Pride and Prejudice and Zombies is a captivating novel that combines the beloved classic by Jane Austen with a thrilling twist of the undead. In this article, we will delve into the plot, characters, and memorable quotes from both the book and the movie adaptation. We will also explore interesting facts about the film’s locations and discuss tips for cosplay, as well as delve into the musical contribution of Fernando Velázquez.
Furthermore, we will take a closer look at the authors behind this unique work and provide recommendations for similar movies and novels. Join me as we unmask the world of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies.
Book Summary: The Plot and Characters
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies is set in an alternate version of 19th century England, where a mysterious plague has unleashed the undead upon society. The Bennet sisters, led by the fierce and independent Elizabeth Bennet, have been trained in the art of combat to defend themselves against the zombie horde.
Amidst this chaos, the story follows the familiar plot of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, with the added element of deadly battles against the undead. The novel beautifully captures the essence of Austen’s characters, while injecting a thrilling and action-packed narrative.
The book introduces us to a diverse cast of characters, including the strong-willed Elizabeth Bennet, the brooding and enigmatic Mr. Darcy, and the charismatic zombie slayer Colonel Fitzwilliam. Each character is skillfully developed, with their own unique quirks and motivations.
Elizabeth’s journey of self-discovery and her evolving relationship with Mr. Darcy take center stage, as they navigate the challenges of societal expectations and the relentless zombie threat. The book seamlessly blends the romance and wit of Austen’s original work with the excitement and danger of a zombie apocalypse.
Movie Summary: When and Where it Takes Place
The movie adaptation of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies was released in 2016, bringing the beloved characters and thrilling action to the silver screen. Set in the same alternate version of 19th century England, the film showcases the struggles of the Bennet sisters as they balance their duty to society and their duty to protect against the zombie menace.
Directed by Burr Steers, the movie brings the vivid world of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies to life, captivating audiences with its unique blend of romance, humor, and gore.
Exploring the Film Locations
The film was primarily shot in various locations in England, including historic estates and picturesque landscapes that perfectly capture the essence of Austen’s world. One of the notable locations is Hatfield House, a stunning Jacobean mansion that serves as the backdrop for the Bennet family’s estate.
Other locations include Hertfordshire and Berkshire, which provide the idyllic countryside settings for the Bennet sisters’ adventures. Exploring these film locations allows fans to immerse themselves in the world of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, experiencing the beauty and grandeur of the settings firsthand.
Meet the Characters: Who’s Who in Pride and Prejudice and Zombies
In Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, the characters we know and love from Jane Austen’s original novel take on new roles as skilled zombie slayers. Elizabeth Bennet, played by Lily James in the movie adaptation, is a strong, independent woman who is not afraid to face the undead. Mr. Darcy, portrayed by Sam Riley, is a brooding and mysterious figure, who becomes entangled in a complex relationship with Elizabeth.
Other notable characters include the Bennett sisters – Jane, Mary, Kitty, and Lydia – each with their own unique personalities and fighting skills. The movie brings these characters to life, showcasing their strength, wit, and determination in the face of the zombie apocalypse.
Memorable Quotes from the Book and Movie
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies is filled with memorable quotes that blend the elegance of Austen’s prose with the intensity of the zombie-infested world. Here are a few noteworthy quotes:
- “It is a truth universally acknowledged that a zombie in possession of brains must be in want of more brains.”
- “I could easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified mine.”
- “The business of her life was to get her daughters married; its solace was visiting and news.”
- “I dearly love a laugh.”
- “You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you… even in this state of utter chaos.”
These quotes showcase the unique blend of romance, humor, and horror that makes Pride and Prejudice and Zombies such a captivating read and watch.
The Soundtrack: Fernando Velázquez’s Musical Contribution
Fernando Velázquez’s musical score for Pride and Prejudice and Zombies adds an atmospheric and haunting dimension to the story. Velázquez masterfully combines classical elements with eerie undertones, creating a soundtrack that perfectly complements the blend of romance and horror in the film.
From sweeping orchestral pieces to tense, suspenseful tracks, the music enhances the emotional impact of each scene. Velázquez’s contribution to the movie adds depth and richness to the overall experience, making it a memorable and immersive journey for the audience.
Curiosities about Pride and Prejudice and Zombies
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies is a work that sparks curiosity and intrigue. One interesting fact is that the original idea for the novel came from a quirky literary mash-up trend that emerged in the early 2000s. Seth Grahame-Smith, the author of the novel, brilliantly combined Austen’s beloved characters with the undead, creating a unique and unexpected tale.
The novel was met with both critical acclaim and commercial success, leading to the movie adaptation. Another curiosity is the intricate choreography involved in the film’s fight scenes. The cast underwent intense training to execute the elaborate combat sequences, resulting in thrilling and visually stunning action sequences. These curiosities add to the allure of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, making it a fascinating work to explore.
