Pride & Prejudice

I am a complete fan of the book, and know it inside out, so I was nervous about seeing this portayal of the classic. I am also a real fan of the BBC version and felt that a 2 hour movie could not possibly do the story justice. However, I was nicely surprised. This is a much more gritty version and no doubt shows life in a much more realistic light. Keira Knightly does a great job as Elizabeth, but she is the only really standout. Poor Mathew MacFadyen never stood a chance as Darcy - it will be difficult for any actor to let us forget Colin Firth in the BBC version. As a romantic, I was disappointed that the film did not end with their wedding - or at least a kiss. But the funniest moment of all was watching the US alternate ending - I will not ruin the moment here but it is just so crass, tacky and not to mention a complete fabrication. Jane Austen would certainly have been horrified but it is hilarious to see. I can understand why the ending was cut for British and Australian audiences. We would have demanded our money back. But then what does that say for for American viewers who obviously did not mind?!