You know how in some movies, characters express their love with simple words like ‘I love you’? Well, wouldn’t it be lovely if they said things like, “You have bewitched me body and soul, and I love, I love, I love you. And wish from this day forth never to be parted from you.” Ah, but let’s not just dream – though dreaming is nice! Joe Wright’s movie Pride and Prejudice sets the standard for historical movies and adaptations of Jane Austen’s novels.
This timeless story has been retold in various ways over the years, but the 2005 version truly shines. However, if you’re craving more Austen-esque goodness or something akin to Pride and Prejudice, you’re in luck – we’ve got 10 movies similar to Pride and Prejudice for you.
Here are our top 10 movies like Pride and Prejudice..
Sense and Sensibility (1995)
Sense and Sensibility (1995) | ||
Genre Drama, Romance | Runtime 2 hours 16 minutes | |
Directed by Ang Lee | 7.7/10 | |
Cast Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, Alan Rickman, Hugh Grant |
Next to Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility is one of Austen’s most well-known tales. While it has been adapted multiple times, the 1995 version directed by Ang Lee stands out. Emma Thompson and Kate Winslet play the Dashwood sisters, who find themselves nearly penniless after their father’s death due to unfair inheritance laws. Their best option? Marrying a wealthy bachelor. But as we know, Austen’s world is rarely that simple.
Fun fact: Emma Thompson not only stars but also wrote the screenplay, winning an Academy Award.
Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)
Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001) | ||
Genre Comedy, Drama, Romance | Runtime 2 hours 02 minutes | |
Directed by Sharon Maguire | 6.8/10 | |
Cast Renée Zellweger, Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Gemma Jones, Jim Broadbent |
Colin Firth, known for many achievements, including his portrayal of Mr. Darcy, played the modern-day Mark Darcy in Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001). A contemporary take on Austen’s romance, the film follows Bridget Jones (Renee Zellweger), who’s navigating the challenges of dating and work. After a clumsy affair with her boss (Hugh Grant), she crosses paths with Firth’s Darcy, a snobbish lawyer. Just like the original Mr. Darcy, Mark has hidden depths and is quite the romantic at heart. The movie is available to stream on Netflix.
Atonement (2007)
Atonement (2007) | ||
Genre Drama, Romance, War | Runtime 2 hours 38 minutes | |
Directed by Joe Wright | 7.8/10 | |
Cast Keira Knightley, James McAvoy, Brenda Blethyn, Judi Dench |
Following Pride and Prejudice, director Joe Wright and Keira Knightley joined forces again for Atonement (2007). This adaptation of Ian McEwan’s novel is a heart-wrenching romance set during World War II. Keira Knightley and James McAvoy play Cecilia and Robbie, lovers torn apart by a false accusation that leads to Robbie’s imprisonment. The film also introduces us to young talents Juno Temple and Saoirse Ronan, with the latter receiving an Oscar nomination for her role.
Becoming Jane (2007)
Becoming Jane (2007) | ||
Genre Drama, Romance | Runtime 2 hours 02 minutes | |
Directed by Julian Jarrold | 7.0/10 | |
Cast Anne Hathaway, James McAvoy, Julie Walters, Maggie Smith, James Fleet |
Our Austen-themed list wouldn’t be complete without a movie about Jane Austen herself! Becoming Jane (2007) stars Anne Hathaway as Austen and delves into her early years and her love for Tom Lefroy (James McAvoy), a struggling lawyer. The film explores Austen’s personal life and the pressure she faced from her parents to find a suitable match – a recurring theme in her novels, despite her own single status.
The Young Victoria (2009)
The Young Victoria (2009) | ||
Genre Drama, Romance, History | Runtime 2 hours 03 minutes | |
Directed by Jean-Marc Vallée | 7.2/10 | |
Cast Emily Blunt, Rupert Friend, Paul Bettany, Miranda Richardson, Harriet Walter |
Julian Fellowes, known for Downton Abbey, gave us The Young Victoria (2009). Emily Blunt stars as Queen Victoria, and the film traces her early life and marriage to Prince Albert (Rupert Friend). Their love story stands out in royal history for being based on both duty and genuine affection. Prepare some tissues – the film’s details, like Victoria laying out Albert’s clothes daily even after his passing, might bring on the tears.