Tips for Cosplay: Dressing like Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy
If you are a fan of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies and want to bring the characters to life through cosplay, here are some tips to help you dress like Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. For Elizabeth Bennet’s attire, opt for a Regency-era gown with a twist – add elements of leather, armor, and weaponry to showcase her zombie-slaying skills.
Complete the look with a stylish yet practical hairstyle, and don’t forget to embody Elizabeth’s fierce and confident personality. As for Mr. Darcy, choose a tailored suit with a dark color palette, accented with subtle hints of zombie-fighting accessories. Carry yourself with an air of mystery and aloofness, capturing the enigmatic nature of the character.
These cosplay tips will ensure that you stand out at conventions and events, showcasing your love for Pride and Prejudice and Zombies in style.
Seth Grahame-Smith: A Brief Biography and His Top 5 Works
Seth Grahame-Smith, the author of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, is a talented writer known for his unique blend of classic literature and horror elements.
Born in 1976, Grahame-Smith began his career as a television writer before venturing into the world of novels. In addition to Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, here are five of his other notable works:
- Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter – Grahame-Smith reimagines the life of the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, as a secret vampire hunter.
- Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters – Continuing his literary mash-up trend, Grahame-Smith infuses Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility with sea monsters and adventure.
- The Last American Vampire – This gripping novel follows the life of Henry Sturges, a vampire who has lived through key moments in American history.
- Unholy Night – Grahame-Smith takes on the story of the Three Wise Men, turning them into unlikely heroes in a battle against the forces of darkness.
- The Spider-Man Handbook: The Ultimate Training Manual – Grahame-Smith explores the world of superheroes with this tongue-in-cheek guide to becoming Spider-Man.
These works showcase Grahame-Smith’s talent for blending genres and reimagining classic stories in unexpected and thrilling ways.
Other Works by Burr Steers: A List and Description
Burr Steers, the director of the Pride and Prejudice and Zombies movie, is no stranger to the world of filmmaking. In addition to this adaptation, Steers has directed and written several other notable films. Here are five of his other works:
- Igby Goes Down (2002) – This dark comedy-drama follows the rebellious Igby Slocumb as he navigates his dysfunctional family and searches for meaning in life.
- 17 Again (2009) – Starring Zac Efron, this comedy-drama tells the story of a middle-aged man who magically transforms back into his 17-year-old self and gets a chance to relive his youth.
- Charlie St. Cloud (2010) – Based on the novel by Ben Sherwood, this romantic drama explores the supernatural bond between two brothers and the power of love and letting go.
- The Edge of Seventeen (2016) – A coming-of-age comedy-drama, this film follows Nadine, a socially awkward teenager, as she navigates the challenges of high school, friendship, and family.
- Mainstream (2020) – Steers’ latest film is a satirical drama that explores the dark side of internet fame and the consequences of chasing popularity and success.
Steers’ diverse filmography showcases his ability to tackle different genres and tell compelling stories with depth and nuance.
Similar Movies to Pride and Prejudice and Zombies: A Top 10 List
If you enjoyed the unique blend of romance, action, and horror in Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, here are ten similar movies that you might find captivating:
- Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter (2012) – Seth Grahame-Smith’s other literary mash-up brought to life on the big screen.
- Warm Bodies (2013) – A romantic comedy with a twist, this film follows the budding relationship between a zombie and a human.
- Shaun of the Dead (2004) – A hilarious zombie comedy that combines humor with plenty of gore.
- Sense and Sensibility (1995) – A faithful adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel, without the undead, but still filled with romance and drama.
- Zombieland (2009) – A post-apocalyptic comedy that follows a group of survivors as they navigate a world overrun by zombies.
- Pride and Prejudice (2005) – The traditional adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel, perfect for those who prefer the original story without the zombie twist.
- Fido (2006) – A quirky comedy set in a 1950s suburban world where zombies are domesticated and used as servants.
- Warm Bodies (2013) – A romantic comedy with a twist, this film follows the budding relationship between a zombie and a human.
- A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (2014) – A stylish and atmospheric vampire film that explores themes of love and loneliness.
- World War Z (2013) – A thrilling zombie apocalypse film that follows a former United Nations investigator as he strives to find a cure for the pandemic.
These movies offer a variety of genres, from comedy to romance to horror, and will certainly satisfy your craving for more undead adventures.
More Works by Seth Grahame-Smith: A List and Description
If you’re hungry for more of Seth Grahame-Smith’s unique literary mash-ups and horror-infused tales, here are five more works by the talented author:
- The Last American Vampire (2015) – A thrilling sequel to Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter, this novel delves deeper into the world of vampires and historical events.
