Pride and Prejudice: 1995 BBC miniseries vs 2005 Movie

Pride and Prejudice is one of the most beloved classics of all time. The romantic story revolving around two of the greatest characters has captured many readers in the world. The heroine Ms. Elizabeth Bennet has attracted us with her wit and intelligence rare in the period set in the novel. The lead male character Mr. Darcy, with his standards and proud aura, has captivated many as well.

With the novel receiving many favorable reviews and getting favorable critiques, it was expected that the story would be adapted into the screen. There were many versions and adaptations, but the two most popular would be that of the 1995 BBC mini series, starring Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth, and the 2005 film, starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen.

1995 BBC TV serial

BBC’s Pride and Prejudice was composed of 6 episodes, and the entire series pretty much stuck loyally with the events of the novel. Audiences loved it, and the Rotten Tomatoes has given it a perfect 100%!

One look at Jennifer Ehle and you’re sure that she’s great for the role. She exhibits intelligence and sharpness that holds true to the character of Elizabeth Bennet.

Colin Firth has also brought about a great impression as Mr. Darcy. Both of them, him and Mathew MacFadyen, has been praised for their performances as the silent and serious hero.

2005 Film

Unlike the British TV serial which remained with the main storyline of the novel, the film had many changes. This is understandable as following the novel in its entirety would result in very long long long long movie. Scenes had to be cut and the storyline had to be revised in order to adapt it to the big screen.

Keira Knightley was nominated for an Oscar with her role as Elizabeth Bennet. She was also the only one of the Elizabeths that was of the same age as the character.

Matthew MacFadyen delivers a more brooding and silent Mr. Darcy, and is being compared with Colin Firth as to who is the best Mr. Darcy.

The movie is particularly complimented on director Joe Wright’s use of complex and sweeping shots that lasts several minutes. It eventually won him the BAFTA Carl Foreman Award for Most Promising Newcomer.

Aside from Keira Knightley’s nomination and Joe Wright’s award, Pride and Prejudice 2005 also garnered three more nominations in the Academy Awards (Achievement in Art Direction, Achievement in Costume Design, and Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures ), and four more nominations in the BAFTAs.