeper breath; it's such a natural, unconscious response and most viewers won't notice it, but it's a core part of what makes Firth's portrayal so impactful and believable for viewers.
I agree that they should've included the scene where Lizzy told her father what Darcy had done to help their family but another scene I know I would've loved is when Mrs. Bennet found out about Lizzy's engagement. She had disliked Darcy throughout the show and now he was engaged to Lizzy and all was forgiven, since after all he had 10,000 pounds a year. She was such a silly woman I know it would've been so funny to see her reaction.
Sharp of you to see Mary's smiles at Mr. Collins and Lydia's background flirts with the soldiers. I do disagree on your last point. Darcy is not thinking of Miss Bingley, but savoring the moment when he shared warm eye contact with Elizabeth. Caroline doesn't affect him enough that he would relish taking her down a peg. Rather, he has been deeply rattled by Elizabeth and is rejoicing in their fleeting moment of mutual solicitude. My take on this is reinforced by the music that plays as Darcy strolls the gallery with his dog. It is a sweet and joyful instrumental version of the song Lizzie had been singing. The memory is fresh and warm and his smile is innocent and soft, not smug.
In the scene where Darcy walks down the long corridor, I always thought he was contemplating the following day, going to renew his relationship with Lizzie. That he has made up his mind to marry her, and that those thoughts are showing on his face.
I do think you misinterpret Darcy's pleasure as he retires down the hallway. Caroline Bingley does not exist for him. He is dismissive of her when she is in his presence. He would give her not a moment's thought when she is absent. It is always Caroline and never Darcy who endeavors to solicit conversation between them. Notice he never looks for her reaction when he refutes her because he is not looking to score points either with her or against her. He is reflecting on Elizabeth. If I recall the preceding scene correctly, Lizzie gave Darcy her sweetest warmest smile with direct eye contact as she rescued Georgiana at the piano. He is savoring that smile and almost daring to hope despite his reservations. If nothing else, he is rejoicing in her adroit compassion for the sister whom he dearly loves. His thoughts are nearly always on Elizabeth or he never would have felt himself driven to proposal.
Yes. He is rejoicing that Elizabeth’s swift block of trauma to Georgiana was both fueled by her growing affection for her and at once followed by her quiet reassuring smile to Darcy that she would deflect any potential harm to the sweet girl. And, I dare say, to him.
I'm so glad I found this video! I read Pride and Prejudice (adapted for young readers) when I was in my mid-teens, and loved it so much I read it through several times over the years. I usually resist watching film adaptations of books that I've read because so often they change the storyline to such an extent that I feel like I'm watching something completely different, but for some reason I decided to watch this miniseries back when it first came out. The moment when Lizzy helps Miss Darcy at the pianoforte ("I'm neglecting you! How can you play without someone to turn the pages?") to cover her distress at hearing Miss Bingley say something about Wickham was a real turning point for me. Up to that point, I really disliked Mr. Darcy, but the way he looked at Lizzy in that moment, I absolutely fell in love with him, or maybe with Colin Firth. It's probably my strongest memory out of many lovely moments from the miniseries.
The scene when Elizabeth is playing the pianoforte and signing shows something that Colin Firth does superbly--he is literally smoldering while watching and listening. He conveys the depth of Darcy's feelings with that look in a way that no one else can do.
I had to go back to the book to double check what Mr Bennet knew about Mr. Darcy's involvement in Lydia's situation. You are right. Lizzy tells him only after she convinces him of her feelings for Mr. Darcy, but she did tell him.
I just found your channel and watched all the Pride & Prejudice videos, I loved them! Please do more of other period pieces!! I wore out my P&P vhs tapes, scratched the first DVDs, bought another set and recently bought the series on Amazon Prime, I've watched it more than 100 times.
I think Charlotte knows much more than she lets on. She’s not silly and ignorant as some would let us believe. She’s fully aware of all of her friends strengths and faults as well as those of her family, and her chosen husband. She makes what she considers to be the wisest choice with the options she has available to her. The movie can sometimes frustrate us as to why on earth she would willingly go along with Mr. Collins. She’s too good for him by far. But once you’ve read the book, you understand better the actual situation she found herself in, and exactly how little her family had. She did her duty to her family as she saw it. I see her to be just as wise as Lizzy. Perhaps more so, from the very beginning. She knew what would happen, and she made the sacrifice to be simply “content” rather than deliriously in love and blindingly happy. You see that desperation in her voice, expression, and clasping of the hands to Lizzy when she admits she will miss her after she leaves and moves to her husbands house. She knows she’s leaving her whole world behind, and for whom, and it terrifies her. But her choice has been made and she has to live with it. I do agree however that I think everyone who’s ever read the book or seen the movie (any of the versions) would probably be frustrated as to why the author didn’t just put Mr. Collins with Mary. It would have suited them so much better. But Mr. Collins was vain. He wanted a beautiful wife. He also needed someone extremely competent to please Lady Catherine. And the story would not have progressed in the same way if Lizzy had not felt the need to visit her friend after she moved away.
Yes. I saw the mini series first, then read the book. The actress playing Charlotte is young and good looking. So the necessity she refers to is less obvious. But as you say, the book makes it clear. Also, while I enjoy Mr Collins for being absurd in the adaptation, he isn't as bad in the book. He was worse on the screen to be more entertaining.
@joannageorge7305 David Bamber the actor playing Mr Collins said there's only 2 ways to do him. Completely over the top campy or completely straight and serious where he doesn't realise he's the butt of the joke. He plays the second one beautifully. Also Charlotte and Lizzy are in different positions. Lizzy is young, beautiful, witty and talented enough. That can help overcome a lack of wealth. Charlotte is older, plain looking, sensible mind but not the fast and charming wit of Elizabeth. And has no real wealth. She doesn't have much to offer in regency marriage market terms. She makes and takes an opportunity.
He was humiliated by Lizzie's rejection and was having his feathers smoothed at the Lucas's. He proposed to Charlotte as a "so there" petty move. Also, there was a family quarrel, and instead of repairing it, he rubbed salt. Finally, Mary would not have suited him because the absolute last person a pompous ass wants to listen to is another pompous ass. IMHO
I like the part when, after the first ball where Mr Bingly and and his party are first presented, the group are relaxing at Netherfield talking about how tedious the ball was. Caroline remarks that "Jane Bennet is a sweet girl, but the mother!" Bingly's response is a priceless expression giving us a glimpse into his open and honest temper as though he might try to excuse her if he could but.....no.....can't be done.😂
I had always interpreted the scene where Jane comes to fetch Mr. Collins for Mary as if Jane was trying to give Lizzy and Mr. Wickham some privacy, as Jane was aware at the time that Lizzy was interested in Mr. Wickham. It never occurred to me that the intention could have been for Mary to spend some private time with Mr. Collins. Wow. Thanks for the insight :)
The scene with Darcy and Lizzy where they run into each other as she arrives...to me, that little micro expression from Darcy seems like he was trying not to smile. He was somewhat impressed I think.
Yes I agree! That's how I read it also, the way he straightened his lips was suppressing amusement that she had walked, and found it rather attractive but didn't want to let on.
I agree. But I also think this scene shows that Darcy has that sort of snobby side to him that he's been allowed to nurture his whole life. In a way he's laughing or smirking at Elizabeth's breach of decorum by walking "on foot?" to see her sister. If Caroline Bingley or Louisa Hurst had been in this scene, they would have been making the same sort of face, because they are also incredibly snobbish. But we begin to see, in this scene and in later ones such as the argument that Lizzie and Darcy have by the fireplace, that she is in effect calling him on this behavior, and forcing him to grow a little and stop taking himself so seriously, if he really wants to stand a chance of being with her. Darcy of course, also has an effect on Lizzie in the other direction, in essence calling her on her penchant for being taken in by the BS of someone like Wickham and being overly judgmental against Darcy.
Lost count of how many times I’ve watched this series, just love it. I think the reason in this version Lizzie doesn’t tell her father about Darcy’s involvement in Lydia’s wedding & paying off Wickhams debts is similar to the reasons she explains to Jane earlier - Mr Darcy has not given her leave to, and it involves his sister. Both Lizzie & Darcy would not want her father thinking she was only accepting his proposal for that reason also, she wants her family to accept his qualities without obligated gratitude. And I think it likely that information would not be held tightly by the Bennet family & be the talk of the village, giving Darcy great embarrassment! Enjoyable video, thank you!
