Brit Interviews Head of Instagram, Adam Mosseri

The Battle of the Darcy's: Matthew Macfadyen VS. Colin Firth

In this week's episode of Yap City, we're talking all things Pride & Prejudice, Mr. Darcy, and historical romance. The 2005 adaptation starring Keira Knightley as Lizzy Bennet and Matthew Macfadyen as Mr. Darcy (which turns 20 on November 11) is returning to select theaters April 20.

"I've grown to love the 2005 version with Keira Knightley more just because it makes me feel so deeply and I just always feel so many butterflies in my stomach by the end," I say in the latest episode. "I feel like it's more a more emotional depiction of the story."

"I'm definitely team 2005," Kayla agrees. "I just think the cast of 2005 is better in my opinion, and it does a good job of being like ethereal and just fully immersing you into what I imagine Jane Austen's world was or what she wanted it to be when she was writing."

Both the 2005 and the 1995 Pride & Prejudice give us some seriously swoon-worthy moments from Mr. Darcy like Colin Firth diving into a lake or Matthew Macfadyen walking through the fog. "Every single time, no matter how many times I watch it, I always think the camera is going to pan or it's gonna cut to Elizabeth," I say. "Something about it just makes me feel at peace."

But there's nothing as immortal as Mr. Darcy's hand flex.

What does Mr. Darcy's hand flex mean?

One of the most enduring moments from the movie (if not in 21st century cinema) is when Mr. Darcy helps Elizabeth into a carriage, and then flexes his hand as he walks back into the house. But what does the hand flex mean?

"He was so affected by touching her hand, because men and women didn't really touch unless it was moments like you were helping them into the carriage or escorting them somewhere," Kayla points out. But that's not the only reason she loves Matthew's version of Mr. Darcy over Colin Firth's.

"I just think he fully captured [the] gentleness that he had towards her while also maintaining that straightforward bluntness that kind of has you wonder if he's rude or if that's just how he is," she continues.

"Matthew has really grown on me because I feel like he has a sweetness that some of the other adaptations didn't give me as a viewer or I didn't pick up on them in the same way," I agree. "When you reach the end of the 2005 Pride & Prejudice, and even when you rewatch, you can identify that he really is just uncomfortable and anxious instead of just straight mean."

Where can I watch Pride & Prejudice 2005?

Pride & Prejudice is re-releasing in theaters for a limited time starting April 20, 2025. You can also stream it on Netflix right now.

Who's in the Pride & Prejudice cast?

The Pride & Prejudice cast makes this one of the best movies of the 2000s. Here's who you'll see in the movie:

• Keira Knightley as Elizabeth "Lizzy" Bennet: an intelligent, headstrong woman determined to marry for love.
• Matthew Macfadyen as Mr. Darcy: the new wealthy bachelor in town who appears to have a chip on his shoulder.
• Rosamund Pike as Jane Bennet: Lizzy's romantic and gentle older sister who falls for Mr. Bingley.
• Simon Woods as Charles Bingley: Mr. Darcy's friendly and kind best friend who falls for Jane.
• Rupert Friend as George Wickham: a mysterious figure from Darcy's past who turns Lizzy's head.
• Brenda Blethyn as Mrs. Bennet: Lizzy's dramatic mother who wants to see all five of her daughters married.
• Donald Sutherland as Mr. Bennet: Lizzy's quiet father who loves to sit and read in his study.
• Jena Malone as Lydia Bennet: Lizzy's youngest sister whose behavior borders on scandalous.
• Carey Mulligan as Catherine "Kitty" Bennet: Lizzy's second-youngest sister who feels overshadowed by Lydia.
• Talulah Riley as Mary Bennet: The studious middle Bennet sister who plays the piano.
• Tom Hollander as Mr. Collins: a Bennet cousin who's next in line to inherit their home.
• Judi Dench as Lady Catherine de Bourgh: Mr. Darcy's wealthy and esteemed aunt.
• Kelly Reilly as Caroline Bingley: Mr. Bingley's sister.
• Tamzin Merchant as Georgiana Darcy: Mr. Darcy's younger sister.
• Claudie Blakley as Charlotte Lucas: Lizzy's best friend.
• Cornelius Booth as Colonel Fitzwilliam: Mr. Darcy's cousin.
• Penelope Wilton as Mrs. Gardiner: Lizzy's aunt.
• Peter Wight as Mr. Gardiner: Lizzy's uncle.

