Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Best movies based on Jane Austen novel

When it comes to English movie set in the 18th century, I can never watch it only once. I just love the way British people talk during that era. Some how they just sound so witty and yet refine at the same time. Not many people appreciate these kind of "dying art" as we are not accustomed to politeness and beating around the bush. Most modern movie now a days focus more on crass jokes and action pack. Talking for more then ten minutes during a scene could be consider boring and too long winded. My boyfriend would never accompany me to watch these sort of movies at the cinema.

In my opinion, the two best movies made based on Jane Austen novel would be:

Sense and Sensibility, 1995

I just love this movie, there is young dreamy love between Marianne and Willoughby but only to be torn due to wealth. There is also polite affections between Elinor and Edward which grew over time. This was beautifully portrayed by the wonderful cast.

When I watch this movie, I always dream of having passionate love at least once before settling down with a steady noble man for the rest of my life. This was beautifully conveyed by Marianne in the movie:
"Marianne: Can he love her? Can the soul really be satisfied with such polite affections? To love is to burn - to be on fire, like Juliet or Guinevere or Eloise. 
Mrs. Dashwood: They made rather pathetic ends, dear. 
Marianne: Pathetic? To die for love? How can you say so? What could be more glorious?"

Emma Thompson acted as Elinor Dashwood, a very realistic and responsible daughter. She is always able to act cool and calm in all situation especially when it comes to her true feelings for the man that she loves.

I have always a big fan of Kate Winslet acting. Most of the movies she always pick to act in is always intriguing such as Quills (2000) & The Reader (2008). In this movie, she portrays a young lady Marianne Dashwood, full of life seeking for love.

As for the male cast, Hugh Grant and Alan Rickman is exactly how I picture good old "boring" and respectable English man. They are not man of action, but man of words, wisdom and loyalty. It is really nice to just hear them speak slow and steady.


Pride and Prejudice, 2005



In my opinion, Keira Knightley did a wonderful job in portraying as Elizabeth Bennet. Through her acting, it was very clear that Lizzie was a young delightful witty women. Her greatest downfall is that she jumps into conclusion rather too hasty by judging people's behavior and intentions harshly. One thing I love about her character is her love for her sisters.

As for Matthew Macfadyen who portrays as Mr. Darcy, he was good acting stern and what i call "black face". I find it weird when he acts so lively in his other movies such as "Anna Karenina" which is another great movie which i will write another review on later. As the Chinese famous philosophy "Yin and Yang", this is why these two characters are just so drawn to each other.

One more character which i feel did an excellent job is Brenda Blethyn who portrayed as Mrs Bennet. She was so lively and entertaining to watch. My favorite part of the movie involving her was:
"Mrs Bennet: As you well know, Mr Bennet, when you die, which may in fact be very soon
Mr Bennet: As soon as I can manage it.
Mrs Bennet: - our girls will be left without a roof over their head nor a penny to their name.
Lizzie: Oh Mama, please! It's ten in the morning.
Betsy(the maid): A letter addressed to Miss Bennet, Ma'am. From Netherfield Hall.
Mrs Bennet: Praise the Lord! We are saved."