Lovely observations about an utterly delightful and ever-rewatchable production. I have a slightly different interpretation of Darcy's expressions in the corridor after informing Caroline of his impression of Lizzie. His little smiles of triumph are, to me, his very new delight in actually defending the woman he loves, in public--and perhaps also feeling pleasure at last to state his feelings so openly. (At least, more openly than he has before to anyone.) This brief declaration has overcome his natural reticence, and to me he seems to be grasping the wonderment at what openness feels like. (And, yes, I do think he might've also been thinking "thank heaven I managed to get that insufferable woman to STFU already.")
Yes I too am beginning to change my thoughts on that scene. It’s good that people have shared their thoughts and ideas because it paints a clearer picture for me. My spin on all the scenes I’ve spoken about, at least to highlight those little moments that I spied, are only based on my own interpretation of the scene and story. In no way am I implicitly stating them as fact. It’s all open for discussion that’s for sure 👍
I always interpreted Darcys smiles and the walk with the candle and the dog as a man "at home" not only in his house but in his own self, being relieved having finally "come out" as belonging, as it were, to a woman who has been scorned and ridiculed by his friends for months. He has been honest, he is in the right, and can carry himself with dignity and ease. I don´t think it had as much to do with Caroline Bingley being put in her place, though it had a certain satisfaction for sure.
Yes he’s definitely more relaxed in his own home. And the visual exchanges that Darcy and Elizabeth have when she’s runs to help Georgina at the piano after Caroline’s remark about Wickham - those glances say so much about the relationship being repaired.
Just two things. I think Darcy is impressed when he comes across Elizabeth at Netherfield but knows he mustn’t show it, so is surpressing a smile and I think the candlelit walk along the corridor at Pemberley is him thinking to himself that he’s starting to impress Lizzy and he’s chuffed with himself that they had such a good evening together. Nothing about Caroline at all.
This is my favorite adaptation & actors. I did notice many of the subtle facial moments but the biggest unseen item was Lydia pulling the hat off & playing/flirting with him about it. I will be watching for all of these next time I see the series. That will be very soon now! Thank you for the fun peeks, I'd have thought nothing of the 4th wall being broken either as they seemed so natural.
@TudorSmith Yes! The nuance and precision of her delivery gives dimension and realism to this small but important role. I looked her up, and is seems that she hasn’t done much acting since then (according to the internet). It’s a bit disappointing!
Sometimes I think Charlotte comes across as opportunistic and irritating but she's actually a very clever, observant character and she gets things dead on.
As far as I remember, Darcy's help in bringing about Lydia's marriage to Wickham was supposed to be a secret. As Lydia mentioned It herself while visiting her family just afterwards, and when Lizzy's aunt wrote to her that Mr Gardiner was to get all the credits for arranging things. So I think it makes sense that Lizzy does not mention it to her father. Since she respects Darcy's wish not to have it mentioned. Or at least that's how I've always felt about it... No matter how it was meant to be, this is still by far my favourite adaptation of Jane Austen's book. So many little details make it a joy to watch. Which reminds me I shoud do so again very soon. And I'll probably notice all the things I previously missed until you told us about them 🙂
The `1995 version with Jennifer and Colin is by far the best and most saturated with Jane Austen's intent to entertain. You must also include in brilliant acting Anna Chancelor's reaction to Darcy when she is smiling at him at the dinner table and he counters her jab at Elizabeth , her smile remains, her expression almost unchanged but you can tell her spirit and joy has totally left her and the smile is a mere mask, a husk of a former emotion of validation now empty and she does it so well almost without moving, she is so funny there.
Anna Chancelor gives a master class in acting throughout the episodes. She offers us a character that we almost choose to dislike right from the start. Her subtle performances are a delight to watch!
There is some fabulous blocking/background work whenever the Gardeners come to visit the family. They are constantly moving and interacting without breaking character which allows for beautiful natural movement for the lead characters and the camera
Your videos are always so informative, insightful, and entertaining- thanks so much. This adaptation of Pride and Prejudice was my first introduction to Jane Austen, and I’ve long thought it was one of the best Austen adaptation ever made. However, your “Things you might have missed” videos help me recognize anew how well and thoughtfully made it is.
I’m pretty sure that the production team were considering more than just the text/script in this release. All those background actions and micro expressions give us so much more.
@@TudorSmith Maybe this is just a semantic quibble, but I think that many of the incidents you point out reinforce the text rather going beyond it (if that’s what you’re suggesting. For example, you point out instances where Mary shows interest in Mr. Collins, and the text tells us that she was indeed open to marrying him. In cases like that, the actors, directors, etc., were trying to show us something through the characters’ actions that was made explicit in the text.
Great video! Thank you! My favourite example of actors in the background is in Episode 4 when Lizzie and the Gardiners are at Pemberley. As they are rushing to leave, having bumped into Darcy, he stops them and is talking to Lizzie. In the background we see the Gardiners and I love the way these two actors are looking so uncomfortable and trying to appear invisible because, at this point, they still believe Darcy to be a bit of an arse! It is wonderfully juxtaposed with the next bit when he starts to talk to them and is so friendly that their entire demeanor relaxes. Lovely acting by Tim Wylton and Joanna David. But I am not sure I agree with your take on Darcy when he is walking with the dogs along the gallery after the party in the music room. I don't think he is congratulating himself on finally shutting up Miss Bingley, as I don't think he cares what her opinion is on any matter. I think his secret smiles are all for Lizzie, as he is realizing that her feelings seem to have softened towards him finally! However, great fun video nonetheless. Keep them coming!
In the corridor scene, I never felt that Darcy was giving much thought to Caroline Bingley at that point. I thought he was finally getting past his own prejudices/pride and admitting to himself how much he admired Elizabeth. He is clearly self-satisfied that he has been able to do so.
Here's one thing I noticed. When Darcy and Elizabeth are in the carriage after the wedding, it's the first time you see a proper toothy smile from Darcy.
1995 is the most faithful version ever. I regret sometimes that they didn't show Mrs. Bennett getting the news of Elizabeth's betrothal, but we've seen for 5 hours how she'll react, so... Only a few lines are added, such as Mr. Bennett saying that Darcy might not turn out to be a blackguard just because he's rich, and those are meant to speed things along, not dumb them down. Lady Catherine in the Olivier version was a Scooby-Doo villain, and I don't know wtf was happening with the Keira version: Changing the dialogue all willy-nilly, with no sense of the beauty, irony and gossipiness of Austen's novel, and Longbourne looks like a pig's barn! Mr. Bennett is a gentleman, not a mud farmer!
Exactly that. The 2005 version doesn’t depict a gentleman and a gentleman’s home. Funny how they thought (as you say) portraying the essence of a pig farmer!
The 2005 version had too many scenes that were so far off from what Jane Austen had written -- I'll highlight just two: 1) Georgiana being vivacious and talkative upon meeting Lizzy, and 2) Lizzy and Darcy making out on a stone table outdoors, she in night clothes and he barefoot. Couldn't take this version serious with this adaptation.
In a post to another video, I said that the 2005 version was high Romantic, which Austen was not. That version is the P&P story as told by Emily Brontë!
I enjoyed this video thank you Tudor. You've covered a lot in this video but have not mentioned Adrian Lukis much. I think his subtle and comedic performance is a little underrated. 1. I particularly like the scene where Wickham and Lizzy have that underhand duel behind a mask of politeness and fraternity in which Lizzy gives him the one final slap down to end the discussion of what really happened between him and the Darcy family. It's so cheeky of Lizzy to toy with him like a cat with a mouse with that tease about how Darcy must have been in town for a wedding.... She pauses deliberately to watch him start and then squirm, which Adrian delivers with masterfully understated acting. I don't think that was in the book, it's just really good screenplay? Then at the end of that conversation I love his walk of agony and shame which he communicates with his back to us, trying to puff himself up while dying inside complete with that toss of his head like a suppressed aaaaahhhh! 2. His reaction to Lizzy's earlier question "do you know Colonel Fitzwilliam" is great too. As is his face blanching with fear when he and Darcy bump into each other in Merryton. 3. I also like Colonel Forster's look of unbridled lust at Lizzy while she is dancing with Mr. Darcy. It's a little in the foreground to Mr. Collins' ridiculous drool so might be missed for that reason. There are other admiring glances to Lizzy in this sequence too. 4. I love Mr. Bennett's eyeroll in reaction to Wickham's fatuous "as the French would have it, aurevoir!" 5. The beautifully synchronized acting by the cast playing Maria, Mr. Collins and Charlotte at the parsonage with Lizzy and Col Fitzwilliam chatting in the foreground. They are in such awe of Mr. Darcy and are all hanging on his every word and gesture. Mr. Darcy's attention is so riveted on Lizzy that the way he ignores them so completely is hilarious! 6. Lucy Scott's finest turn as Charlotte I think is when she invites Lizzy to visit her. She communicates so much so subtly and so perfectly in character of her sudden fear as the reality of her new situation bites and she needs the support of her friend at her side. I don't agree that Lydia's fall is unscripted because, while I think Nadia's whole performance is brilliant throughout, would she have been able to ad lib so perfectly in character with that language so appropriate for the time? It wasn't a phrase that rolls of the tongue today so I think everyone just acted really well.