- Unholy Night (2012) – Grahame-Smith reimagines the story of the Three Wise Men, infusing it with action, adventure, and supernatural elements.
- Pride and Prejudice and Zombies: Dawn of the Dreadfuls (2010) – A prequel to Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, this novel explores the origins of the Bennett sisters’ zombie-slaying skills.
- The President’s Vampire (2011) – In this gripping novel, Grahame-Smith introduces us to Andrew Johnson, a vampire who serves as a secret weapon for the President of the United States.
- The Big Book of Porn (2003) – This humorous and satirical book takes a tongue-in-cheek look at the history of pornography, from ancient times to the modern era.
These works showcase Grahame-Smith’s versatility as a writer, offering a range of genres and unique perspectives on familiar stories and historical events.
Book Club Discussion Questions for Pride and Prejudice and Zombies
If you’re part of a book club or simply want to delve deeper into the themes and characters of “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies,” here are some discussion questions to spark engaging conversations:
- How does the introduction of zombies change the dynamics and social hierarchy of the Regency era society depicted in the original “Pride and Prejudice”?
- In what ways does Elizabeth Bennet’s character evolve in this adaptation? How does her skill in martial arts influence her relationships and decisions?
- The Bennett sisters are renowned for their abilities in combat. How does this affect their interactions with other characters, especially potential suitors?
- How does the inclusion of zombies in the story enhance or detract from the original themes of love, marriage, and societal expectations?
- Burr Steers directed the film adaptation of the novel. How well do you think he captured the essence of the book? Discuss any differences or similarities between the two mediums.
- Fernando Velázquez composed the soundtrack for the film. How does the music contribute to the atmosphere and overall experience of watching “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies”?
- The novel features several memorable quotes. Share your favorite lines and discuss their significance within the story.
- Cosplay and dressing up as characters from “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies” has become increasingly popular. Do you have any tips or recommendations for those interested in portraying Elizabeth Bennet or Mr. Darcy?
- Seth Grahame-Smith is praised for his ability to seamlessly blend different genres. How successful do you think he was in merging the worlds of Jane Austen and the undead?
- Overall, what are your thoughts on “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies”? Did you enjoy the combination of classic literature and horror elements? Why or why not?
Similar Novels with Plots Similar to Pride and Prejudice and Zombies: A Top 10 List
If you’re captivated by the unique blend of romance and horror found in “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies,” you’ll likely enjoy these ten novels that share similar themes and plots:
- “Jane Slayre” by Sherri Browning Erwin – This book combines Charlotte Brontí«’s “Jane Eyre” with vampire hunting, creating a thrilling Gothic tale.
- “Little Women and Werewolves” by Louisa May Alcott – Louisa May Alcott’s beloved classic is reimagined with the addition of werewolves, turning the March sisters’ lives upside down.
- “Android Karenina” by Ben H. Winters – A steampunk adaptation of Leo Tolstoy’s “Anna Karenina” that introduces androids and advanced technology into the Russian aristocracy.
- “Queen Victoria: Demon Hunter” by A.E. Moorat – This novel presents Queen Victoria as a secret demon hunter, battling supernatural creatures that threaten the British Empire.
- “Wuthering Bites” by Sarah Gray – Emily Brontí«’s haunting tale of love and revenge is given a vampiric twist in this gothic adaptation.
- “Androids and Alchemy” by Ishabelle Torry – An enchanting blend of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” and Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” featuring androids and alchemical experiments.
- “Alice in Zombieland” by Gena Showalter – Lewis Carroll’s timeless classic is reimagined with an undead twist, as Alice battles zombies in a nightmarish Wonderland.
- “The War of the Worlds Plus Blood, Guts and Zombies” by H.G. Wells and Eric S. Brown – H.G. Wells’ classic science fiction novel is infused with zombie horror, creating a thrilling and chilling tale of survival.
- “The Picture of Dorian Gray: An Immortal Edition” by Oscar Wilde and Nicholas Frankel – This edition of Oscar Wilde’s masterpiece includes additional scenes where Dorian Gray confronts supernatural threats.
- “Frankenstein in Baghdad” by Ahmed Saadawi – A modern retelling of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” set in war-torn Baghdad, where a man stitches together body parts to create a new being.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies
“Pride and Prejudice and Zombies” has left an indelible mark on both literature and popular culture. Seth Grahame-Smith’s unique adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic has spawned a film and inspired countless readers to explore other works that blend different genres.
Whether it’s the thrilling combination of romance and horror, the thought-provoking discussion questions, or the discovery of similar novels, the legacy of “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies” continues to captivate audiences.
So grab a copy of the book, gather your friends for a lively discussion, and embrace the undead in this unforgettable tale.
