This BBC version with Elizabeth Garvie as Elizabeth and David Rintoul as Darcy is faithful to the story and spirit of the book. Despite some flaws, it is much better than the A&E version. Apparently, the BBC version is coming out on DVD in summer 2004. The BBC Elizabeth is lovely, intelligent and lively within the social restrictions of the period. In contrast, the A&E version portrays Elizabeth as petulant and narcissistic and it feels like a contemporary character. David Rintoul is a physically striking and very aloof Darcy. It appears as if the director wasn't quite certain about Darcy because there are a few moments where he appropriately relaxes and shows some emotion. But this is inconsistent and there should have been a few more. Colin Firth in the A&E version is intelligent but seems more depressed than proud. The important relationship between Elizabeth and her father is shown in the BBC version but completely ignored in the A&E version. The BBC Wickham is very attractive,charming, and intelligent while the A&E Wickham is lackluster and not sufficiently attractive for this character.
Review of Pride and Prejudice
