Movie Monday: Pride and Prejudice (1940)
Because I had never seen one of her films before, I always wondered what all the Greer Garson buzz was about. After seeing Pride and Prejudice I finally understood why she is considered a legend. I fell in love with the story of Pride and Prejudice all over again when viewing this film, and became an instant fan of Garson!
These photos are not mine.
Originally, MGM’s Irving Thalberg purchased the rights to this Jane Austin romance novel as a role for Thalberg’s wife at the time, Norma Shearer. After Thalberg passed away in 1936, the process was paused for a time. Not long after Thalberg’s passing Greer Garson was selected as the new leading lady of this production in replacement of Norma Shearer. This role would prove to be a pivotal moment in Garson’s career in Hollywood. She would later become the “Great Lady” of MGM, and a huge asset to their company.
These photos are not mine.
The leading man of Pride and Prejudice would also be switched up from the original plans. Norma Shearer’s co-star was setup to be Clark Gable, but after seeing Laurence Olivier in Wurthering Heights MGM decided the role in this film would be given to him. Olivier was not enthusiastic about the role in Pride and Prejudice, however. He was set on having Vivien Leigh, who he had just married that year, replace Greer Garson.
These photos are not mine.
Despite all of the conflicts that prolonged this project, Pride and Prejudice went on to become a massive success. This film’s set was so extensive and extravagant it won the Oscar for Production Design. There is no doubt that this film brings to life the wild and exciting story that comes flying off the pages in Jane Autstin’s novel. Greer Garson and Laurence Olivier perfectly capture the characters and make you feel every emotion that is emitted in this storyline. Just like the book, this movie remains a classic to this day.
Much Love,
Sarah
