Do we need another Pride and Prejudice adaptation when we already have two perfect ones, plus a post-canon murder mystery spin-off? No, no, we do not. But do we need to see Jack Lowden as Mr. Darcy? Absolutely. There’s no question about it.
The new limited series set to air on Netflix is likely making viewers rightfully nervous. The modern adaptation of Persuasion wasn’t exactly revered among most die-hard or even casual Austen fans, so it’s understandable that people might not be welcoming to the news. Plus, with the 20th anniversary of Joe Wright’s Pride and Prejudice taking people back to the theatres, the concerns are entirely understandable.
But Jack Lowden is the type of performer who’s undoubtedly going to bring his A-game, and, in turn, he’ll make his version of Darcy someone’s new favorite. Austen adaptations aren’t uncommon, so it’s fascinating how Pride and Prejudice is the one that causes the most uproar. People don’t flinch as quickly when there’s another version of Emma. Still, Lowden is a sensational performer, and the angst and anxiety he’ll bring to Mr. Darcy is something I can’t wait to see.
Deadline reports that the adaptation will also star the Olivia Colman as Mrs. Bennet and Emma Corrin as Elizabeth, both of whom are also undoubtedly capable actors. With more and more announcements coming in as production begins, it’s also imaginable that some fans might find themselves searching for more filmography to follow along with. Luckily, Jack Lowden has plenty of roles that can allow new fans to see his range, like Mary Queen of Scots or Apple TV+’s Slow Horses. Lowden is a skilled performer who makes escaping into a role appear so seamless that every time you watch him in something, it’s hard to believe he’s the same actor from another property you’ve seen him in.
Plus, and let’s be shallow for a minute—the man’s hot. In addition, so much of the reason Darcy is so beloved is because he’s played by actors with a specific charm that makes it easy to root for his arrogance. Lowden’s specific strength is his ability to communicate with his expressions, and that’s certainly going to add layers to Darcy that we may not have seen before. The great thing about adaptations is that every actor does indeed bring something that’s uniquely theirs. Many longtime Austen fans are also still sleeping on the quiet softness Matthew Rhys layers his Darcy with in Death Comes to Pemberley. And whatever unique trait Jack Lowden will bring, he’ll be undeniably attractive while doing so.
At the moment, Netflix promises that this will be a faithful adaptation, and with it being a mini-series, we’ll likely get something profound. More than anything, as an actor who’s great at showcasing vulnerability (see Slow Horses), I can’t wait to see the heart Lowden will layer Darcy with. Whatever happens, another Darcy is entering the chat, and we can at least have a blast discussing who’s a personal favorite and why. Again, we don’t need it, but it’s going to be a joyride looking at him, and for that, casting directors are completely in the right for deciding that he’s the next best thing.
First Featured Image Credit: ©Apple TV+