Discovering this version

I am doing a summer holiday vacation 'study' of P and P and was led to this version by an on-line friend. (It was actually first screened in the year that I was born!) I have since managed to 'get hold' (i.e. download) it and am in the process of watching it, episode by episode. I have also recently re-watched the 1995 version and the 2005 movie, and I will be (boring everyone by!) passing comments of comparison between the three versions.

The first few things that have struck me so far (I have just watched Episode 1 of the 1980 version) are:-

1. The language used in this version is noticeably different to the two more modern versions. I do not know whether this is because of a desire to stick more faithfully with the book in this version, or whether it is because the actors want to deliver their lines clearly - either way, it strikes me as a little 'forced'.

2. I am getting confused easily as all of the Bennet girls seem to look a lot like each other - which I suppose is natural in sisters, but is not like the more recent versions, where each of the girls has a different role to play in the story and is very different to the others, both in looks and nature.

3. I recognise Marsha Fitzhalan (Caroline Bingley) from her playing of the equally snobby wife of the politician Alan B'stard in the British TV comedy series 'The New Statesman', and Tessa Peake-Jones (who - despite a dreadful pageboy haircut and Billy Bunter glasses - is far too pretty to play Mary!) from her role as Raquel in the British TV comedy 'soap' 'Only Fools and Horses'.

Motre coments to follow. Reactions and responses greatefully received......

Karen St.

15th August 2009

Happiness isn't happiness without a violin-playing goat.