Pride and Prejudice (1995 TV Series)

About Pride and Prejudice

The 1995 TV miniseries, Pride and Prejudice, is an adaptation of Jane Austen's 1813 novel of the same name. The story follows the spirited and intelligent Elizabeth Bennet, one of five sisters in the Bennet family, as she navigates the societal pressures of the English countryside, family expectations, the intricate dance of courtship, and her own complex feelings towards the handsome but aloof Mr. Darcy.

Making / Production

Pride and Prejudice was a collaboration between British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) and American company A&E Networks. It was filmed entirely on location in period-appropriate settings across England. The screenplay was written by acclaimed British writer, Andrew Davies, and it was directed by Simon Langton.

Actors

• Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy: Firth brought a balance of haughtiness and vulnerability to his portrayal of the proud but misunderstood Darcy.
• Jennifer Ehle as Elizabeth Bennet: Ehle portrayed Elizabeth as smart, independent, and witty, capturing her spirit beautifully.
• David Bamber as Mr. Collins: Bamber's portrayal of Mr. Collins was perfectly pompous and obsequious.
• Julia Sawalha as Lydia Bennet: Sawalha played the frivolous and flirtatious Lydia perfectly.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The scene where Mr. Darcy (Colin Firth) dives into the lake was not in the original novel but is now one of the most memorable scenes of the series.
• Though the novel is set in the early 19th Century, the costumes in the BBC adaptation deliberately mixed in aspects of late 18th Century fashion.

Awards

The TV Series was highly acclaimed, garnering several awards and nominations, including a BAFTA Television Award for Jennifer Ehle for Best Actress and the Emmy for Outstanding Individual Achievement in Costume Design for a Miniseries or a Special.

Quotes

• "In vain have I struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you." - Mr. Darcy
• "I could easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified mine." - Elizabeth Bennet

Music, Soundtrack

• The original score was composed by Carl Davis, notable for its use of period instruments and evocative themes.
• The theme "Opening Title Music" sets the course for the show, establishing the romantic atmosphere of the series.