This production of Pride and Prejudice makes a lot of alterations of a minor and inconsequential nature to Jane Austen's story, I am still trying to work out why. There was no reason for Mr Darcy to go skinny dipping, nor can I find any reference in Jane Austen to Mr Darcy working out his frustrations with with a fencing master.
Colin Firth is certainly the best portrayer of Mr Darcy, but I find there are a little too many smouldering looks and sullen silences. Jennifer Ehle, on the other hand is entirely unconvincing as Elizabeth Bennet, I much prefer Elizabeth Garvie in the '79 production.
The Bennet sisters are entirely dissimilar, and Elizabeth referring to Jane as the most beautiful sister is completely unbelievable.
Alison Steadman makes a wonderful Mrs Bennet in comparison to the 1979 production. Benjamin Whitrow similarly makes a perfect Mr Bennet.
Whereas the acting in this production is more naturally performed, the production lacks Jane Austen's gentility, something which is portrayed in abundance in the 1979 production. The dramatisation is not as well balanced as the 1979 production either, however the filming is exquisite and the selection of locations is near perfect.
This production is certainly one to be acquired by all Jane Austen fans, but the 79 production is to be preferred on certain points.