
In 2022, Wright shared with me his perspective on the film he was working on, emphasizing that it was penned by a young author who was blossoming in their abilities during the writing process, giving it a fresh, youthful feel. He stressed the importance of focusing on youth and maintaining that lively spirit throughout the production. Interestingly, the lead actress, Keira Knightley, was 18 when cast and 20 at the film’s release, while her younger sister characters, including Carey Mulligan in her debut role, were similarly aged. The actor portraying Darcy, Matthew MacFadyen, was in his late twenties and captured the awkward, youthful demeanor fitting for this adaptation’s interpretation of the suave yet distant gentleman who falls for Elizabeth.
In the original novel, the wealthy and proud Darcy’s aloofness hinted at his doubts about associating with those of lower social standing. In Wright’s film, the character’s reserve stems from shyness, given the need to condense their relationship development within a shorter narrative. Here, Elizabeth and Darcy’s attraction emerges swiftly, although they may not fully recognize it; their mutual feelings are expressed subtly through eye contact, gestures, and emotional nuances over the course of two hours, creating an authentic portrayal of budding desire, fear, and sadness.