Battle of the Emma Adaptations

Let's discuss and dissect every adaptation of Jane Austen's Emma and decide who did the best job bringing this beloved heroine to life. There can only be one winner.
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
1:02 1972 Miniseries
4:02 1996 Made-for-TV Film
6:14 1996 Theatrical Film
8:24 2009 Miniseries
11:41 2020 Film
15:13 Outro
Where to Find Me:
Instagram: / fulloflit
Goodreads: / daria
Important Links:
blacklivesmatters.carrd.co/
yemencrisis.carrd.co/
helplebanon.carrd.co/
helppalestine.carrd.co/
issuesintheworld.carrd.co/
Music:
• Debussy: 2 Arabesques,...
/ clearskyempee3
Thanks so much for watching!!

[@dragonsmayhem421]

I'm sorry that you aren't fond of Mr. Knightley as a romantic hero. He is my favorite Austen man. To see someone as they truly are, not an idealized version because you're swept in romance, and to love them in spite of their flaws THAT is a love that lasts. Knightley has always seen that Emma is spoiled and smart, he is afraid it will ruin her. At the end he recognizes her goodness has kept her safe and he genuinely loves the person she is. He treats her as an older brother because much of the time he is the only one who will tell her the truth, the only one who doesn't flatter her and inflate her ego. She pushes back because she knows he cares for her and sees his good intentions. Their love is built on friendship. To me best friends make the best spouses.

[@AS-yz2iz]

Agreed. Mr. Knightly is my favorite Austen romantic hero.

[@TheDivayenta]

The first Emma you showed exemplifies recent British casting only for ultra thin actresses in lead roles.

[@QuesaDia05]

I completely agree. They always loved one another, it just took some time for them to notice. Especially because they grew up together. I think their friendship is sweet, which made their romance sweet.

[@MothGirl007]

Totally agree - he's wonderful.

[@Lydynthmn]

Eh. I agree with the host lol. I only saw the one with dark haired Emma so I can't speak for the others, but in this one he was angry at her all the time. And right about everything when she was wrong, a common trope in old sexist movies. It just wasn't romantic for me at all.

[@ashmeadowphoenix]

I totally understand why you have a problem with the older brother energy knightly gives, but I actually think that's why Emma takes so long to realize. He IS her older "brother", through her sister's marriage to his brother. She's been casting him as family, and so doesn't realize when that affection for him has changed to love...until it is threatened. I think that's the trope of it all.

[@katharineeavan9705]

Why the line outside the ball "we are not brother and sister" is a great one. He's clearly felt some kinda way for a while, and she's overlooked that and her own feelings because she takes him for granted.

[@whyaskyy]

Oh, that’s why the dad said run to your uncle. Tks

[@AS-yz2iz]

Knightly is the best!

[@leonpage3585]

The chastising after Emma insults mrs bates in the 2020 version definitely feels way different than the other versions, and it seems intentional! The framing of the shot has emma up in the carriage and Knightley looking up at her from below, so we don't get the sense that he is bearing down on her in a position of authority/fatherhood. Most of the other adaptations have them on level footing, which allows Knightley to be taller and therefore looking down on Emma. The way the 2020 versions does it makes the moment feel much more like it's between close friends or equals.

[@QuirkyQuillify]

Great observation. It made me realize why the 2020 version didn't make me uncomfortable.

[@carolmeindl8973]

The Kate Beckensale version has Knightly on the ground and Emma in the carriage, too.

[@CM-pf1xc]

That’s a great point about the shots in that scene! I thought it was awkward but yes effective for equalizing the dynamics

[@BiologicalClock]

That, and his delivery of "badly done" sounded more natural and less condescending than in other adaptations, i.e. he sounds more like a close friend calling out appallingly bad behavior, rather than a man scolding a child. The 2020 version's best asset was that Knightley and Emma seemed to be on more equal footing and had a natural chemistry that wasn't present in the others.

[@MegaMilenche]

@@BiologicalClock But, should they be on equal footing? He's 16 years older than her after all.

[@EvangelinaGrey]

My brother has a single solitary metric by which he grades Emma adaptations, and that’s the “BADLY DONE” line. His favorite is Johnny Lee Miller

[@litladyloveshp]

My metric for a good Knightly is the "if I loved you less, I could talk about it more" line

[@mm-rv4fd]

Same!!!

[@PinkGrapefruit22]

The "badly done" delivery is what sealed the Kate Beckinsale version's fate as one of my least-liked Austen adaptations ever.

