My favorite movie at the moment is the 2005 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice directed by Joe Wright. I’ve only seen this movie for the first time more than a week ago (11 June 2010 to be exact) but have since watched it more than 15 times. Here is the first part of my list of top 10 favorite Mr. Darcy and Lizzie scenes in reverse order. Check out the second part here.

# 10 – Barely tolerable

This is the scene where Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy were talking to Mrs. Bennet, Jane and Lizzie in the ball. In passing, Lizzie mentioned that poetry had the power to drive away love, to which Mr. Darcy replied, “I thought that poetry was the food of love.” Lizzie replied that it may be the case if it’s a “fine stout love,” but not if it is merely a “vague inclination,” at which point a poor sonnet can be counted upon to kill it outright. Mr. Darcy replied, “So what do you recommend to encourage affection?” probably unconsciously planning to file the information for future reference, should he wish to encourage Lizzie’s affection. Lizzie quickly replied: “Dancing. Even if one’s partner is barely tolerable.” then stalked off. This must have suprised him since it shows that she heard his earlier comment that she was “barely tolerable,” and she had the guts to call him to it.

# 9 – No false modesty here

This is the scene where Lizzie is playing piano rather poorly, and Mr. Darcy walks towards the piano to watch her. Lizzie says, “You mean to frighten me, Mr. Darcy, by coming in all your state to hear me, but I won’t be alarmed even if your sister does play so well.” To which Mr. Darcy replied, “I am well enough acquainted with you, Miss Elizabeth, to know that I cannot alarm you, even should I wish it.” I love his look filled with subdued longing after their full exchange, as he gazes at Lizzie.

# 8 – May I have the next dance?

Charlotte and Lizzie are chatting cheerfully, when they are suddenly accosted by the always formal Mr. Darcy, who gravely asked, “Miss Elizabeth, may I have the next dance?” To which Lizzie replied in an equally formal tone, “You may.” Mr. Darcy gives a slight bow before walking off. If you didn’t know that he was already in love with her at that point, you would think he was the most difficult man to get along with.

# 7 – Electrified

Lizzie curtsies stiffly at Mr. Darcy, then bestows a friendly smile and curtsy to Mr. Bingley before she climbs the carriage on the way home. Unexpectedly, it is Mr. Darcy who helps her up, and after exchanging a fleeting look, we get a close up of Mr. Darcy’s hand, which looked as if it was electrified by the touch of Lizzie’s hand.

# 6 – A world of their own

The first time they danced (and their conversation) was so intense that it was as if they were on a world (or on a hallway) on their own. Of course, there are still such witty conversation such as Mr. Darcy asking Lizzie, “Do you talk, as a rule, while dancing?” and Lizzie replying, “No… No, I prefer to be unsociable and taciturn… Makes it all so much more enjoyable, don’t you think? ”