Jane Eyre (2011)
Jane Eyre (2011) | ||
Genre Drama, Romance, Mystery | Runtime 2 hours 0min | |
Directed by Cary Fukunaga | 7.3/10 | |
Cast Mia Wasikowska, Michael Fassbender, Jamie Bell, Judi Dench |
Jane Eyre, the cherished novel by Charlotte Brontë, has seen many adaptations. The 2011 version directed by Cary Fukunaga, starring Mia Wasikowska and Michael Fassbender, captures the essence of the original. From Thornfield’s mysterious atmosphere to the unfolding romance, this rendition stays true to Brontë’s themes.
Released on December 12, 2011, the movie has garnered acclaim for its outstanding performances, captivating cinematography, and faithful representation of the novel. With a PG-13 rating for some thematic elements and brief violence, it delivers a moving and visually rich cinematic experience.
Anna Karenina (2012)
Anna Karenina (2012) | ||
Genre Drama, Romance | Runtime 2 hours 45 minutes | |
Directed by Joe Wright | 6.6/10 | |
Cast Keira Knightley, Jude Law, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Kelly Macdonald |
Keira Knightley and Joe Wright teamed up once more for Anna Karenina (2012), a gem that deserves more attention. Based on Tolstoy’s novel, Knightley plays Anna, trapped in an unhappy marriage until a passionate affair with cavalry officer Vronsky (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) changes her life. The film’s staging and colors wonderfully bring Imperial Russia’s opulence to life. Released on September 7, 2012, the movie has garnered acclaim for its striking visuals, exceptional performances, and faithful adaptation of the novel.
Far From The Madding Crowd (2015)
Far From The Madding Crowd (2015) | ||
Genre Drama, Romance | Runtime 2 hours 09 minutes | |
Directed by Thomas Vinterberg | 7.1/10 | |
Cast Carey Mulligan, Matthias Schoenaerts, Michael Sheen, Tom Sturridge |
Adapted from Thomas Hardy’s novel, Far From The Madding Crowd (2015) directed by Thomas Vinterberg captures the longing found in many romantic period pieces. Carey Mulligan stars as Bathsheba, inheriting her uncle’s farm and attracting the attention of three suitors. The film explores themes of love and choice in the face of societal expectations.
Released on May 1, 2015, the movie has garnered acclaim for its exceptional performances, stunning visuals, and faithful adaptation of the novel. With a PG-13 rating for some sexuality and violence, it offers an immersive and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
Little Women (2019)
Little Women (2019) | ||
Genre Drama, Romance | Runtime 2 hours 15 minutes | |
Directed by Greta Gerwig | 7.8/10 | |
Cast Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Eliza Scanlen, Timothée Chalamet |
Who doesn’t adore Little Women? Greta Gerwig’s 2019 adaptation takes a unique approach by blending past and present, showcasing the growth of the March sisters played by Emma Watson, Saoirse Ronan, Eliza Scanlen, and Florence Pugh. Gerwig’s direction brings out powerful moments, like Jo’s monologues and Amy’s wisdom about marriage.
Commended for its exceptional performances, well-crafted script, and captivating visuals, the film stands out as a notable achievement. With a PG-13 rating for some thematic elements, brief violence, and suggestive material, it presents a poignant and engaging cinematic experience.
Emma (2020)
Emma (2020) | ||
Genre Comedy, Drama | Runtime 2 hours 05 minutes | |
Directed by Autumn de Wilde | 6.7/10 | |
Cast Anya Taylor-Joy, Johnny Flynn, Bill Nighy, Mia Goth, Miranda Hart |
Anya Taylor-Joy shines in Emma (2020), set in the Regency era. The film follows Emma Woodhouse, a clever matchmaker, and her humorous interactions with Mr. Knightley (Johnny Flynn). With its colorful visuals and lively banter, this adaptation captures the essence of Austen’s humor and romance.
The performances, visuals, and faithful adaptation of the novel have garnered praise, making the film a standout in its own right. Rated PG for some thematic elements and mild suggestive material, it offers a delightful and family-friendly cinematic experience.
Wrapping it up..
In conclusion, if you’re a fan of the enchanting world of Pride and Prejudice, these 10 movies are sure to capture your heart in similar ways. From the elegance of the Regency era to the timeless themes of love, societal expectations, and personal growth, each film offers its own delightful take on the spirit of Jane Austen’s masterpieces.
Whether you’re drawn to the swoon-worthy romances, the strong-willed heroines, or the captivating backdrops of different time periods, these 10 movies like Pride and Prejudice provide a wonderful array of choices for those seeking a touch of Austen’s magic. So, gather your favorite snacks, settle into a cozy spot, and let these heartwarming tales transport you to worlds where love, wit, and the complexities of human connections reign supreme.