Move Over, Darcy
The miniseries North and South 2004 is the only period drama that has ever made me question my undying love for Fitzwilliam Darcy. John Thornton played by Richard Armitage is a romantic force to be reckoned with. Not only is he dark and brooding, but he talks. He actually tells the heroine what he’s thinking. We also get glimpses of his family life, which further illustrate his character. That alone makes him a viable candidate to topple Mr. Darcy as my favorite film hero.
Now, if we could eavesdrop on Darcy at Rosings or at Pemberley when he’s talking to his cousin or Georgiana, perhaps we would see more of his romantic arc as well. That’s one of the reasons Jane Austen Variations are so popular today. I don’t think any Pride and Prejudice fan wants the story to end. We want more Darcy. That’s why I write Jane Austen Variations under the pen name Jane Grix. I love the characters of Darcy and Elizabeth and like to create “what ifs” that give them new ways to fall in love.
But back to North and South. As a potential Date Night, it might turn into a marathon – it is 4 episodes and I dare anyone to wait a week between episodes. I saw the end of part one and it didn’t matter that I was busy the next morning and needed to get up early. I was hooked.
Sometimes men think women are silly for watching romances. I think romances are for women like sports are for men. It’s wish fulfillment or vicarious living. We identify with the heroine. A good romance teaches us or reminds us that love is possible. It gives us hope, and who doesn’t need a little more hope?
After I watched the miniseries, I read the book. I think I enjoyed it more because I could imagine the various actors playing the roles. One of the highlights of the miniseries is the absolute best onscreen kiss I’ve ever seen. Men should take note.
If you don’t have time to watch the entire miniseries, find the kiss somewhere on YouTube. You’ll thank me.
What is your favorite screen kiss?
Related blog posts :
Ten Things I love about BBC North and South
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