Pride & Prejudice’s Best Secret? Donald Sutherland Stole the Entire Movie and Made Me Cry

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2005’s “Pride & Prejudice” has been waiting for me at home with my Netflix subscription, but I felt it would be a special treat to catch its 20th anniversary re-release in theaters. It turned out to be an unforgettable experience, and what stood out to me the most was Donald Sutherland‘s portrayal of Mr. Bennet – a performance I couldn’t stop thinking about afterwards.

I’m astonished that it’s been two decades since Joe Wright’s “Pride and Prejudice” was released, as the film seems as fresh and captivating today as it did back then. The only giveaway of its age is seeing the talented cast in their younger years. My recent cinema trip confirmed for me how timeless and elegant this movie remains, earning a top spot among my favorite films adapted from classic literature. I went into the movie anticipating the delight of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy’s romance, but I found myself taking a moment to appreciate Donald Sutherland’s performance in the film.

Donald Sutherland’s Performance As Mr. Bennet Really Floors Me

For the first time since Donald Sutherland’s passing in 2024, I watched the movie again. Although my focus might have been more on Mr. Bennet due to his passing, I believe it wouldn’t have mattered much because Donald Sutherland was truly the unsung hero of this film.

In the story, Mr. Bennet is the father of Elizabeth, and the character Sutherland often plays a secondary role. The majority of attention in the narrative is given to Knightley’s portrayal of a young, strong-willed woman dealing with courtship by multiple men while living with her four sisters during 18th-century England. Despite his minor role, Sutherland leaves a lasting impact as he is the one who moved me to tears when the movie comes to an end.

I Love His Reaction When Elizabeth Rejects Mr. Collins

In the movie, prior to the unorthodox proposal scene involving Mr. Collins (portrayed by Tom Hollander), there’s a subtle moment between Elizabeth and her father where they share significant glances, indicating their mutual discomfort towards the clergyman. This moment subtly conveys their emotional bond, which becomes crucial later when he asks for Elizabeth’s hand in marriage.

In this captivating film, I find myself empathizing with the protagonist as he stands firm, despite being rejected, when a prosperous life could have been his for the taking. It’s evident that we, the viewers, are on his side. The character’s mother swiftly erupts in anger over her daughter’s actions, but remarkably, the father demonstrates unwavering loyalty by declaring he would cut off all ties if she were to renege on her decision and succumb to her mother’s pressure.

The manner in which Mr. Bennet navigates the situation involving Mr. Collins left me feeling as if I were observing an authentic relationship, for it showcases how his fatherly guidance nurtures Elizabeth’s steadfast personality and her inclination towards making decisions based on what she believes is right. In contrast to many women of her era who might have passively agreed to any proposal out of fear, Elizabeth stands out due to her resistance to conform just to fit in.

As a moviegoer, I can relate to Mr. Bennet’s heartfelt concern for his daughter’s happiness over societal politics, much like my own father on numerous occasions when my mother gets too immersed in the details and emotions. On these instances, it feels as though dads are standing by our side because they truly understand us in a way no one else does – just like a faithful movie companion who always has our back!

The Scene That Made Me Cry Was When He Realizes Elizabeth Has Found Her Husband

During my recent rewatch of Pride and Prejudice, a particular scene stood out to me. It’s the one right after Mr. Darcy proposes to Elizabeth, and he goes to speak with his daughter. Despite the fact that his new suitor is already wealthy, he’s perplexed because he hadn’t anticipated this marriage since she had made it clear she disliked Mr. Darcy. However, Elizabeth clarifies that she was wrong about him, as it took her some time to truly understand his virtues.

It’s implied that she proceeds to share with him the story of how Mr. Darcy, who initially discouraged Mr. Bingley from pursuing her eldest sister Jane, subsequently took steps to reconcile them later on. Additionally, she mentions that he located their youngest sister Lydia, who had eloped with Wickham, and secretly financed their wedding. The play concludes with Mr. Bennet in tears as he acknowledges his daughter has found a worthy man and is deeply in love, prompting him to remark:

“Ah, my dear child! You are gone, you are happy; and I would not wish you otherwise.” (Pride and Prejudice)

I could not have parted with you, my Lizzy, to anyone less worthy.

In that instant, I found myself choked up. It wasn’t until this viewing that I truly grasped how much Pride & Prejudice revolves around a family’s bond with marriage, as well as romantic love. This simple yet profound aspect really resonates with me. In a single scene, Donald Sutherland masterfully expresses a lifetime of deep affection for his daughter, who he must eventually relinquish to her future husband. Seeing the contentment on his face, knowing that his daughter will be well and happy as he grows older, is the most heartwarming moment in the entire film, as far as I’m concerned.

Pride & Prejudice’s Romance Is Actually Better Because It Includes The Father’s Perspective With Such Vulnerability

Instead of focusing on stories where a young woman falls in love against her parents’ wishes, this one stands out as more romantic to me because it includes heartwarming moments between the daughter and her father. While it’s great when female characters follow their hearts instead of adhering to societal expectations, there’s something truly special about this story where the father supports the daughter in her journey and feels proud when she finds her soulmate. What makes this movie unique is that it emphasizes Elizabeth’s bond with her father, which ultimately leads to his happiness rather than focusing on her relationships with her sisters or others.

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2025-05-06 14:53