I noticed Mary enamored with Collins, and her anticipating getting asked to dance a long time ago, and was so impressed with her acting. I probably noticed it because I’m an actor 😂
When Darcy comes to see Lizzie right after hearing the bad news about Lydia from Jane's letter, Lizzie makes the comment about how all their family must participate in Lydia's disgrace. The next shot of Darcy includes a very subtle shake of the head and he seems to mouth the word "no". I love that part! 🥰
Mary's facial expressions when sisters Lydia and Kitty are fighting over a bonnet (the first example presented here) are to me remarkably similar to what one might have expected from Mr. Bennet had he been cast in her stead. Thank you, Tudor Smith, for this thoroughly enjoyable content.
I’ve watched this so many times! It’s been a few years, and now I have to watch it again! This is by far the best Pride and Prejudice, and, dare I say, I prefer it over the novel, but that could be after having it pop up in multiple lit classes in university. This feels romantic. The story never felt nearly so romantic. The actors really make this series!
Oh that’s interesting. I’d always thought it was accidental hence the reactions from the other actors. Someone commented that it was intentional and if that were the case, what excellent dramatic acting from Julia Sawahla!
Benjamin Whitrow did.a wonderful job with his facial expressions bringing out the charming narcissist character of Austen's Mr. Bennett. In other adaptations he comes across as kindly and loving which is not the way Austen wrote him. Whitrow frequently smirks at his wife or winks at Lizzy, completely changing the feeling of what he is saying. The opening scene is a good example, what he says sounds serious but the subtle smirk tells you he is not serious.
I just read the book again, Darcy thinks is proposal is a sure thing and is discombobulated when he’s rejected. Also something I forgot is when Mrs. Reynolds says Wickham’s mother had extravagant taste, so we see why Wickham was always in debt. Also in the book Georgiana is described as not quite as handsome as her brother and painfully shy. Love the book.
One of my favourite little moments is in episode 1, when everyone at Netherfield is discussing the party at Lucas Lodge. Mr Hurst wakes up after clearly drinking too much and the subtle reactions from both Bingley and Darcy to his being a boor are priceless.
Pride & Prejudice 1995 is absolutely my favorite version! Once you see Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy, there can be no other.
And Jennifer Ehle.
And the curly haired sweetheart who portrayed Mr Bing.
This is such a good description of the script but also the incomparable talent of the cast. Also the interpretation of the eye roll as a classic response to one of those “male lines” that lizzie sees through. This is a type of anachronism that is actually so in line with Austen and the genius and honesty of her writing way back when!
💯 truth!
@@carolhama4156Oh yes Jennifer Ehle. Her eyes are so so beautiful 🥺. Although I'm a big fan of Colin Firth, the most outstanding performance in this adaption belongs to her.
@@lananhvu3488My favorite performances are Jennifer Ehle and David Bamber as Mr.Collins
One of the true joys of my life is watching great acting. This greatest production of "Pride And Prejudice" is an oasis in the desert for me...watching these gifted people bring this great story to life, with intelligence, grace, and subtlety and complexity...I love it, in part because you have to truly pay attention to it to make sure you miss nothing that goes on, from foreground to background...so intelligently and intuitively done. It is a treasure, a true one. I'm so pleased that so many others agree, and appreciate this superb production so well. No other can come close to it.
Absolutely agree! This is my favourite, watched it and read the novel so many times.
For me, the music score in the corridor scene tells what was in Darcy's mind was Elizabeth. His smile was a mix of assurance and relief. When he proposed to Lizzy in episode 3, he confessed that he has struggled to repress his affection for her because her family circumstance does not match his. Then we know Lizzy turned him down brutally........but love does not stop just because we are being rejected! So when Darcy saw Lizzy's instantaneous response to look after Georgianna, whom he shields so closely, he knew he is right about this girl. And their exchange of gaze seconds after that gives Darcy the hope of Lizzy's change of mind. Caroline's intention to embarrass Lizzy backfired on her. Darcy took the opportunity to publicly reveal his adoration for Lizzy, which was probably another thing that he had been struggling over. So there we have a man walking in the corridor, feeling relieved and hopeful. And the song Lizzy sang is 'Voi Che Sapete' (You Know What Love Is) from The Marriage of Figaro. I am not a professional. These are just my own interpretations as a faithful supporter of the '95 version. Thank you for the video as always.
I love it when folk offer up their take on this wonderful story. I’m pretty sure you’re right and you make the point so well. I wish I could go back and edit my video ha ha, because now I’m inclined to agree and it makes such good sense when we see his facial expressions, which do seem to confirm everything. Thank you for sharing 🙏
I always thought at that corridor moment he started to realise he might have a chance with Lizzy after all.
I agree; Darcy's thoughts of Caroline and her insults disappeared as he stepped into the corridor.
And then the next day he is particular in what he wears before riding into Lambton probably feeling confident enough to propose to her again.
Well said. I absolutely agree.
I never took Darcy’s reaction of Lizzie being on foot as negative. I took it more as a moment of being impressed, but slightly surprised at feeling impressed.
My favorite is Lizzy standing next to Georgiana playing the piano. She looks directly at Darcy with the most loving gaze while letting her arms drop to her sides in an absolutely open stance, communicating to him, "I am here, totally, with you and for you in love." This moment is prefaced by her comment to Georgiana about her brother when looking directly at Darcy, she says, "And you know he is never wrong," which grabs his attention in a very direct and responsive way. The whole film is a masterpiece of subtle, yet unmistakably conveyed human connection.
It's a beautiful scene.
Acceptance of
Lizz into family mould.. As
Georgiana's sister...
D stands vindicated... Hmm
Super choice of
Darcy nd Liz... Beyond words and
I can't comprehend.. More
I had always seen Lydia's trip on the carriage step as emphasising that, even with the "dignity" of being a newly-married woman, she was still impulsive, careless and unladylike.
Mr Collins got far more lucky than he deserved when he married Charlotte. Also, while she’s supposed to be plain, the actress is sooo classically beautiful.
I totally agree!
I would rather have Lizzie in dirty boots than a Venus who spends all her time in the garden !
1995 P&P is my hands down favorite adaptation, because there are so many subtle acting moments in it that honor what you read it in the book. In gloriously subtle ways at times, you see the characters come to life, which is pure magic to me.
I love paying attention to the background characters every time I rewatch it- one of my personal favourites is when Darcy is focusing on Lizzy and Colonel Fitzwilliam's conversation at Hunsford in episode 3 whilst Mr Collins is rambling on to him. Darcy mainly ignores him to stare at Lizzy but does occasionally give a nod of acknowledgement when Charlotte speaks. A small but funny moment!
95 pride and prejudice is my favorite version ❤ I'm a huge fan. Thank you for this video. I didn't know about Darcys thumb rub until you pointed it out😊
Glad you enjoyed it!
Edit: I see a bunch of people have already commented on this but I'll leave mine just for the mention of "Voi Che Sapete" if anyone didn't know the song and was wondering what it was. It's a fun aria to sing and very accessible for beginning sopranos.
18:32 I don't think Darcy is thinking of Caroline at all here. He seems to be thinking of Lizzy and replaying in his mind events from earlier that evening that made him realize she loves him back, such as her being protective of his sister and the looks she was giving him. A big clue as to the direction of Darcy's thoughts is in "Voi Che Sapete" playing in the background - the same aria Lizzy was singing earlier.
Yeah, there’s a little bit of “oh snap! Did I just say that out loud!? Heck yeah I did!” In his face as he’s walking 😂
I actually think the slight smile and look upon Mr. Darcy's face does not have anything to do with Caroline Bingley as he walks the hallway after they have all retired, but the realization that Elizabeth returned his loving gaze and that her heart has also changed. It is the hope and cautious optimism of what might be. I believe this continues the next morning when we see him fussing over what to wear prior to him calling on her, which I believe was to be the second proposal but was undermined by the terrible news from home that sent Elizabeth back home abruptly. Great videos by the way! I'm thoroughly enjoying watching them. This BBC version of Pride and Prejudice is a masterpiece, and I cannot watch any other version except for this one.
why on earth woud he be thiking of Caroline Bingley when his heart is full of Elizabeth
I couldn't agree more. He is reliving the warm and encouraging moments they shared and how kind Elizabeth was to his sister. Caroline Bingley and her efforts to insult Elizabeth are the furthest things from his mind.
