I cannot think of a better film than ‘Emma’ to greet the impending spring. There have been other adaptations of Jane Austen’s classic including the modern take ‘Clueless.’ Director Autumn de Wilde’s latest version is a vibrant and delightful update. It has everything you want in a romantic comedy – gorgeous costumes, stunning cinematography and terrific acting. This is a story about young love and social class. The star of the film is Anya Taylor-Joy (The Witch) who portrays the spoiled brat with just the right amount of wit and charm. ‘Emma’ hits the right notes and is a good time at the movies.
Emma Woodhouse (Taylor-Joy) is the young daughter of her wealthy father Mr. Woodhouse (well played by Bill Nighy). She is described as “handsome, clever and rich,” with “little to distress or vex her.” Emma likes to meddle in other people’s love lives. She likes to play matchmaker. She professes no interest in romance for herself. Her latest project is the simple but sweet Harriet Smith (Mia Goth). She stopped her from marrying a farmer (Connor Swindells) and steered her toward the minister Mr. Elton (Josh O’Connor). Meanwhile, she is friends with the handsome George Knightley (Johnny Flynn). He is about the only guy that challenges her. Could this be love?
Emma interferes too much in Harriet’s love life. When she is wrong, she tries to correct her mistakes. Emma has good intentions and does her best to set things right. Her friendship with Harriet grows into a genuine relationship. She wants the best for her. It makes Emma more humble and less selfish. The ball room is a wonderful scene. Mr. Knightley asks Harriet to dance in order to spare her embarrassment from being turned down by a former love interest. The dance scenes are impeccably choreographed. Although Emma enjoys fixing up her friends, she is quite the catch herself. One of her matches backfires when the man awkwardly confesses his attraction to her.
The fun part of the movie is that there are several players seeking love or marriage. As romance begins to spark, it happens in the beautiful English countryside. Many of the landscapes are reminiscent of paintings with pastel colors. You get the sense that Jane Austen felt that love makes the world go around. It is what matters most to enjoy a happy and fulfilling life. As you watch Emma help her friends find romance, you can’t help but root for her to find love too. When Emma and Mr. Knightely dance together, their chemistry is magical. It seems as though they were meant to be with each other. Let’s cross our fingers.
This latest adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic ‘Emma’ is a delicious confection. Anya Taylor-Joy continues to impress me with her acting prowess. This film pays homage to the romantic comedy. The fashion, the cinematography and the cast are guaranteed to delight. ‘Emma’ is handsome, clever, and rich.
