The plot follows Elizabeth Bennet (Keira Knightley), the spirited second daughter of a middle-class family, as she navigates societal expectations and her evolving relationship with the wealthy but initially aloof Fitzwilliam Darcy (Matthew Macfadyen). Their journey from mutual prejudice—her disdain for his pride, his struggle with her lower status—to profound love is complicated by family pressures, including Mrs. Bennet’s (Brenda Blethyn) eagerness to marry off her daughters, and external intrigues involving the charming but deceitful Wickham (Rupert Friend). Iconic moments, like Darcy’s rain-soaked proposal and the misty dawn confession, pulse with raw emotion, amplified by Dario Marianelli’s Oscar-nominated score.

Knightley’s luminous performance earned her an Oscar nomination, while Macfadyen’s understated Darcy captures both arrogance and vulnerability. The ensemble, including Rosamund Pike as Jane, Donald Sutherland as Mr. Bennet, and Judi Dench as the imperious Lady Catherine, adds depth and humor. Wright’s direction, with sweeping cinematography by Roman Osin, transforms rural England into a lush backdrop—Longbourn’s lived-in chaos contrasts with Pemberley’s grandeur. The film’s single-take shots and vibrant ball scenes enhance its immersive quality, though some Austen purists note condensed subplots (e.g., Mr. Collins’ arc) compared to the 1995 BBC miniseries.

Made on a $28 million budget, it grossed $121 million worldwide (about $190 million in 2025 dollars), proving Austen’s timeless appeal. It holds an 87% Rotten Tomatoes score (183 reviews) and 82/100 on Metacritic (36 reviews), with praise for its romance and visuals but minor critiques for pacing. Fans on X and Amazon (4.7/5 from 12,000 ratings) adore its emotional intensity and Knightley’s wit, often citing it as a definitive adaptation. The film won a BAFTA for Best British Film and garnered four Oscar nominations.