I agree, the actors inhabit the characters so perfectly and believably. Any other version seems so contrived.
The expression on Mr Darcy's face as Lady C. de B. starts talking of how proficient she (and Anne) would have been if she had ever learnt to play the piano... almost as if feels acutely not how painful it is to leave Rosings, but to have relations 'of whom' he could be ashamed.
And the way he rolls his eyes when his future mom-in-law informs Bingley and him that her youngest daughter has been recently married...priceless!
God, I love 1995 adaptation. It was a sort of first crush and is always a fond memory
Yeah Colin’s micro expressions tell us so more to Darcy’s character don’t they. It’s as if he has a mischievous side that society daren’t allow him to display!
I have always thought the smiling Mr. Darcy does as he walks down the hall with his dogs is due to a hopeful pondering of "the look" he shared with Lizzy earlier at the piano, since the accompaniment to the Mozart song she sang is the soundtrack in this scene.
I thought this as well.
I love this adaptation. I watch it over and over. I feel a bit of a difference in interpretation of the scene in episode one where Darcy has caught Lizzie having walked to Netherfield. Where you said he was thinking “headstrong, obstinate girl”, I always feel he’s trying not to smile. I feel he’s chagrined because he should find it outrageous by the standards of the time, but he finds her nature charming despite himself. Great video ❤
Funny how we see different things right? And that in itself spins the story in separate ways for each and every one of us.
Agreed! Great observation :)
I agree. He looks like he is trying so hard not to like her tenacity
I think the meeting goes farther than that. I think he is shocked that someone he knows (albeit slightly) would do such a thing. And yet when he challenges her, she retains good manners and forces him to do the same. Elizabeth 1- Darcy 0.
Thank you, many interesting points. One comment: About your last point, (Lizzy not telling her father about Darcy's generosity) - in the book too, she convinces her father that she loves Darcy and that he is worthy of love, and obtains his consent and approval, without telling him about it! Only after he relaxes and agrees wholeheartedly to the marriage, she adds the information about Darcy's saving Lydia. I've often wondered why she didn't use that argument to obtain her father's approval - perhaps she didn't want him to think she was accepting Darcy out of gratitude alone.
One thing I didn’t notice on first watching, but thought was hilarious when I did - When they were visiting Lady Catherine, there was a scene with Lizzy talking to Colonel Fitzwilliam. Darcy comes over to speak to them. On re-watching, I realised that although the focus was on Lizzy and Colonel Fitzwilliam, in the background Mr Collins is busy talking to Darcy. Darcy just gets up and walks off when Mr Collins is mid-sentence like he’s not even there 😅
Oh yes. He seems to ignore Collins or even walk away from him in mid sentence sometimes
Its
Ribtickling
This version is THE gold standard for all “Pride & Prejudice!”
I agree. It is so beautifully done.
The 1995 version is my favorite. It is almost completely verbatim from the novel. I think there is only one scene from the novel that is missing in the movie. The acting, costuming, set, music, and cinemetography are great. I've watched the DVD dozens of times.
I think Jane Austen herself would be pleased with this version!
The 1995 version of Pride and Prejudice is practically perfect! I watch it often.
It is. So much effort was put into it. Scenes being dressed. Costumes. The lot 👍
If you’ll pardon a line from Mary Poppins, the 1995 P&P is “practically perfect in every way.”☺️
Me, too! I do not like the version with Matthew Rhys. ..all THEY do is rattle off their lines as fast as they can and Darcy was poorly cast. He should have had a more mature look and feel to him. In the 1995 version with Colin Firth the characters are so well cast and they act so well together!
Well, I think that would be true of ANY period drama.@@TudorSmith
The very first time I was watching the 3rd episode of the 1995 P&P, I remember being moved by the little scene where Charlotte Lucas and Elizabeth are talking about the approaching wedding of Charlotte and Mr Collins and their leaving for Kent. Lucy Scott conveys Charlotte's sadness to leave her beloved friend and the familiar surroundings and her anxiousness in front of the unknown she is about to encounter, very subtly, but it is all there for the viewer to see and hear within those few seconds. What a touching scene! I also savour the actress's superb diction.
Lucy Scott plays the role so well.
I lost count of the number of times I have watched P&P. Easily 40…50…? It still stands as my favorite film by one of my favorite authors. Each actor was brilliantly chosen and so believable in their role. I love all the little things you notice when rewatching it. Thank you for the lovely video.
I own this on DVD still and re-watch every few months. I appreciate others are equally obsessed 💚
This is great! I've just watched the 1995 version for the 100th time, clearly my favourite. The cast are perfect in this one.
100th time. That’s an achievement 🏆 👍
The 1995 adaption is overall terrific! Observe that not only Charlotte looks friendly at Lizzy in that scene. Also Lizzy while talking to Lady Catherine has this quick glimpse to her friend Charlotte as if she is talking with her eyes with Charlotte like only best friends can. (and probably that quick glimpse meant "OMG, this Lady is really as awkward as I expected" 😂) Surely it took Lizzy a little while after Charlotte left Meryton to " digest" that situation of Charlotte accepting Mr. Collins. But the series has that lovely scene when they first meet again in Hunsford with their greeting "I am happy to see you" - "and I you" ... which shows that their friendship is just as close as ever (again) and you can see their relief about that at the same time.
My favourite scenes are where Darcy looks at Lizzie as she turns the pages for Georgiana as she plays the piano, and my favourite of all is Colin Firth's sublime acting when he encounters Lizzie at Pemberley. He is so shocked, nervously trying to make conversation. He's smitten!
I have watched this wonderful series numerous times and never get tired of it. I agree that there is a subtle subplot happening where Mary is rather hopeful of attracting Mr Collins interest. I think Lucy Briers was quite wonderful as Mary and always enjoy watching her. I also think this version is vastly superior to the other versions of Pride and Prejudice.
My favourite nuance of the scene with Lydia's not-so-graceful entering the carriage is when she says "funny if I should fall and break my head", and Kitty peevishly replies in a low voice "I wish you would"😄 this in itself is quite hilarious, and then we get Mr Bennet's look at Kitty, which is just priceless. I noticed this exchange somewhere around my 50th viewing of the series (🤭) , probably because I originally watched a translated version that missed it, and since then it has been one of my top favourite background moments of P&P
This production is so rich in detail❤I don't know how people can fail to appreciate this fact and put the 2005 version higher. The modern movie feels 2-dimensional and totally lacking that quiet intelligent humour of Jane Austen's novel which Andrew Davies highlighted so well (in fact, often greatly added to😊) in his genious screenplay
Yes it’s a delight watching Kitty’s response and then Mr. Bennet’s reaction to it! Such subtle background acting but it completes the scene!
I just love how Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth "speak" with their facial expressions, they say so much more with their faces than with their words.
This will always be my favourite P&P adaptation❤🥰
They do work it so well.
In my opinion, Mr. Darcy is thinking about Lizzy as he's walking down the corridor...this is when he realizes he's got it in the bag. Darcy's new confidence regarding the direction of the relationship with Lizzy is what fueled the terse exchange with Caroline. Thank you, Mr. Smith!
Yes I see it now.
It' s my absolutely favourite version of Pride and Prejudice. Best screenplay, finest actors, best suitable music, indeed. Thank you for sharing your interesting ideas and feelings with us❤.
Thank you for watching 🙏
@@TudorSmith 👏🙋♀️
I love the scene where Elizabeth visits Charlotte and they have that thinly veiled conversation about how Charlotte manipulates Mr Collins into spending as little time as possible in her company. I love the demeanour of both actors conveying their shared humour
It’s a lovely scene. Prior to this Charlotte was hoping Elizabeth would visit her (often?) in Kent and then when they do meet, we see that Charlotte has taken full control of the situation 👍
This is one of my favorite things to watch ever, and one of the things I love and value so much about this - and the 1995 Persuasion as well - is the subtlety of the acting. The twitch of an eyebrow, the slight pursing of the lips, it is so subtle and you have to pay attention! I think no one could have done better than Jennifer Ehle at Lizzie.
