A contemporary adaptation of the Jane Austen classic. Working two jobs to support her family, but dreaming of something more, Lizzie Bennet clashes with arrogant doctor Jacob Darcy. Can the pair overcome their pride and prejudice?

Co-written by Hannah Lee & Neville Pierce, who is producing alongside Jackie Sheppard of Footprint Films, this modern take on the evergreen story is set in Hartcliffe, on the edge of Bristol, and is being directed by Paul Holbrook, the Brit List filmmaker behind such acclaimed shorts as Boys Like You and Hollow.

The film is currently casting and financing.

Director's Statement Paul Holbrook

I've always been a sucker for a good romance movie and I'm excited to be involved in a project that marries my love for the genre with my passion for telling unique and colourful stories in working-class arenas.

When I read the script I was immediately drawn in by the focus on exploring the complexities of human emotions alongside the pressures of cultural differences, without ever getting too heavy handed.

The script never relies purely on the concept of romance to sell its story, nor does it allow itself to drift into Cheese Town, like so many do. Instead, the narrative and tone are driven by its exploration of character and culture. This is what first attracted me to the project.

The film's setting is also integral to the story and I'm keen to do justice to it on the big screen. We want to showcase a world that is both familiar and exotic, a place where different cultures can intersect and interact. We have worked hard to make Bristol feel like a character in its own right... well, two characters actually: 'Brochure Bristol', where Jacob exists, and Hartcliffe, the rural council housing estate where Lizzie lives (and where I'm from). This element of the creative process is something l'm particularly passionate about:

I know that the authenticity of the film's setting will further enrich the story, the characters' experiences and the comedy and heart we're able to deliver. I can't wait to get started."