[@maxthecat14]

Mine too.

[@jemithomas7314]

Yes!!

[@tati3861]

uh how dare you not mention Clueless, THEE emma adaptation

[@ElizabethNicoleSchwartz]

Probably because it was only about direct adaptations. Like there's also a KZbin adaptation of Emma that wasn't mentioned called Emma Approved.

[@jeremyud]

@@ElizabethNicoleSchwartz I LOVED Emma Approved. They tried to do a sequel series but couldn't get the funding.

[@floraposteschild4184]

It's a good movie, but adaptation? Nah. Only in the most distant way.

[@tati3861]

@@erickyusuf2400 stfu

[@folasadeadedapo]

In all honesty I've been avoiding watching the 2020 adaption for the reason that: 1. I'm sorry but that Mr. Knightley is rather, hem...homely. I know that is the most shallow remark but there it is. 2. The 2009 version replaced my love for the Kate B version, and I was afraid the same would happen, but the 2009 version is my jam! Sooooo good!

[@jessicabethard9866]

I basically agree BUT the scene after Mr. Knightly’s proposal scene (in the 2009 version) is my all time favorite Emma movie scene. Where she bursts hysterically into Knightly’s library and tells him she can’t marry him then runs out. And the the conversation afterwards, it is just the best. That one scene is why 2009 gets my vote for the best Emma adaptation.

[@melissastruxness512]

My favorite Emma hands down. The entire thing was perfection. Loved it

[@fanc.5711]

Yes! Agree! I loved Johnny Lee Miller’s Knightley so much

[@liljade53]

I also love that we get to see Knightly take Emma to the seaside. I loved that scene!

[@piacolada206]

I haven’t seen this. Now my interest is piqued ❤

[@liljade53]

@@piacolada206 you will love it! and the music is great, too!

[@ThroughStoneWalls]

Emma realizes she loves Knightley when she faces the prospect of losing him. As is perfectly pointed out in this video, Emma has resigned herself to being her father's caretaker, and she is generally happy with her life. She has never considered that Knigtley could get married and no longer come for frequent visits. Those visits are essential to her contentment. In an instant, she knows that real love is not Ewan McGregor on a white horse; it's nights spent by the fire with the person you respect most in the world.

[@mariaefstratiou7427]

' I held you in my arms , when you were 3 weeks old' 'do you like me as well now as you did then?' WHAT IN THE HECK

[@PuzzleQodec]

I think you can blame Andrew Davies for that. He even gave lectures about it haha. Great great man though.

[@samuelperezgarcia]

Ghastly. xD

[@melanieklump592]

It gives off incredibly creepy grooming vibes...

[@ticktockbother6]

2009’s Emma is the version I always recommend people watch when they say they don’t like the book or character. Romola brings Emma to life and makes her three dimensional, flaws and all.

[@Maria_Xiao]

Yup!

[@MegaMilenche]

Oddly enough, I liked the book but hated the 2009's Emma.

[@user-ro5vp7ju5k]

@@MegaMilenche Yeah I agree! I felt like she was far too expressive in an unnatural way, I felt like she didn't really fit the role.

[@AS-yz2iz]

Yes! Love this version!

[@deniseespin191]

The 2009 version made me cringe at Emma and she was just so annoying.

[@delobster7711]

Omg thank you for validating my love for Romola Garai's Emma. She is my favorite Emma and this was so delightful I was so obsessed with it.

[@qww760]

I like this version of Mr. Knightly

[@galenbeers9955]

The Romola Garai “Emma” is absolutely the best. She portrays a believable modern feminist Emma who matchmakes to ensure the happiness of her friends and associates and grows into admirable self-awareness. Jonny Lee Miller is a *brilliant* Mr. Knightley except, of course, for the flaw in *allI of the “Emmas” (except the Kate Beckinsale one) in overlooking that Mr. Knightley is 16 years older than Emma. Michael Gambon is also sensational as the over anxious Mr. Woodhouse who we understand to be so protective because of the loss of his wife.

[@lotsamoxie]

@fulloflit Thank you for sharing my love for Romola Garai as Emma. To me, she is, hands-down, the best of any I’ve seen in this role. I also appreciate your insightful commentary on each version. 🌟

[@Jennifer-di4nl]

The 2020 version hired actors physically better for their roles...age appropriate. Which made it more believable. It was also funny and light, like the book.

