One Poor Sonnet

Bethy McBethles has posted recently about her escape from the stresses of life - extraordinarily more stressful as of late - into the world of entertainment. I, too, divert myself down this path, however not into the world of action (ala 'Prison Break') or snarky medical dramas (ala 'House').

I used to have two comfort movies - the flicks to which I ran away over and over, depending on my mood. When I needed reassurance that there is still good in a broken world, I watched 'Babe.' When James Cromwell says, "That'll do, Pig... That'll do," give me a tissue and somehow life is alright again.

When I needed to vent my cheekiness or ire, I'd rely on the crass 'A Fish Called Wanda' for its brilliant British wit, not to mention Kevin Kline in perhaps his best role ever. And I'm sorry, Beth, but even if the Monty Python boys are getting a bit geriatric, John Cleese and Michael Palin still do it for me. ;o)

Nowadays, my comfort movie has become the (2005) Keira Knightly version of 'Pride & Prejudice.' While I still love the (1995) Colin Firth version, Keira has won me over with her portrayal of Elizabeth Bennet. Plus Donald Sutherland, in a surprisingly wonderful role for him, can make me weep happy tears like none other. Who woulda thunk it? (sniff)

I'm too exhausted from my real life romantic woes (or lack thereof) to expound much on the story behind it, but here's my favorite scene from the movie, following Mr.Darcy's rude dismissal of Elizabeth at the ball:

Lizzie: I wonder who first discovered the power of poetry in driving away love?

Darcy: I thought that poetry was the food of love?

Lizzie: Of a fine, stout love it may, but if it is only a vague inclination I'm convinced one poor sonnet will kill it stone dead.

Darcy: So what do you recommend to encourage affection?

Lizzie: Dancing... even if one's partner is barely tolerable.

Just the look alone on Keira's face as she bows to Darcy and walks away following that last remark should have earned her the Oscar. The rest - the stellar cast and beautiful story - is just icing on the cake. I also still marvel at the scene at the long awaited Netherfield ball. I haven't timed it, although it must be a good 10-15 minutes, and it always makes me drop whatever I'm doing to stop and gawk. There is one long continuous shot, weaving through the rooms of this English manor, and picking up the dialogue and subtle actions of about a dozen principle players. The execution of that scene is flawless and a cinematic marvel.

Then there's also the WORST marriage proposal EVER. Seriously, it will make you cringe. See, there's just so much to love about this movie. If you haven't seen it already, I *highly* recommend that you pick up a copy and sit down some quiet afternoon or evening to enjoy a delightful retelling of Jane Austen's beloved novel.

I've rambled long enough now, so I'll sign off before I'm tempted to type the script verbatim.

That'll do, Lisa... That'll do. :o)