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larkspur
Reviews
Pride and Prejudice (1995)
The timeless romantic comedy that appeals even to the most masculine males.
This adaptation is one of the best of Austen's timeless, superb works. As mentioned in other comments, the staging, direction, costuming, setting, score and acting are excellent, realistic, and true to the period. This film is highly enjoyable for these reasons, and comfortable for all Austen fans, who will recognize the effort put forth to capture the complexities of her masterpiece.
However, the most entertaining aspect of this mini series is watching the reactions of newcomers as I introduce them to both peerless film-making and the author behind it, particularly that of males. Many times have I persuaded my most masculine friends to agree to sit down with a beer and popcorn and watch the first film. If they aren't hooked after that, the agreement is that we'll change to any movie they want.
I have never been asked to switch movies.
I have always been asked to put the next movie in as soon as possible and not rewind each film immediately as is my habit.
Many evenings have turned to early morning as the six-volume set plays on, and always ends with sighs of happiness from both sexes. I have seen men more anxious than women to know the fate of Elizabeth or Jane. I laugh at that, pleased, and wonder if Jane Austen would be pleased at how her work, albeit through this masterful film is reaching people today.
The Three Musketeers (1973)
Amazing portayal of 17th century life
Richard Lester brings 17th century France to life within this wonderful satire of Alexandre Dumas' great novel, The Three Musketeers. Originally shot to be a three and a half hour epic, then split into two movies released eight months apart, The Three Musketeers accurately captures the first half the story. The acting is superb and the characters are brought to life by Michael York, Oliver Reed, Richard Chamberlain, Faye Dunaway, Raquel Welch, Charlton Heston, and Christopher Lee. The fight choreography, developed by fight director William Hobbs, is well done, and entertaining. But one of the more interesting side notes is the backgrounds to the main film depicting the royal and street life of France. Not only is it well researched, it adds a dimension to the movie that is lacking in other versions. The movie does an admirable job of recapturing the spirit of Duams' tale, and by separating the movies, the full story with all of its twists and intrigues is brought full Force. I also recommend the sequel The Four Musketeers. Highly enjoyable!