I agree. The actors all got the facial “give aways” down to a fine art and make the productions all that much better for it 👍
I agree with all, except your interpretation of Darcy's emotions and mindset when Lizzy arrives to Bingley's house on foot to check on Jane. I don't think he at all was thinking "obstinate,, headstrong girl." I've never seen his mouth making a grimace there, but trying his best to hold back a smirk, a smile of adoration. She's so completely opposite of every woman he's ever known and he's completely enamored with her. I think it was him trying not to chuckle at his admiration for her independence. In the moment, he's always so pleased with what he sees in her, it's not until he takes a minute to compose himself that he goes through the process of convincing himself how wrong she is.
This is how I interpret his expression too, it's almost like he's suppressing a laugh
Yep I agree with you. He's trying to hide his delight and amusement. If you know the direction he had for this scene he's meant to be feeling super attracted to her and part of that attraction I think is (reluctantly) admiring her independence. But due to Lizzie's prejudice towards him she doesn't pick up on it and takes his reaction as him criticising her or being a snob again so she rolls her eyes.
I agree, I think Darcy is amused and trying to hold back his growing feelings.
And if you think about it, in the book, he had been in company with her, either dining or dancing, at least five times before he sees her here. That's way more time than Hollywood gives people to get together! He's pretty much in love with her already by this time, and here he finds her both admirable and adorable!
I love how we are many to rewatch this unique series again and again and watch it even more intensely and never get tired of it .
It had a habit of drawing us in. I know for my part I often use the P&P dialogue in my everyday speech 🤣 Happy thought indeed!
1995 BBC TV version is until now the very best, closest to the book and excellent made in every way. I just love this series.
Amazing that 67k have viewed your video in 4 days. Just shows the amazing power of this adaptation to still hold our attention 28 years after it was first broadcast. A classic without a doubt.
Yes I’m blown away at the response to this video. Clearly P&P is a firm favourite still after all these years. I’m very grateful people have tuned in to watch too 👍
I always thought that Lydia's trip was deliberate as they used it as a metaphor for her and her family's impending downfall and shame. Andrew Davis mentions in an interview that he wishes they had given Darcy and Lizzie more time to talk after the second marriage proposal "I was in the middle before I knew that I had begun" would have been perfect. Confession time I watch this masterpiece at least once a month it is perfection. Nice to know that others still appreciate this wonderful adaptation. Very enjoyable and interesting video as ever. Keep up the good work.
I hadn’t considered that trip as being a metaphor. Perhaps I don’t go deep enough 🤣
1995 P&P is the best version, hands-down. I will die on this hill.
The scene with Darcy walking through the hallway doesn't take place immediately after his triumphant admission to Caroline Bingley, despite it being the next scene. It is after the guests have left and the house is dark, the lights are extinguished, and if you look closely in the next scene when he's by the fireplace dreaming of Lizzie, he's in the very same room he was in earlier with the Bingleys. So in this sequence through the corridor and by the fireplace, he only has Elizabeth on his mind and all his smiles are for her.
Yep I realise that now 👍
My favorite little subtle bit is the scene where Darcy comes upon Elizabeth as she’s just read her letter. He sits her down, and gently takes hold of her arm and strokes it in an very gentle but unconscious manner to give her comfort. It’s like he just can’t help himself when she’s in such distress.
A lovely moment isn’t it? Darcy shows real care and emotion for Lizzy
Colin withdraws it too
Aftr maybe feeling
He's given too much on his feelings for her.. Perhaps..
As unmarried people were not supposed to hold hands... Etc..
In my opinion the best adaptation of the book ever. I have it on DVD and look at it often.
I interpreted the scene in the garden, where Jane runs out to beg Mr Collins go in to answer Mary’s concerns, was showing Jane’s desire to give Lizzie some time alone with Wickham and without Mr Collins around.
Yes someone else has suggested that too!
Same.
The scene where Darcy is walking down the corridor isn’t about his put down of Miss Bingley, huis head is too full of Elizabeth to linger on that conversation, no that triumphant look is a remembrance of the evening when he’s made a massive break through with Lizzie,he’s savouring all of what happened, even Miss Darcey noticed the looks being passed between the two of them whilst she was playing the piano and Mr and Mrs Gardener were by the end of this visit convinced there was something going on with Lizzie and Darcey. It’s a very well written book with lots of undercurrents.
This is the ONLY production that gave the source material justice. Cast couldnt be more perfect. I have heavy bias on this and im ok with that.
This is my favorite version of Pride And Prejudice. I didn't like the Keira Knightley version...the characters weren't developed enough for my liking and they rushed through a lot of the soliloquies that really robbed the scene's emotions. I have watched this series at least seven or eight times and have seen the items you've examined but never put them into words. These small actions just made the film all the richer to me. Thanks for sharing this...I loved it!
I’ve always thought the dialogue was rushed in the 2005 version. As if the characters were not given enough time to think before they spoke!
Exactly! @@TudorSmith
I have a serious problem I can't stop watching , I was obsessed by the book for years ,now it is a vid probably have to go for some kind of therapy
I've tried many times to watch the 2005 version but I find it such a shallow version of the book that i can never finish it. It's especially repulsive since I've watched the 1995 version and read the book the dozens of times. Good grief, I even have the audiobook, recorded by Karen Savage, downloaded to listen to when I'm doing other things like cooking, cleaning or crocheting.
My favorite version too. It’s 5 hours long, I think, so it can really develop the story.
I’m a simple girl, I see ‘95 Pride & Prejudice and I click.
I must say, I was not disappointed. And I did the same thing- I pretended Lizzy told Mr Bennett about Darcy’s activities to save their family.
I’m glad you weren’t disappointed and glad you did the click 👍
@ 18:00 I don't think Darcy is smiling in triumph over Caroline as much as he is fully grasping the realization that he is in love with Elizabeth. He admits it to himself and he is happy in this acceptance of his feelings for her.
I just read through the comment section and this is the popular consensus with the women-posters. Isn't it intriguing that us ladies read that scene alternatively than you did?
Yes. Funny how we see things differently and it seems I see things differently in all of the scenes I mention 🤪
For what it's worth...I do think, the background music in that scene supports the theory of him having 'tender thoughts' about Elizabeth, though.
At 5:36, I would like to submit my own interpretation of Darcy's reaction to Elizabeth's arrival at Netherfield. I think the suppressed emotion on his face is admiration not disdain for her rolling her eyes. He appreciates her energy and enjoyment of nature and, unlike Miss Bingley, is impressed and admiring of Elizabeth.
That’s a good observation 🙏
I was watching episodes 1 and 2 with my mother and youngest sister on Sunday. My sister remarked that Mary doesn’t wear her glasses as often- if at all- during Mr. Collins’ visit.
We think she was trying to look visually appealing to her cousin.
That’s an interesting observation. You can see why she would take them off in order to look more appealing. I wonder if this was direction given to Lucy Briers or if she herself chose to apply this character trait.
Thanks for sharing 🙏
She wears her glasses only for reading, not permanently. She is not wearing them in episode 1 on the way home from church, and there is no Mr. Collins to impress. Of course, she is reading in many of the scenes she is in, so we often see her with glasses. At the Netherfield ball, she puts them on to read the notes when she sits down to the piano, and removes them immediately when she leaves the piano.
Really liked this review. It brought my heart some joy to see another person watch this series with as much care and interest as I did. Amazingly (after having watched the series in 1995 and again this last week, over and over again) I did see all the subtle expressions and fine acting as you noted here, except the scene where Lydia is flirting with Denny in the background, as Lizzy and Wickam walk in the foreground. Thanks for pointing that out.
By the way, Darcy's warm glowing smile while Lizzy played the piano in Pemberly, is my MOST FAVORITE scene of the entire series! :)
One of my favorite hidden moments is when Darcy helps Lizzie out of the carriage. As he is walking away, you can see him flex the hand that he had just used to help her get out of the carriage, such a sweet little detail.
One little detail I noticed was the role of flowers in the series. There was a whole tradition of the "language of flowers" in the 19th century, with people in essence sending coded messages by the sort of flowers they presented. In the scene where Mr. Collins proposes to Elizabeth, she is arranging a vase of *sea holly* which is a flower a bit like a thistle, with prickly leaves. You couldn't have found a more appropriate flower to illustrate the uncomfortable situation which unfolds.
Yes I’d read that somewhere once. It’s an interesting observation too 👍
Nice catch on the sea holly. That escaped my notice.
“Unless you watch the series over and over…”. Yes, you’re one of us. I love catching these little moments in P&P. My favorite is seeing Mary preen while Mr Collins doesn’t even see her. I agree with Charlotte’s enjoyment of Lizzie vs Lady Catherine, but I didn’t see it as enjoyment until you pointed it out.
