The iconic hand flex scene between Keira Knightley’s Elizabeth Bennet and Matthew Macfadyen’s Mr. Darcy in the 2005 adaptation of Pride & Prejudice almost didn’t make it to the big screen. Director Joe Wright revealed that the pivotal moment was not scripted, but rather an idea conceived by actor Macfadyen.
The scene appears when Macfadyen’s Mr. Darcy reaches out his hand to aid Knightley’s Elizabeth Bennet into a carriage, and once their hands disconnect, he stretches out his hand again. Wright explained that this moment conveys the intelligence of their physical bodies over their minds, as they are drawn to each other despite conscious resistance.
The scene has become an enduring favorite among romance fans, with many claiming it’s the ultimate show of romance. Wright initially felt that the scene didn’t adequately portray the relationship between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy but is now gratified by its continued popularity. The hand flex scene has been parodied in various media, including TikTok and TV shows like The Summer I Turned Pretty.
Knightley received an Oscar nomination for her performance, while Macfadyen reflected on the movie’s staying power, saying “Pride & Prejudice has had legs.” Despite being over 20 years after its release, he still gets recognized as Mr. Darcy, a testament to the film’s enduring impact.
Source: https://people.com/joe-wright-shares-infamous-pride-and-prejudice-hand-flex-scene-wasn-t-scripted-exclusive-11715833