I recently watched the 2020 version of "Emma" starring Anya Taylor-Joy and I was pleasantly surprised. As a matter of fact, this "Emma" is my favorite version of the movie based on the book by Jane Austen. I have seen a few others in the past, but none quite hit the mark for me.
Anya Taylor-Joy is the perfect choice! She is exactly how I envision Emma and she did an outstanding job of bringing the character to life. I also liked the actor (Johnny Flynn) that played the part of George Knightley. As an added bonus, Emma's father was played by Bill Nighy who was superb. He made me laugh out loud several times with his obsession with drafts and his ability to seem almost clueless, yet very caring, at times.
All three of these actors deserve awards for excellence. Together, they made this movie exceptional and one I would highly recommend, especially if you are a Austen fan who has been previously disappointed by "Emma" film adaptations.
The costumes and scenery are additional elements that made this movie great. Alexandra Byrne also deserves an award for perhaps being the best Regency-era costume designer ever. Emma's wardrobe was totally fabulous.
Emma (2020)
Emma (2020) [DVD]Check PriceEmma Woodhouse is not immediately interested in romance and marriage for herself, but she does believe she is the perfect matchmaker due to her recent "success" of introducing her former governess to a local widower, which resulted in marriage. This self-appointed "occupation" puts her in some rather delicate situations since others misunderstand her actions and intentions.
The movie begins on her former governess's wedding day and we quickly meet most of the main characters. Her neighbor and friend, Mr. Knightley, did not attend the wedding, but he does come by their home afterwards to ascertain if all went well.
Emma befriends Harriet Smith, an orphan at the local boarding school. She is determined to help Harriet by instructing her in proper manners so she can attract a husband of a higher station. Harriet is already infatuated with one of Mr. Knightley's tenet farmers, Mr. Martin, but he is not suitable for Harriet in Emma's opinion.
Due to her meddling, several relationships are strained, feelings are hurt, and decisions with consequences are made, but you can't help liking Emma. Thanks to the comic relief throughout the movie, what might normally cause stress has little effect on the viewers overall mood.
While her heart to help might be admirable, Emma's actual actions show how
young, arrogant, and naive she really is. Fortunately for her, she is surrounded
by people who love her and are willing to forgive.
Emma. (2020) Amazon PrimeCheck PriceEmma (2020) [Blu-ray]Check Price
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Emma (2020) Movie Review Written by:
With a great cast and a timeless story, this 2020 version of Emma sounds terrific. Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for recommending Emma 2020.
ReplyDeleteI did really enjoy it! So much so, I think I will watch it again right now :)
DeleteSounds like a really good movie for the whole family to enjoy. I will have to have a look at this one as I do love period pieces that are enjoyable to watch. You have made this sound like it would fit that bill well. Thanks for this recommendation!
ReplyDeleteI hope you love it too Olivia! Please come back and let me know if you enjoy it.
DeleteI'm a huge Jane Austen fan and have seen other movie adaptations of Emma. This one is now on my Amazon Prime watchlist, thanks to you!
ReplyDeleteI can hardly wait to see what you think of it, Margaret! Since you are familiar with the others, I'll be very interested to see if you agree that this adaptation is heads above all others.
DeleteI love Jane Austen, the books, the films, everything! So I am sure I would like this film adaptation of Emma. Thank you for your review and recommendation.
ReplyDeleteI'm a big Jane Austen fan too, Raintree Annie. I didn't truly expect to enjoy this movie when I turned it on since I haven't really cared for the other "Emma" movies. Turns out, I loved this movie. I hope you do too!
DeleteThis sounds delightful. I'm looking forward to watching it. Thanks for the recommend.
ReplyDeleteI hope you enjoy the movie Mary Beth! Be sure and let me know what you think.
DeleteThis sounds like the type of movie I'm in the mood for this weekend. I think I'm going to have to carve out some down time and just watch a movie. By the way... I am reading a book that you previously reviewed "The Enemy and Miss Innes" and I just love it.
ReplyDeleteI am thrilled to know you love "The Enemy and Miss Innes" Dawn! I thought it was a great book and as a side note, I want to adopt Malcolm's dog. I hope you enjoy the movie, "Emma" as much as you are enjoying "The Enemy and Miss Innes".
DeleteI know I'll enjoy this movie. Period pieces normally focus on the characters, and this movie sounds like they got it right. The fact that there's some comic relief makes this one especially appealing. Added to my watch list. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteThe comic relief in this movie really does make a big difference! I all need a little laugh in our days.
DeleteThanks for the review! I don't think I have seen any versions of Emma ?!! - I will start with this one
ReplyDeleteIt is a good place to start! If you ever decide to watch the others, I do believe you will see a difference.
DeleteWell, I've never seen this movie, I also like Period pieces simply because I love the history in them. Thanks for the recommendation.
ReplyDelete