Pride & Prejudice: A New Musical

2020, Directed by Robert Kelley

Enjoyment Rating: 4 out of 5

TLDR: Very interesting, overall enjoyable adaptation with some catchy songs. Definitely would watch again.

This film is a recording of a live stage production. It opens with the iconic quote and the cast singing "Happiness in Marriage". Elizabeth's differences from the rest of her family are highlighted and returned to throughout the show with the song "Headstrong".

At Netherfield, Bingley and Jane seem to struggle to speak to each other, though their attraction is great. This leads to Darcy sometimes speaking on behalf of Bingley which works if the viewer is not closely familiar with the book. Early on, Darcy has a song reflecting on his station in life and overall is pretty emotive. Again, it works if one is not closely familiar with the book and does starkly differentiate this version from the many other variations that portray Darcy as stiff and difficult to read.

A comedic highlight throughout the show is Mary and her one-liners. She also announces many of the scene changes which was amusing. Mr. and Mrs. Bennet were very well cast and Mr. Collins was suitably ridiculous. Lady Catherine's song was great and I loved that everyone except Darcy and Elizabeth was singing backup. It was a fitting demonstration of how everyone is expected to bow to her every whim but Darcy is determined to do his own thing.

Wickham's backstory was changed and he was given an entire song about how he was supposedly made for religious life and ministry. Near the end of the show, he has a comedic moment of flirting with the audience but there was a moment when he sang "She gives her virtue to me," and I honestly found it a bit creepy considering the age difference between him and Lydia.

Darcy at Pemberley appeared suave, almost too smooth. It worked in the show because of the chemistry between the actors. But at the same time, the change in his behavior doesn't feel as drastic as other adaptations where Darcy's feelings are kept mysterious. The opportunities for the audience to see into his heart make the depth of his feelings more apparent.

Darcy "I've written you a letter since clearly I find speaking far too challenging."