1. Choose your battles ahead of time.

You're not going to change everyone's opinion about all of the things over the course of a meal and a football game. You might want to show up ready for a duel of words with your Facebook-meme-king cousin, but that's just going to put your opinionated family member on the offensive from the moment you walk in. Decide ahead of time if there's one issue that you really cannot keep your mouth shut about if it comes up, and have two or three talking points ready that clarify your position on that topic. If your hot button does get pushed, your talking points will help you keep from making things personal.

2. Confer with the host.

If you feel comfortable with the person that's organizing or hosting Thanksgiving, speak to him or her in advance about how you can be on Team Keep the Peace. Most people aren't keen on a political brouhaha breaking out around their dinner table, so they'll probably be relieved to hear that you're on board and willing to help make the day go smoothly for everyone. Brainstorm some ideas about seating arrangements or wholesome activities to fill the idle family time that can lead to trading barbs.

3. Make it a game.

Caitlin Bergstein, a Boston-based matchmaker and relationship expert for Three Day Rule, suggests a fun twist on the swear jar concept. “If your family is up for the challenge, you can even make it a game. Each time someone mentions something political, they have to put a dollar in a jar (or take a drink, depending on how your family celebrates the holiday). At the end of the night, that cash can be put aside for the next family get together!"

4. Have a moment of silence.

Sometimes the idea of a quiet table can be intimidating (all those chewing noises!), but encouraging a moment of reflection among your holiday guests can actually be transformative. Whether you observe several seconds of silence in honor of relatives you've lost, as a way to silently acknowledge your individual blessings, or as an act of prayer or meditation, you've hopefully brought the room back to focus on each other's company and the gift that it is to be together.

5. Be an active listener.

If your one doggedlypersistent aunt can't let go of her obsession with the latest political scandal, reconsider what she's actually trying to tell you. Chances are, it's not just about what she saw on the news. “Assume that your polarizing relative actually probably just wants to connect, feel respected, and reduce their own anxiety about holiday gatherings, and interpret even difficult behavior as such," advises Mary Fisher, a Salt Lake City psychotherapist who specializes in family relationships. “Express the desire to connect while redirecting the conversation," Fisher recommends. Emphasize the fact that you're interested in protecting the time your family spends together. That can help soften the blow when you ask to instead hear them share a family memory or talk about a hobby you both share.

6. Disengage.

Remember that if angry words or offensive language start flying at you across the sweet potato pie, you don't have to respond. Have a script in mind to use, something like, “While I hear where you're coming from, I don't share your opinion, and I'm done talking about it today." Convey the message that you're quite clear on the matter being discussed, and you're not going to take the bait. You may have to repeat yourself several times, or you may choose to remain silent until things cool down around you. Either one is okay.

7. Duck out early.

If you feel like you have to retreat from the situation entirely, do it. One of the best things about being an adult is leaving when you want to leave. You don't have to subject yourself, your spouse, or your family to any kind of dialogue that is insulting, bigoted, or aggressive. Fisher shares these words of advice: “While we might think that the holidays are the time to resolve differences, they are actually the time to affirm and nurture connection, which can be an uphill battle with politically polarizing relatives." If you don't feel like a connection is being nurtured and the environment is not good for you to be in, say goodbye and make a break for it.

1. Airspun Loose Powder

I remember this loose powder being one of the very first makeup products I ever tried after seeing it in my mom's makeup kit. It's super nostalgic for many other beauty fans – and no wonder, because it first launched in 1935!

Formulated to have a "cloudlike softness" to it, this powder is ideal for setting foundation and concealer so your base stays in place.

“I used Coty Airspun loose powder for years," one Redditor wrote about it. "I don't use powder anymore, but I still take a fond look at it in the makeup aisle. The packaging is so retro and pretty. It always made me feel very 1950's movie star.”

