Genre: RomanceRelease Date: 1996
One Word Review: Charming
Kathy’s Review: I guess watching Pride and Prejudice last night got me craving more Austen, so I decided to watch Emma tonight for another entry in the Everything Austen Challenge. I’ve always had a soft spot for Emma and her matchmaking ways. She is a bit snobbish, but she really does have good intentions. Although I’m not usually a fan of Gwyneth Paltrow, I really like her as Emma. I thought she did a great job portraying her character and looked so pretty throughout the movie. I loved her dresses and her hair was always done so pretty (probably minor details, but I loved it). I also thought Jeremy Northam (Mr. Knightly) did a fantastic job. I couldn’t help thinking that Mr. Knightly gets overshadowed by Mr. Darcy, which is unfortunate because I really adore Mr. Knightly. I love that he and Emma are friends first. He helps to make her a better person and loves her despite her meddling ways. The supporting characters are well cast also. I loved Harriet Smith, Miss Bates (she was great), and of course Mr. Churchill (I forgot he was played by Ewan McGregor!).
I really enjoyed this version of the story. It was missing something that the Pride and Prejudice movie has, not sure what exactly (maybe the amazing scenery?), but it’s still a favorite of mine.
I adore Jeremy Northam as Mr. Knightly - I like his character a lot too. I actually prefer the A & E version with Kate Beckinsale more than this one. Although I do agree the dresses were beautiful. The main reason I don't like this one is because of the actress who plays Harriet Smith - Toni Collette - can't stand her. Actually aside from Jeremy Northam I like the entire cast better on the A & E version. Have you read this book. It took me a long time to get through it because I kept giving up partway through at the same spot. Finally I decided to just skip the part I hated and move on. I was so glad that I did - it gives better insight into the relationship of Charlotte Lucas and Emma. I read a review of this book once that said they thought it was in desperate need of editing. I think they are right. There is plenty of things that need to just be cut.
ReplyDeleteCute movie! I haven't seen it in a while but I remember liking it well enough.
ReplyDeleteI've never seen the A&E version, I'll have to check if my library has it!
ReplyDeleteDid I actually write Charlotte Lucas - can't believe I did that. Of course I meant Jane Fairfax - how embarrassing.
ReplyDeleteMary-lol, no worries! Jane Fairfax does make more sense though. =)
ReplyDeleteThis is one of my favorite movies. There's an audio book version of Emma on iTunes that is narrarated by Jeremy Northam... it's on my list to download! LOVE him as Mr. Knightley.
ReplyDelete