I'd never read nor seen P&P until my last yr in college & my roommates decided to do a marathon of it & Gilmore Girls before Finals Week. I loved it. The 1995 version. As I got chances to rewatch it, I truly grew to love watching Jennifer Ehle's subtle yet expressive facial expressions. They really make the scenes come to life. Eyebrows, eyerolls, sighs, smiling to herself, the puffed out cheeks. Utterly perfect!
Darcy's reaction to seeing that Lizzie walked - I saw that as him holding back a grin - that he admired her fierceness.
This series is perfection. I binge watch this every year or so with no interruptions.
I also binge watch 😂
18:38 I don't think Darcy wasted one single though for Caroline. He was only thinking of Elizabeth, and I wish you discussed the following scene of Darcy at the fireplace. That's my most *FAVOURITE* moment in the whole movie. I'm not sure how they did it, but Darcy's face lights up, his eyes start sparkling: that's the moment when he realizes that he can propose Elizabeth again. So beautifully done, so subtle and still so powerful. Beautifully done 🥰😍❤
Yeah so much is provided when words can’t justify the emotions. It’s a good catch from you and I’m going to watch it again myself to see if I can spot it.
Collin Firth didn’t win an Oscar for nothing. “The King’s Speech” was yet another tour de force for this amazing actor. He never disappoints . His detailed, nuanced Darcy is one of the best performances by any actor -male or female-I’ve ever seen. His “Darcy” is one reason why we come back to watch ‘95 P&P over and over. When my daughters first watched it, I told them: “Watch Darcy’s eyes. Every time you see him, his eyes tell you everything you need to know about him.” Whoever said, “The eyes are the windows to the soul” must have been thinking about Collin Firth’s portrayal of Mr. Darcy. ❤️
@@carolanneposey5211 Collin Firth is not my favourite actor, in fact, I don't think he's very good as an actor. However, his facial expressions are brilliant. He's the best when he plays the embarrassed. Like when he meets Lizzy at the house after a swim, or in Nanny McPhee when he's called out about Mrs Quickly. And yes, in the King's Speech. I think he's naturally a shy person and plays shy people the best.
He had a romantic relationship with Ehle during the shooting, that's why his eyes are so telling. He truly was in love, it's in his eyes ❤ No acting can replace true feelings.
One thing that both Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle do so well, and to me is a sign of superb acting, is how they vary their breathing. When we feel various emotions, our breathing changes -- we tense up, relax, stop breathing, take a deeper breath etc etc. In every key scene between these two you will see their breathing change in sync with the emotions flowing across their faces, and their pupils dilate and contract too. For example, when Darcy allows himself to gaze at Elizabeth, he tends to untense himself and therefore takes a deeper breath; it's such a natural, unconscious response and most viewers won't notice it, but it's a core part of what makes Firth's portrayal so impactful and believable for viewers.
I agree that they should've included the scene where Lizzy told her father what Darcy had done to help their family but another scene I know I would've loved is when Mrs. Bennet found out about Lizzy's engagement. She had disliked Darcy throughout the show and now he was engaged to Lizzy and all was forgiven, since after all he had 10,000 pounds a year. She was such a silly woman I know it would've been so funny to see her reaction.
Sharp of you to see Mary's smiles at Mr. Collins and Lydia's background flirts with the soldiers. I do disagree on your last point. Darcy is not thinking of Miss Bingley, but savoring the moment when he shared warm eye contact with Elizabeth. Caroline doesn't affect him enough that he would relish taking her down a peg. Rather, he has been deeply rattled by Elizabeth and is rejoicing in their fleeting moment of mutual solicitude. My take on this is reinforced by the music that plays as Darcy strolls the gallery with his dog. It is a sweet and joyful instrumental version of the song Lizzie had been singing. The memory is fresh and warm and his smile is innocent and soft, not smug.
In the scene where Darcy walks down the long corridor, I always thought he was contemplating the following day, going to renew his relationship with Lizzie. That he has made up his mind to marry her, and that those thoughts are showing on his face.
Think it's a different time to when he snaps at Caroline. I agree possibly next morning or a few hours later. Not when he's just left the room.
This serial is nothing but perfection…i have watched it more than 15 times and more to com as its my yearly routine
I do think you misinterpret Darcy's pleasure as he retires down the hallway. Caroline Bingley does not exist for him. He is dismissive of her when she is in his presence. He would give her not a moment's thought when she is absent. It is always Caroline and never Darcy who endeavors to solicit conversation between them. Notice he never looks for her reaction when he refutes her because he is not looking to score points either with her or against her. He is reflecting on Elizabeth. If I recall the preceding scene correctly, Lizzie gave Darcy her sweetest warmest smile with direct eye contact as she rescued Georgiana at the piano. He is savoring that smile and almost daring to hope despite his reservations. If nothing else, he is rejoicing in her adroit compassion for the sister whom he dearly loves. His thoughts are nearly always on Elizabeth or he never would have felt himself driven to proposal.
I think you’re right 👍
I agree with you on that
Yes. He is rejoicing that Elizabeth’s swift block of trauma to Georgiana was both fueled by her growing affection for her and at once followed by her quiet reassuring smile to Darcy that she would deflect any potential harm to the sweet girl. And, I dare say, to him.
I'm so glad I found this video! I read Pride and Prejudice (adapted for young readers) when I was in my mid-teens, and loved it so much I read it through several times over the years. I usually resist watching film adaptations of books that I've read because so often they change the storyline to such an extent that I feel like I'm watching something completely different, but for some reason I decided to watch this miniseries back when it first came out. The moment when Lizzy helps Miss Darcy at the pianoforte ("I'm neglecting you! How can you play without someone to turn the pages?") to cover her distress at hearing Miss Bingley say something about Wickham was a real turning point for me. Up to that point, I really disliked Mr. Darcy, but the way he looked at Lizzy in that moment, I absolutely fell in love with him, or maybe with Colin Firth. It's probably my strongest memory out of many lovely moments from the miniseries.
It’s a touching moment for sure. I’ve often thought Colin Firth gives us many subtle hints into Darcy’s gentle side throughout the 6 episodes 👍
The scene when Elizabeth is playing the pianoforte and signing shows something that Colin Firth does superbly--he is literally smoldering while watching and listening. He conveys the depth of Darcy's feelings with that look in a way that no one else can do.
Liz's looks too
She reciprocates so well.. 😆😊
He is indeed an excellent smolderer.
I had to go back to the book to double check what Mr Bennet knew about Mr. Darcy's involvement in Lydia's situation. You are right. Lizzy tells him only after she convinces him of her feelings for Mr. Darcy, but she did tell him.
Indeed. I think they should have included it in the 1995 adaptation.
I just found your channel and watched all the Pride & Prejudice videos, I loved them! Please do more of other period pieces!! I wore out my P&P vhs tapes, scratched the first DVDs, bought another set and recently bought the series on Amazon Prime, I've watched it more than 100 times.
Same! All three, plus on Audible
I think Charlotte knows much more than she lets on. She’s not silly and ignorant as some would let us believe. She’s fully aware of all of her friends strengths and faults as well as those of her family, and her chosen husband. She makes what she considers to be the wisest choice with the options she has available to her. The movie can sometimes frustrate us as to why on earth she would willingly go along with Mr. Collins. She’s too good for him by far. But once you’ve read the book, you understand better the actual situation she found herself in, and exactly how little her family had. She did her duty to her family as she saw it. I see her to be just as wise as Lizzy. Perhaps more so, from the very beginning. She knew what would happen, and she made the sacrifice to be simply “content” rather than deliriously in love and blindingly happy. You see that desperation in her voice, expression, and clasping of the hands to Lizzy when she admits she will miss her after she leaves and moves to her husbands house. She knows she’s leaving her whole world behind, and for whom, and it terrifies her. But her choice has been made and she has to live with it.
I do agree however that I think everyone who’s ever read the book or seen the movie (any of the versions) would probably be frustrated as to why the author didn’t just put Mr. Collins with Mary. It would have suited them so much better. But Mr. Collins was vain. He wanted a beautiful wife. He also needed someone extremely competent to please Lady Catherine. And the story would not have progressed in the same way if Lizzy had not felt the need to visit her friend after she moved away.
Yes. I saw the mini series first, then read the book. The actress playing Charlotte is young and good looking. So the necessity she refers to is less obvious. But as you say, the book makes it clear.