I will say that the main disconnect between this "old school" makeup product and today's beauty trends is that more and more brands tend to lean toward dewy, natural finishes rather than fully matte ones – this powder definitely delivers on the latter.

2. L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara

This mascara launched in 1990 and it was quick to become a favorite amongst beauty fans looking for long, full lashes. Claiming to give lashes the appearance of 5 times their natural thickness, this formula goes on super easy, thanks to the streamlined wand design.

This mascara has proved itself a mainstay in many makeup bags, and since its launch, L'Oreal's launched several different colors to play with. I myself am especially fond of the blue and purple mascaras if I just want to get a little playful with my makeup!

"I have tried other mascaras in the past but I find this one is the best for me. I have been using it for years," one reviewer wrote on Amazon. "I now find it difficult to to buy at the drug stores so I order it through Amazon. It goes on easily, dries quickly and does not flake. I wear the burgundy because I have green eyes."

3. Clinique Black Honey Almost Lipstick

You probably recognized this one super quick. Clinique's Almost Lipstick in the shade Black Honey is renowned since it's said to be universally flattering and totally nails the natural look! Though it first hit the market in 1989, it's had an undeniable resurgence in the past couple years, further proving its iconic status.

“My grandmother took me to a Clinique counter when I was 13 and bought me a lipstick and some eyeshadow. I used them until they were gone," one Redditor reminisced. "The only Clinique item I've used since then is Black Honey, which is in my bathroom today.”

4. Benetint Liquid Lip & Cheek Stain

This beloved Benefit product hit shelves back in 1976, though it wasn't originally intended for use on the lips and cheeks. 👀 Benefit revealed that it was actually formulated for exotic dancers to use on their nipples to make them stand out!

Since its introduction, it's been a great pick to reach for to add a natural flush to the cheeks and make the lips a bit bolder. Benefit's launched several different shades over the years to join the OG "rose" one.

5. Max Factor Panstik Foundation

This "old school" makeup product was one of the first foundations that came in a convenient stick form. It launched in 1947, but you can still find it today! This creamy product is noticeably full-coverage and leaves a silky-matte finish once it's applied. A little truly goes a long way.

“I grew up in the 90s and remember using the Max Factor Panstik makeup. I can still remember the scent," one Redditor wrote. "It was a really great product for its time and I used it like a concealer.”

“I have this! What I like about it is it’s quick to apply when I don’t have the energy for liquid concealers," another Reddit user said. "The colour range isn’t impressive though.”

6. Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick

Hitting the market back in 1957, it didn't take long for the Lustrous Lipstick from Revlon to become a cult classic. Many shades that the company developed in the latter half of the 20th century are still around today – several makeup fans on Reddit mentioned shades like Cherries In The Snow, Toast Of New York, Wine With Everything, Fire And Ice, and Sandalwood Beige are still their absolute favorites!

"Fire And Ice is one of my favourite lipsticks. It’s a wonderful bright corally red/pink..." one Redditor said. "It dates from the 50s. It’s quite nice to think I’m wearing the same colour as girls who were listening to Elvis.”

7. C.O. Bigelow Rose Salve

This might just be the most old school of all the "old school" makeup products mentioned here. This rosy skin salve was introduced way back in 1838 to heal dry, cracked skin in need of hydration – lips, face, hands, and body included. It's crafted the same way it was back in the 1800's, with rose extract to calm irritation, and lanolin, cotton seed, and jojoba oil to moisturize. The company also sells lavender, mint, and vanilla varieties in addition to the OG rose.

"I've been using C.O. Bigelow lavender salve for years and still love it. I rub it into my cuticles in the winter, spread the excess around my hands and top it with a layer of hand cream to seal it in," one Amazon reviewer wrote. "It works great to keep my skin from drying out and cracking and the lavender scent smells natural and not fake."

"Love this product! Worth every penny," another Amazon user said. "Use it on my lips, face and hands. Softens and is non greasy. My all time favorite product in my beauty stash!"