[@spevoljub]

Quite the same with 2009 version. OK Romolla vas slightly "too old" (27) - but on the other hand just three years older than Anya Taylor -Joy in 2020 version. Johnny Lee Miller right age (37), same as Johnny Flynn

[@kasiemi]

Actually Jeremy Northam was 34 and Gwyneth Paltrow 23 when filming their version of Emma. So also quite age appropriate.

[@glenbe4026]

To me, the 2020 version of Emma does not feel like Emma. It feels like a Hollywood cartoon version of Emma. more similar to Clueless than to the book version of Emma. In fact, I do not feel Ana Taylor-Joy even read the book, let alone based her performance on book Emma.

[@Jennifer-di4nl]

@@Lynwen10 He looked scrumptious

[@Lynwen10]

@@Jennifer-di4nl seriously? Also those ridiculous collars the men had to wear didn’t help. To me it is an appalling version. But we all have different opinions.

[@Marscandy1]

I loved Harriet’s posture in that scene where she told Emma about her dad. The way she held herself was almost like a challenge to Emma to refute her. It showed how much Harriet had grown. She went to Emma with the news of Martin and subsequently her father to see how Emma would react and gauge where their friendship would go from there. It conveyed that Harriet wasn’t ashamed of her father being a tradesman instead of a gentleman and if Emma showed even an inkling of condescension I believed Harriet would not had forgiven her. It also showed how vulnerable Harriet was because while telling Emma about her father she was crying, which made you feel like she wasn’t sure if Emma was going to accept it. The hug at the end was one of relief as much as forgiveness. Good acting all around.

[@kateliness2]

I love the 2009 miniseries' version of Emma's character too much to ever let it not be my top favorite! Romola Garai is perfection.

[@ShipwreckedLibrary]

"The yearning and the HAND TOUCHES" I love it ahhhhh I love Emma so much, now I need to reread the book

[@BicoastalKate]

The yearning was done best in the ballroom between Jeremy Northam and Gwyneth Paltrow.

[@frankupton5821]

There is an in-joke in the version with Romola Garai, when she says that she is going to learn Chinese (to be one up on Jane Fairfax), Miss Garai actually does speak Cantonese.

[@Thelmageddon]

Oh, that's excellent 😁

[@tdsims1963]

Really! How very interesting!

[@suzum.9713]

Cool!

[@melissastruxness512]

She is my fave Emma by far and that is my favorite version as well

[@rebecca.j.hardy.author]

I always laughed at this because Sherlock Holmes (portrayed by Jonny Lee Miller) speaks Mandarin in Elementary.

[@rosea2350]

Who else really loved the 2020 version? I was so surprised at how good it was.

[@rowanjoy419]

who is not i mean I LOVE IT

[@pupetaksapann5527]

Emma by Anya is the best as well as mr knightley by Johnny Flynn I love how he shows the vulnerability of the charactor in 2020

[@Michaelneiss]

I loathed the 2020 adaptation . To me, the 2010 adaptation is the best, closely followed by the 1972 adaptation.

[@sadee1287]

Kate Beckinsale's version is THE best. Any adaptation _must_ not deviate far from the book. Dramatic licence has no place in a period piece. Out of all the adaptations, the characters looked the part and were age appropriate. Kate looked eighteen, as did Samantha Morton. Toni Colette's Harriet looked at least twenty five! I did agree that Mark Strong's Mr. Knightly was a bit too angry, and Strong could have dialed his anger and indignation back several notches. My only other gripe is pertinent information from the book being left out which changes the relationships between characters, or alters understanding for their motivations. Frank, seeming insensitive (which he WAS to a certain extent) is not the villain. Rather in trying to conceal his attachment to Jane required him to trespass on Emma's and Jane's feelings. He is not on the whole a hateful character. He makes amends to all concerned at the end of the book, and Emma holds no ill will against him, as well as establishing a lasting connection to Jane. I could never understand the discrepancy of Emma's being snobbish to some of the inhabitants of Highbury, whilst at the same time including both Harriet Smith (a 'natural' daughter) AND her former governess Anna (Taylor) Weston. Your choice of the latest adaptation as the best version is ill judged. When any adaptation strays so far away from the text, it fails. That's not even taking into account the casting, which in my opinion, was horrible.

