Based on the Jane Austen novel of the same name, Pride & Prejudice tells the story of Elizabeth Bennet (Keira Knightley) and her five sisters, who live with their overbearing mother (Brenda Blethyn) and their gentle and loving father (Donald Sutherland), in the English countryside. As the second eldest, Elizabeth and eldest daughter Jane (Rosamund Pike) face mounting pressure, particularly from their mother, to marry.
As a family without sons, it is compulsory on the daughters to find a suitable man and marry. This will ensure that the family’s estate, which can only be left to a male heir, will remain in the family after their father dies.
By chance, Elizabeth is introduced to the wealthy and handsome Mr. Darcy (Matthew Macfadyen), and their initial impressions of each other are cool. Darcy is aloof, and rather full of himself, while she is outspoken and quick to take offense. Nonetheless, the chemistry between them is immediately apparent. As time passes, their feelings begin to change. However, will Elizabeth let love blossom with a man she’s sworn to hate?
As someone who studied literature in college, I admit to never being much of a Jane Austen fan. Even so, I enjoyed the characters on screen, the acting is excellent from the entire cast, and the beauty of the costumes and cinematography are undeniable. Witnessing early career performances by the likes of Rosamund Pike, Carey Mulligan, Matthew Macfadyen and Rupert Friend is a treat, and the appearance of acting veterans Donald Sutherland and Brenda Blethyn are always welcome.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, fans will be pleased with this 4K release of the film. This exclusive release includes a beautiful 42-page book that includes behind-the-scenes photos, a foreword written by Director Joe Wright, excerpts from cast and crew, and more!
Presented in the 2.35:1 aspect ratio. This transfer with Dolby Vision is a visual stunner. Grain is intact throughout. Shadow detail offers strong dimensionality. Enhanced depth is immediately noticeable, as are the stunning textures in the set pieces and costumes. Flesh tones appear natural. Blacks are inky and colors are vivid. I didn’t notice the use of any DNR. The image is clean and robust.
The Dolby Atmos track offers clean, clear and concise dialogue. Sound effects come through with dynamic energy. The entire soundfield is used very effectively.
English SDH, French, and Spanish subtitles are available.
The following extras are included:
- Disc One: Pride & Prejudice 4K disc
- Disc Two: Pride & Prejudice Blu-ray
- Conversations with the Cast
- Jane Austen: Ahead of Her Time
- A Bennet Family Portrait
- HBO First Look: Pride & Prejudice
- The Politics of 18th Century Dating
- The Stately Homes of Pride & Prejudice
- Feature Commentary with Director Joe Wright
- Limited-Edition 42-Page Digibook
- Limited-Edition Packaging
- Digital Code