The Making of Pride and Prejudice (BBC)

A compellingly detailed, behind-the-scenes look at how Jane Austen's classic novel was transformed into the stunning television drama starring Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle.

Filmed on location in Wiltshire and Derbyshire with lush sets and a distinguished cast, Pride and Prejudice was scripted by award-winning dramatist Andrew Davies, who also adapted Middlemarch for BBC TV. Chronicling eighteen months of work—from the original concept to the first broadcast—The Making of Pride and Prejudice brings vividly to life the challenges and triumphs involved in every state of production of this sumptuous television series.

• Follow a typical day's filming, including the wholesale transformation of Lacock village into the minutely detailed setting of Jane Austen's Meryton.
• Discover how Colin Firth approached the part of Darcy, how actors' costumes and wigs were designed, how authentic dances were rehearsed and how Carl Davis recreated the period music and composed an original score.
• Piece together the roles of many behind-the-scenes contributors to the series, from casting directors and researchers to experts in period cookery and gardening.

With full-color photographs, interviews, and lavish illustrations, The Making of Pride and Prejudice is an indispensable companion to the beautifully produced series and a fascinating insight into all aspects of a major television enterprise.

Sue Birtwistle is the former director of the Royal Lyceum Theatre in Education Company in Edinburgh and founding director of the Nottingham Playhouse Roundabout Company. Susie Conklin is currently a drama script associate at Granada Television.