I know, I know, when you think of Jane Austen, the second name that comes to mind is Frank Torres. But, I’ve been force-fed enough of Austen’s classic works to recognize that when you take it to the big screen it can be period piece torture or a charming time at the movies. I’m happy to report “Emma” is the latter and this remake looks terrific.
Anya Taylor-Joy (Split, Glass) plays the title role of the sharp witted match-maker this time as she tries to figure out true happiness herself while meddling in the lives of her friends. Along the way, there are ups and downs and this is Jane Austen, so you might be familiar with the rest.
It all looks fantastic.
Director Autumn De Wilde gives us sharp costumes that jump out at us and some great shots that are all lit and framed beautifully, from the old style architecture to picnics in the fields, it’s a lot of fun to look at and the best part of the film. All of the performances are fine and Taylor-Joy makes a great Emma.
If there are some drawbacks, it’s that it’s Jane Austen, not Aliens vs. Predator, which means it’s not going to be for everyone. It’s a tad long winded and if you’re like me, you’d realize that most of Jane Austen’s characters could get their lives straight in about 20 minutes if they just said what’s on their mind at the beginning of the story.
But if you are looking for a fun romance, then this “Emma” should do nicely. And for the record, the best adaptation of this story is still “Clueless”.
Emma
Grade: B
Rated: PG (But there is some nudity, I have no idea how it passed)
Running time: 2 hours 4 minutes