Emma
Reviewed by Sarah List
In Cinemas now!
Emma comes to the screen with a fresh adaption of Jane Austen’s beloved character. Previously played on the big screen by Gwyneth Paltrow and also in a more modern take by Alicia Silverstone (as Cher) in Clueless, the 2020 edition sees a return to the classic depiction of the English Georgian countryside. A young yet big (wealthy) fish in a small town pond, Emma Woodhouse ( Anya Taylor Joy) has had the easiest of lives due to being blessed by birth into a wealthy family. As she is certain to be independently wealthy, she has no intention of marrying but instead finds pleasure in arranging (ie meddling) in the love lives of others. Whilst always believing she is helping, Emma sees herself as the guiding light of much less privileged Harriet (Mia Goth), whose life she obliviously derails through poor advice, much to the chagrin of her mature and handsome neighbor Mr Knightley (Johnny Flynn).
This is a sumptuous production, with confection captured well in costume, staging and utterly ridiculous patisserie creations (never touched of course). The supporting cast adds genuine warmth and depth to the production, headed by Bill Nighy as Mr Woodhouse who is perpetually seeking the source of draughts in his lavish house, and is gradually cocooned entirely by paneled dividers In an ongoing attempt to thwart the chill. Miranda Hart (Miss Bates) is wonderfully offbeat, and the servants that deal with the petty quirks of the wealthy households add unexpected amusement throughout. The matching of the lead actors has also been done well, as the gradual warmth that builds between Emma and Mr Knightley feels genuine and sweet. Really nice to see with so many films recently with contrived friendships/relationships dominating the early year releases.
Time to update your Jane Austen from Clueless
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