Also, while I enjoy Mr Collins for being absurd in the adaptation, he isn't as bad in the book. He was worse on the screen to be more entertaining.
@joannageorge7305 David Bamber the actor playing Mr Collins said there's only 2 ways to do him. Completely over the top campy or completely straight and serious where he doesn't realise he's the butt of the joke.
He plays the second one beautifully.
Also Charlotte and Lizzy are in different positions. Lizzy is young, beautiful, witty and talented enough. That can help overcome a lack of wealth.
Charlotte is older, plain looking, sensible mind but not the fast and charming wit of Elizabeth. And has no real wealth. She doesn't have much to offer in regency marriage market terms. She makes and takes an opportunity.
@@joannageorge7305 Oh Mr Collins is just as bad if not worse in the book - you have to read Jane Austen's subtilities in describing character.
He was humiliated by Lizzie's rejection and was having his feathers smoothed at the Lucas's. He proposed to Charlotte as a "so there" petty move. Also, there was a family quarrel, and instead of repairing it, he rubbed salt. Finally, Mary would not have suited him because the absolute last person a pompous ass wants to listen to is another pompous ass. IMHO
I like the part when, after the first ball where Mr Bingly and and his party are first presented, the group are relaxing at Netherfield talking about how tedious the ball was. Caroline remarks that "Jane Bennet is a sweet girl, but the mother!"
Bingly's response is a priceless expression giving us a glimpse into his open and honest temper as though he might try to excuse her if he could but.....no.....can't be done.😂
I had always interpreted the scene where Jane comes to fetch Mr. Collins for Mary as if Jane was trying to give Lizzy and Mr. Wickham some privacy, as Jane was aware at the time that Lizzy was interested in Mr. Wickham. It never occurred to me that the intention could have been for Mary to spend some private time with Mr. Collins. Wow. Thanks for the insight :)
I suppose it’s all open for interpretation right? It’s interesting to speculate though 👍
Mary might not have taken that initiative but she would be very happy to cooperate with the scheme.
The scene with Darcy and Lizzy where they run into each other as she arrives...to me, that little micro expression from Darcy seems like he was trying not to smile. He was somewhat impressed I think.
Yes I agree! That's how I read it also, the way he straightened his lips was suppressing amusement that she had walked, and found it rather attractive but didn't want to let on.
I agree. But I also think this scene shows that Darcy has that sort of snobby side to him that he's been allowed to nurture his whole life. In a way he's laughing or smirking at Elizabeth's breach of decorum by walking "on foot?" to see her sister. If Caroline Bingley or Louisa Hurst had been in this scene, they would have been making the same sort of face, because they are also incredibly snobbish.
But we begin to see, in this scene and in later ones such as the argument that Lizzie and Darcy have by the fireplace, that she is in effect calling him on this behavior, and forcing him to grow a little and stop taking himself so seriously, if he really wants to stand a chance of being with her.
Darcy of course, also has an effect on Lizzie in the other direction, in essence calling her on her penchant for being taken in by the BS of someone like Wickham and being overly judgmental against Darcy.
Lost count of how many times I’ve watched this series, just love it.
I think the reason in this version Lizzie doesn’t tell her father about Darcy’s involvement in Lydia’s wedding & paying off Wickhams debts is similar to the reasons she explains to Jane earlier - Mr Darcy has not given her leave to, and it involves his sister. Both Lizzie & Darcy would not want her father thinking she was only accepting his proposal for that reason also, she wants her family to accept his qualities without obligated gratitude. And I think it likely that information would not be held tightly by the Bennet family & be the talk of the village, giving Darcy great embarrassment!
Enjoyable video, thank you!
Ah yes that makes sense. It's easy to be able to pick holes in the plot when the bigger picture isn't taken into account. Thanks for sharing 👍
Lovely observations about an utterly delightful and ever-rewatchable production. I have a slightly different interpretation of Darcy's expressions in the corridor after informing Caroline of his impression of Lizzie. His little smiles of triumph are, to me, his very new delight in actually defending the woman he loves, in public--and perhaps also feeling pleasure at last to state his feelings so openly. (At least, more openly than he has before to anyone.) This brief declaration has overcome his natural reticence, and to me he seems to be grasping the wonderment at what openness feels like. (And, yes, I do think he might've also been thinking "thank heaven I managed to get that insufferable woman to STFU already.")
Yes I too am beginning to change my thoughts on that scene. It’s good that people have shared their thoughts and ideas because it paints a clearer picture for me. My spin on all the scenes I’ve spoken about, at least to highlight those little moments that I spied, are only based on my own interpretation of the scene and story. In no way am I implicitly stating them as fact. It’s all open for discussion that’s for sure 👍
I always interpreted Darcys smiles and the walk with the candle and the dog as a man "at home" not only in his house but in his own self, being relieved having finally "come out" as belonging, as it were, to a woman who has been scorned and ridiculed by his friends for months. He has been honest, he is in the right, and can carry himself with dignity and ease. I don´t think it had as much to do with Caroline Bingley being put in her place, though it had a certain satisfaction for sure.
Yes he’s definitely more relaxed in his own home. And the visual exchanges that Darcy and Elizabeth have when she’s runs to help Georgina at the piano after Caroline’s remark about Wickham - those glances say so much about the relationship being repaired.
I agree -- I don't think he has any thoughts of Caroline Bingley here at all. He's only thinking of Elizabeth. But this video was fun anyway
Just two things. I think Darcy is impressed when he comes across Elizabeth at Netherfield but knows he mustn’t show it, so is surpressing a smile and I think the candlelit walk along the corridor at Pemberley is him thinking to himself that he’s starting to impress Lizzy and he’s chuffed with himself that they had such a good evening together. Nothing about Caroline at all.
This is my favorite adaptation & actors. I did notice many of the subtle facial moments but the biggest unseen item was Lydia pulling the hat off & playing/flirting with him about it. I will be watching for all of these next time I see the series. That will be very soon now! Thank you for the fun peeks, I'd have thought nothing of the 4th wall being broken either as they seemed so natural.
The actress who plays Charlotte is so incredible. She totally captures the character.
She's very good isn't she?
@TudorSmith
Yes! The nuance and precision of her delivery gives dimension and realism to this small but important role. I looked her up, and is seems that she hasn’t done much acting since then (according to the internet). It’s a bit disappointing!
Yes that's a shame. She should do more.
Sometimes I think Charlotte comes across as opportunistic and irritating but she's actually a very clever, observant character and she gets things dead on.
Lov her...
As far as I remember, Darcy's help in bringing about Lydia's marriage to Wickham was supposed to be a secret. As Lydia mentioned It herself while visiting her family just afterwards, and when Lizzy's aunt wrote to her that Mr Gardiner was to get all the credits for arranging things. So I think it makes sense that Lizzy does not mention it to her father. Since she respects Darcy's wish not to have it mentioned. Or at least that's how I've always felt about it... No matter how it was meant to be, this is still by far my favourite adaptation of Jane Austen's book. So many little details make it a joy to watch. Which reminds me I shoud do so again very soon. And I'll probably notice all the things I previously missed until you told us about them 🙂
I like your take on it. It kind of makes sense as to a possible reason the revelation was omitted in this series 👍
Still watch the 1995 on repeat best version ever 🎉
It’s always worth rewatching 👍 📺
The `1995 version with Jennifer and Colin is by far the best and most saturated with Jane Austen's intent to entertain. You must also include in brilliant acting Anna Chancelor's reaction to Darcy when she is smiling at him at the dinner table and he counters her jab at Elizabeth , her smile remains, her expression almost unchanged but you can tell her spirit and joy has totally left her and the smile is a mere mask, a husk of a former emotion of validation now empty and she does it so well almost without moving, she is so funny there.
Anna Chancelor gives a master class in acting throughout the episodes. She offers us a character that we almost choose to dislike right from the start. Her subtle performances are a delight to watch!
There is some fabulous blocking/background work whenever the Gardeners come to visit the family. They are constantly moving and interacting without breaking character which allows for beautiful natural movement for the lead characters and the camera
Your videos are always so informative, insightful, and entertaining- thanks so much.
This adaptation of Pride and Prejudice was my first introduction to Jane Austen, and I’ve long thought it was one of the best Austen adaptation ever made. However, your “Things you might have missed” videos help me recognize anew how well and thoughtfully made it is.
I’m pretty sure that the production team were considering more than just the text/script in this release. All those background actions and micro expressions give us so much more.
