The 2005 romantic film 'Pride & Prejudice' is a cherished favorite for many. The captivating story of the handsome Mr. Darcy and the spirited Elizabeth has left an indelible mark on our hearts. However, were you aware that this beloved film has a little-known alternative ending? Uncover the details below 👇'
The film revolves around Mr. and Mrs. Bennet and their five daughters—Jane, Elizabeth, Mary, Kitty, and Lydia—living in Longbourn, rural England in the late 18th century. The story unfolds with Jane falling in love with the wealthy bachelor Charles Bingley, while Elizabeth develops an initial dislike for Bingley's friend, Mr. Darcy. Key events include Elizabeth visiting Jane at Netherfield, Mr. Collins proposing to Elizabeth, and the revelation of Lieutenant Wickham's story working for Darcy. Darcy proposes to Elizabeth, faces rejection, but their relationship evolves, leading to an eventual engagement. Lydia's elopement with Wickham adds a crucial twist to the story. Finally, Bingley proposes to Jane, and the couple becomes engaged.
However, what most fans don't know is that the film has two different endings—an original version and a U.S. version.
In contrast, the U.S. version includes an additional moment between Elizabeth and Darcy to enhance the romantic aspect of their relationship.
The original UK version concludes with a scene between Elizabeth and her father. In this scene, Elizabeth narrates her changing feelings toward Darcy and describes his actions that altered her perception. Despite supporting Elizabeth's previous rejection of Mr. Collins' proposal, Mr. Bennet approves of her marriage after witnessing her happiness and loyalty to Darcy. The final scene shows Mr. Bennet laughing approvingly at these developments.
However, the alternative U.S. ending provides a more fulfilling closure for those who desire more from Elizabeth and Darcy's newly established relationship.
The couple engages in a discussion about how Darcy should address Elizabeth when they marry. Elizabeth insists that he should call her 'Mrs. Darcy' only when he is 'completely, perfectly, and incandescently happy.' Subsequently, as Darcy kisses Elizabeth's face and lips, he repeats her name several times. This kiss is unique as Elizabeth and Darcy, characteristic of Austen's works, never kiss in the remaining part of the film or the source novel.
Some found it accidentally funny or overly staged and exaggerated, while others thought it was unnecessarily sexualized. However, the scene was retained in the U.S. version due to a more positive response from American audiences.
The U.S. ending provides more closure to Elizabeth and Darcy's love story, offering a resolution to the built-up romantic tension throughout the film.
For some, the allure of her novels comes from conveying chemistry and emotions through subtle and seemingly insignificant moments. In 'Pride & Prejudice,' some of the most beloved interactions between Elizabeth and Darcy involve smaller details, like their hands brushing as Darcy helps Elizabeth into a carriage, or intense eye contact shared while trying to stay away from each other.
The original version leaves the rest of Elizabeth and Darcy's partnership to the viewer's imagination, showcasing the effectiveness of everyone's contributions.