Common Sense Note
Parents should know that, despite a lack of objectionable material, this made-for-television miniseries' extended length, antiquated language, and subtle themes make it dead boring for younger kids. Even older kids may find the stuffy cinematography and formal, stiff manners of Georgian England a turn-off. But for lovers of literature, especially that written by Jane Austen, this adaptation of her novel is a treat.
Families who watch this miniseries might discuss what happens when a book is translated into a film or TV show. Is it possible to get every nuance of a book into a film?What sort of changes might be necessary in order to hold audiences' attention, to keep from confusing them with too many characters, and to telegraph what characters are thinking, when they don't speak their thoughts aloud? Also, students might use this video as a study aid, as it is quite true to both details and the spirit of the novel.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Ellen MacKay
This BBC dramatization offers a long, hard look at the hypocrisy and bad manners of the English aristocracy, as the Bennett sisters look for love among the wealthy. While the cinematography gives this version a stuffy feel, the effect is appropriate for Austen's setting. Literary adults will be quite pleased, but their kids probably won't sit through it.
Eliza and Jane Bennett, two of the five Bennett sisters, live in the English countryside during the early 19th century. Jane falls for the kindly Mr. Bingley while Eliza takes an instant dislike to Mr. Darcy, and you know what that means. As they try to overcome the pride and prejudices of their suitors, they suffer the misbehavior of the rest of their silly family.
Mrs. Bennett is especially crass in attempting to set up her daughters with any eligible bachelor she can find, and in the end Lydia, another daughter, takes a cue from mom and runs off with a dapper young cad. When the dust settles from this family scandal, the aristocratic men prove their worth.
Based on Jane Austen's 1813 novel, this made-for-TV adaptation is long-winded, but respectfully tells Austen's story. While students may find the movie helpful as a visual aid, those looking for something like the slick Paltrow version of Emma or the glossy Emma Thompson take on Sense and Sensibility will be disappointed.
Even so, there is plenty to enjoy here, especially for those already bitten by the Austen love bug. The acting is superb across the board, but the true standouts are David Rintoul as Mr. Darcy, and Elizabeth Garvie as the spirited Eliza. Even centuries after it was written, the story is as gripping as it is meaningful.
And surprise, it's also funny! Older kids and adults will appreciate the many comic moments, like when dour cousin Mr. Collins transforms into a bouncing fool on the dance floor. Equally funny is Mrs. Bennett's near meltdown when Lizzie refuses his proposal.
Beyond the humor, families will find the theme of devotion and loyalty between two sisters refreshing. While the Bennett family isn't exactly an ideal one, Jane and Eliza make the best of it. Older kids will identify with the Bennetts' imperfections, and may come to realize that the quirks of their own families are normal after all.
While there's much to recommend this adaptation, less ardent Austen fans may prefer Persuasion, or Sense and Sensibility.
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