@@TudorSmith Maybe this is just a semantic quibble, but I think that many of the incidents you point out reinforce the text rather going beyond it (if that’s what you’re suggesting. For example, you point out instances where Mary shows interest in Mr. Collins, and the text tells us that she was indeed open to marrying him. In cases like that, the actors, directors, etc., were trying to show us something through the characters’ actions that was made explicit in the text.
Absolutely. Demonstrating the emotions of the characters (Mary in this instance) without having the character verbally express their desires.
Great video! Thank you! My favourite example of actors in the background is in Episode 4 when Lizzie and the Gardiners are at Pemberley. As they are rushing to leave, having bumped into Darcy, he stops them and is talking to Lizzie. In the background we see the Gardiners and I love the way these two actors are looking so uncomfortable and trying to appear invisible because, at this point, they still believe Darcy to be a bit of an arse! It is wonderfully juxtaposed with the next bit when he starts to talk to them and is so friendly that their entire demeanor relaxes. Lovely acting by Tim Wylton and Joanna David. But I am not sure I agree with your take on Darcy when he is walking with the dogs along the gallery after the party in the music room. I don't think he is congratulating himself on finally shutting up Miss Bingley, as I don't think he cares what her opinion is on any matter. I think his secret smiles are all for Lizzie, as he is realizing that her feelings seem to have softened towards him finally! However, great fun video nonetheless. Keep them coming!
Yes some excellent acting from Tim and Joanna. Still in character even though they are in the background.
In the corridor scene, I never felt that Darcy was giving much thought to Caroline Bingley at that point. I thought he was finally getting past his own prejudices/pride and admitting to himself how much he admired Elizabeth. He is clearly self-satisfied that he has been able to do so.
That is how I always interpreted that scene!
More than that
Now he's every reason to believe
Lizz loves him... Reciprocating his feelings.. Ah.. Liz and Darcy looks adorable here... Mmm
Here's one thing I noticed. When Darcy and Elizabeth are in the carriage after the wedding, it's the first time you see a proper toothy smile from Darcy.
His anticipation at finally ketting to kiss Lizzy? 😂
1995 is the most faithful version ever. I regret sometimes that they didn't show Mrs. Bennett getting the news of Elizabeth's betrothal, but we've seen for 5 hours how she'll react, so... Only a few lines are added, such as Mr. Bennett saying that Darcy might not turn out to be a blackguard just because he's rich, and those are meant to speed things along, not dumb them down.
Lady Catherine in the Olivier version was a Scooby-Doo villain, and I don't know wtf was happening with the Keira version: Changing the dialogue all willy-nilly, with no sense of the beauty, irony and gossipiness of Austen's novel, and Longbourne looks like a pig's barn! Mr. Bennett is a gentleman, not a mud farmer!
Exactly that. The 2005 version doesn’t depict a gentleman and a gentleman’s home. Funny how they thought (as you say) portraying the essence of a pig farmer!
@@TudorSmith Thank you, sir. I omitted to say how much I enjoy your posts. 😊
The 2005 version had too many scenes that were so far off from what Jane Austen had written -- I'll highlight just two: 1) Georgiana being vivacious and talkative upon meeting Lizzy, and 2) Lizzy and Darcy making out on a stone table outdoors, she in night clothes and he barefoot. Couldn't take this version serious with this adaptation.
In a post to another video, I said that the 2005 version was high Romantic, which Austen was not. That version is the P&P story as told by Emily Brontë!
I enjoyed this video thank you Tudor. You've covered a lot in this video but have not mentioned Adrian Lukis much. I think his subtle and comedic performance is a little underrated. 1. I particularly like the scene where Wickham and Lizzy have that underhand duel behind a mask of politeness and fraternity in which Lizzy gives him the one final slap down to end the discussion of what really happened between him and the Darcy family. It's so cheeky of Lizzy to toy with him like a cat with a mouse with that tease about how Darcy must have been in town for a wedding.... She pauses deliberately to watch him start and then squirm, which Adrian delivers with masterfully understated acting. I don't think that was in the book, it's just really good screenplay? Then at the end of that conversation I love his walk of agony and shame which he communicates with his back to us, trying to puff himself up while dying inside complete with that toss of his head like a suppressed aaaaahhhh!
2. His reaction to Lizzy's earlier question "do you know Colonel Fitzwilliam" is great too. As is his face blanching with fear when he and Darcy bump into each other in Merryton.
3. I also like Colonel Forster's look of unbridled lust at Lizzy while she is dancing with Mr. Darcy. It's a little in the foreground to Mr. Collins' ridiculous drool so might be missed for that reason. There are other admiring glances to Lizzy in this sequence too.
4. I love Mr. Bennett's eyeroll in reaction to Wickham's fatuous "as the French would have it, aurevoir!"
5. The beautifully synchronized acting by the cast playing Maria, Mr. Collins and Charlotte at the parsonage with Lizzy and Col Fitzwilliam chatting in the foreground. They are in such awe of Mr. Darcy and are all hanging on his every word and gesture. Mr. Darcy's attention is so riveted on Lizzy that the way he ignores them so completely is hilarious!
6. Lucy Scott's finest turn as Charlotte I think is when she invites Lizzy to visit her. She communicates so much so subtly and so perfectly in character of her sudden fear as the reality of her new situation bites and she needs the support of her friend at her side.
I don't agree that Lydia's fall is unscripted because, while I think Nadia's whole performance is brilliant throughout, would she have been able to ad lib so perfectly in character with that language so appropriate for the time? It wasn't a phrase that rolls of the tongue today so I think everyone just acted really well.
This is my favorite version of Pride & Prejudice. Simply perfect.
It does take a lot of beating 👍
Mine too
I noticed Mary enamored with Collins, and her anticipating getting asked to dance a long time ago, and was so impressed with her acting. I probably noticed it because I’m an actor 😂
We actor types pick up on this kind of thing 👍
I noticed it too, but I thought it was my imagination.
5:22 I see Darcy's pursing of his lips as him trying not to smile.
When Darcy comes to see Lizzie right after hearing the bad news about Lydia from Jane's letter, Lizzie makes the comment about how all their family must participate in Lydia's disgrace. The next shot of Darcy includes a very subtle shake of the head and he seems to mouth the word "no". I love that part! 🥰
Oh that’s interesting. I’ve not picked up in that’s 👍
For me it isn’t the 1995 version, it is the only version.
The interactions between Lady Catherine and Elizabeth are some of my favourite scenes. I love the book more, but this series was a fair adaptation.
Mary's facial expressions when sisters Lydia and Kitty are fighting over a bonnet (the first example presented here) are to me remarkably similar to what one might have expected from Mr. Bennet had he been cast in her stead. Thank you, Tudor Smith, for this thoroughly enjoyable content.
Thank you for watching and for commenting 🙏
What do you mean IF you watch it a few times. Who can only watch it once.
Ah…good point 🤣
I’ve watched this so many times! It’s been a few years, and now I have to watch it again! This is by far the best Pride and Prejudice, and, dare I say, I prefer it over the novel, but that could be after having it pop up in multiple lit classes in university. This feels romantic. The story never felt nearly so romantic. The actors really make this series!
Julia tripping getting in the carriage was an accident, she ad-libbed and it was kept in. It was in one of their interviews....
Oh that’s interesting. I’d always thought it was accidental hence the reactions from the other actors. Someone commented that it was intentional and if that were the case, what excellent dramatic acting from Julia Sawahla!
Benjamin Whitrow did.a wonderful job with his facial expressions bringing out the charming narcissist character of Austen's Mr. Bennett. In other adaptations he comes across as kindly and loving which is not the way Austen wrote him. Whitrow frequently smirks at his wife or winks at Lizzy, completely changing the feeling of what he is saying. The opening scene is a good example, what he says sounds serious but the subtle smirk tells you he is not serious.
Yes, those little nuances are perfect for giving depth to the character when there are no words to be spoken.
2:57 Oh I agree I rewatched this week ans I spent so much time focusing on Mary. She does add to every scene.
I just read the book again, Darcy thinks is proposal is a sure thing and is discombobulated when he’s rejected. Also something I forgot is when Mrs. Reynolds says Wickham’s mother had extravagant taste, so we see why Wickham was always in debt. Also in the book Georgiana is described as not quite as handsome as her brother and painfully shy. Love the book.
One of my favourite little moments is in episode 1, when everyone at Netherfield is discussing the party at Lucas Lodge. Mr Hurst wakes up after clearly drinking too much and the subtle reactions from both Bingley and Darcy to his being a boor are priceless.
Mr Hurst doesn’t have a lot of dialogue but he does add a certain spark when he shares his few words. 🤣