Two weeks ago I hadn't even read the book. Now I consider myself a laymans know it all on all things Pride and Prejudice. Okay, not ALL things, but I am getting the anotated book from the library in a few weeks and THEN it will be all things...
I read the book two weeks ago. I was a bit intimidated at first but once I got the hang of the language and the verbage it was a really quick read. I enjoyed the characters and I was blown away by the wit, creativity, insight, and descriptive language that Jane Austen had. Some of her characters really had me cracking up. The batty mom, especially. At some parts she REALLY reminded me of someone I know.
After I finised the book, Shannon M was kind enough to lend me the Kiera Knightley version of the movie. While I found the movie very entertaining and visually beautiful I was really irked by how much of what *I* found to be important in the book was left out. And I didn't agree with some of the characterization. While I think they got Wickam just right, I found Bingley to be a real let down. In the book he is not a putz at all, but the movie makes him out to be a real halfwit. And I really wasn't satisfied with Mr. Darcy. Too little personality. I don't know. It left me wanting more. And not really in a good way.
So Jeanette loaned me her 1980 BBC Jane Austen boxed set. Pride and Prejudice is five hours long. Of course in five hours (instead of two) they were able to stick much more closely to the book, but it was rather boring. Mr. Darcy was a REAL snooze. Never smiled, never showed an ounce of real humanity. There is no way I believed spunky Elizabeth would ever willingly want to spend the rest of her life with him. Bingley was better cast, but Wickam was WAY off. He is supposed to be dashing and handsome and have women falling all over him. This guy reminded me of Willy Wonka. And being that it was made in the 80s as a miniseries, it had a sort of Little House on the Prairie feel to the cinemetography. The background music was pretty cheesy and the lighting and sets were pretty sparse. At times it felt like you were watching a community theater play. I *did* like this version, but it left me with a real appreciation for the Kiera Knightley version - at least in way of entertainment value.
So I ordered the 1995 A&E mini series. Another six hours. Colin Firth was the Mr. Darcy and I didn't recognize anyone else. This one is by far my favorite. They hit on everything in the book, the costumes and setting and backdrops are gorgeous, and they got most of the casting right, though I felt that Jane wasn't as beautiful as the book set her up to be. But more importantly, they really took time to develop the changing characters of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth. You can see a real change in him after the proposal and more importantly, he shows some humanity even in the first half when he is being proud and difficult. You get a feeling that there is something to him, even if we don't know exactly what it is.
I am looking forward to reading the anotated book and really learning about the customs and culture of the time. I love historical fiction. If there was a major in social history I think I would have chosen it. Forget dates and wars and politics -- I want to learn about what they wore, what they ate, how their homes looked, and how people courted and fell in love. Yes I *know* that is all affected by dates and wars, and politics, but that part just isn't as much fun.
So there you have it. If you have six free hours and your husband won't be home, I recommend settling down with a good (but very long) movie. :)
15 comments:
The 1995 miniseries is the only one I haven't seen. I was incredibly bored by the 1980 version when I saw it, and while the Keira Knightly version is nice, you're right about it skipping over stuff.
I think I need to re read the book, too.
Wow- when you get into a story you get into a story! I too found the 80's version too boring- couldn't even finish it. Have you seen "Becoming Jane"? I think you'd enjoy it.
I have liked the colin firth version of it. I know that the kiera was definatly leaving things out too. I do like the period pieces movies too.
Couldn't stand the ridiculously cheesy ending (kissing in the rain and, as I recall, a lot of "I love you. kiss. I love you. kiss" (gag) of Keira version and yes--way too brief. I love, love the Colin Firth version but agree 100% that Jane was a little hideous. ;) And Lydia just bugged. But I guess she does. Mainly, I can't believe you just read it! Hooray.
Oh, and you should read Austenland by Shannon Hale. A very fun, modern application about a Pride and Prejudiced obsessed young woman.
I will have to read the oringinal and go from there!
Oh yes, Pollywog. THE ENDING. Brian actually watched that one with me and he turned to me and said, "I think I just threw up a little in my mouth." I had to tell him that is NOT how the book ends!! And I read Austenland a few months ago on my trip to Utah. I liked it. I will have to read it again now that I know the WHOLE story. :)
And Michelle, Becoming Jane is on my Netflix list. But we get to watch Anne of Green Gables first. Yay!
OK--another book to look for-- Darcy's Story--it is the same story so it is quite predictable but it is told from Darcy's perspective. Gives an idea of what may have been going through his head through it all. Jane didn't write it but it follows her style and is an easy read.
So how in the world have you managed to read a book, watch a ton of hours of movies, and continuing the sewing factory with your kids around all in one week?!?
Hmmmmm...did you get a nanny and a maid, or have you not been to bed since last Thursday?
What is your secret?
After your recommendation...I will have to read the book! And check out the Colin Firth version of the movie although I already LOVE the most recent version with Kiera Knightly.
Oh Man, I would love to see the A&E version, it sounds wonderful! - maybe I'll find it at a yard sale this morning! I hope you're having a great weekend!
It's been SO long since I have read the book, that I can't really remember how different it is from the most recent movie. But I just *love* the movie, as you know! It will always be one of my favorites. And the ending is actually one of my favorite parts!!!
Hey Paige! It's Kim (Beach) from high school! I have been lurking for awhile visiting your blog. It's been fun catching up with you!
I saw your newest post and thought you'd be interested in this story:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2007/jul/19/books.booksnews
I was in a forum for fiction writing and there was a thread about rejection letters. I thought about your Pride and Prejudice fascination and thought you'd like to read this!
Happy Summer!
Kim
Paige,
LOVE this movie. I am one of five girls and we watched this box set all day Christmas day one year. My brother about died and my husband won't come near it. :)
Congratulations! You are my apron giveaway winner. I am emailing you right now. Just wanted to let you know here. :)
Hey, I'm Brittany, Nicole's sister. I stumbled upon your blog today, I hope you don't mind if I post. I saw something about P&P and I couldn't resist! For fun, I am going to be reviewing shortly all of Jane Austen's books. (P&P is my favorite, I read it once a year). I will be publishing the P&P review on July 18th. Come on over and discuss with me!
So, Maybe we are stealing but we've been copying books on CD for our LONG trip and I so badly wanted to copy this book. I think I saw it free somewhere on the intenet but I'm not as good at that stuff like you. I will keep looking!!! anyhow, its been like i don't know 10 days since u last wrote a blog. Which makes me so sad...
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