Tom Hollander Reflects on His Iconic Role as Mr. Collins in *Pride and Prejudice*

Tom Hollander's portrayal of Mr. Collins in Joe Wright's 2005 adaptation of *Pride and Prejudice* has become a memorable interpretation of the character, known for his comical ineptitude and social awkwardness. Hollander's performance, characterized by a blend of humor and pathos, resonates with audiences even two decades later. He recalls the playful atmosphere on set, where Wright fostered a sense of camaraderie among the cast, which included Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen.

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Hollander describes the challenges of embodying a character perceived as "undateable." He humorously reflects on Wright's suggestion to give him a mullet, which he initially resisted but later embraced as part of the character's charm. The proposal scene, where Collins awkwardly presents a flower to Elizabeth Bennet, was particularly challenging for Hollander, who felt the weight of the moment's humiliation heightened by the presence of the Bennet sisters giggling behind the door.

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Hollander shares insights into his interactions with veteran actors like Donald Sutherland, who played Mr. Bennet. He recounts a moment where Sutherland playfully attempted to manipulate the scene's editing by requesting a glance from Hollander, showcasing the competitive spirit that can exist even among seasoned performers. This dynamic added depth to the filming experience, allowing Hollander to explore the nuances of his character further.

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Hollander offers a critical perspective on Mr. Collins's character, noting that the societal pressures of patriarchy affect men as well. He highlights the character's lack of a house as a metaphor for his inadequacies in the dating world, suggesting that Collins's obsequiousness is both a product of his social standing and a source of humor. This complexity adds layers to the character, making him more than just a comedic figure.

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Reflecting on the film's legacy, Hollander acknowledges that *Pride and Prejudice* has maintained its relevance across generations. He recalls a surprising encounter with actress Jennifer Lawrence, who recognized him for his iconic line about "exemplary boiled potatoes," illustrating the film's cultural impact. Hollander's experience underscores the film's ability to resonate with new audiences while remaining a cherished classic.

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• “I enjoyed being an arse-licking creep.” — Tom Hollander, Actor

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• “There’s a depressing analysis of his story, which is that men are judged by the size of their house, and he doesn’t have a house.” — Tom Hollander, Actor

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• “The feeling was that they had, in that bit of the plot, found that they were well matched and ought to be together.” — Tom Hollander, Actor

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• “I remember thinking, when the movie was first suggested as a prospect, Pride & Prejudice?” — Tom Hollander, Actor

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Hollander's reflections on his role as Mr. Collins reveal the complexities of character portrayal and the lasting impact of *Pride and Prejudice* on both audiences and actors alike.

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