[@iemand2612]

@@sadee1287 people have different opinions, adaptations always deviate from the book as it is another medium. there's a whole academic field that argues about adaptations and straying away from written texts

[@bebella9005]

"That is what makes a good period romance: the yearning and the hand touches" YES!!! Couldn't have said it better myself

[@katelynbuschman6359]

I still think the Gwyneth Paltrow line “I love John, I Hate John” takes the cake for me.

[@brindygray4410]

This was the exact line that came to me. Best chemistry between Emma and Knightley too.

[@mayloo2137]

@@brindygray4410 She was my favorite Emma. I haven't watched it in so long, I forget how good/bad Gwyneth Paltrow's English accent was

[@nicoledebace]

Agreed. And their "secret" scene is by far superior to any other version.

[@1rismono]

I'm not a fan of that version but her delivery was soooo good, i always rewatch that scene.

[@veryberry39]

This just brought flashbacks of the commercials for it on TV back in the day. I remembered wanting to see it, but our family could never afford the movie theater. :P

[@matthewzito6130]

One thing I like about the 2020 version is that Mr. Knightly seems amused with Emma far more often than he's angry or disappointed with her. It makes them seem more like peers, in spite of their age difference. Likewise, while Mr. Knightly is obviously fond of Emma's father, I get the impression that his frequent visits are more about spending time with Emma.

[@srkh8966]

The trouble is that Knightley was written like an older brother-which is realistic as their families were friends and his brother is married to her sister. He is not “romantic” by modern standards, but it works for the time period. He’s an outspoken Col. Brandon. None of the adaptations truly capture the book-especially the 2020 version, although it’s beautifully filmed and I like the actors. I get what they were going for, but Emma of the novel genuinely believes she’s doing good for those she interferes with-which is why it’s humorous. Only Kate Beckinsale and Romulo Garai capture that sincerity, which is necessary to show how snarky Emma becomes and to believe she’s truly horrified by what’s she’s done. The best Frank is a tie-Ray Coulthard and Ewan MacGregor make it easy to see how Emma was charmed into snarkiness. There is no “best” Knightley, but Jeremy Northam is my favorite just because he’s dreamy.

[@anaisabelvillelasaravia757]

For me is Romola Garai (2009), no doubt the best version of the real Emma, Austen´s Emma.

[@nlsgroup6taskssub-group799]

Same here. And the chemistry between Romola Garai and Jonny Lee Miller was wonderful.

[@knittingbooksetc.2810]

Agree!

[@mollichina1481]

I disagree. 2020 Emma is more Austen's 'heroine no one but myself will like' that Emma is supposed to be at first. The point of her character is that she isn't nice at first but she matures in the end. Garai's portrayal is a modernized Emma created to make her more likable to people who wouldn't like 'Austen's Emma': she's too nice, too childish, and too unladylike in her manners for someone of Emma's rank and context. The book counterpart would snob such a girl and look at her with disdain like she does with Robert Martin, the Coles and Mrs Elton.

[@niaestefania]

YEP!

[@DavidMyrmidon]

@@mollichina1481 2020 version felt like a carboard of a person dragged around overly designed set pieces. You're in England. You're rich. WE GET IT!

[@ranikster9955]

Emma 2009 is my all time favorite ❤️

[@TheMemoryPolice]

Mine too. But After watching the 2020 the second time I quite like it. I think Anya's Emma is more true to the book.

[@funkyfranx]

@@TheMemoryPolice How so?

[@TheMemoryPolice]

@crush broke - I think the noseblood scene ruined it for me. LOL

[@TheMemoryPolice]

@hasslfoot - Very true. However, in the book, she not likable. You really dislike her. So Anya's Emma was more true to the book.

[@AS-yz2iz]

It's superior for sure.

[@nadiab7764]

BBC version 2009 was the best one. It’s so charming and humorous and the casting of everyone is perfect. I’ve watched it a million times. My absolute favorite.

[@emilywandosen8472]

It is inaccurate.

[@avidreader1527]

Romola Garai was bloody awful , Emma Woodhouse is supposed to be a lady , I don't know what Romola thought she was doing when she portrayed her like that .

[@melissastruxness512]

@@avidreader1527 Romola was PERFECT. She portrayed her the best if any of them. Go actually watch it. Pay attention. I am not the only one who feels this way

[@melissastruxness512]

Agreed

[@nf7710]

@@melissastruxness512 where can I watch it?

[@edene.4870]

I actually liked the '96 Paltrow & Northam version best, character interpretation and casting wise. No other adaptation has done Miss Bates and the Eltons better. Not to mention Harriet. Northam is also my favourite actor for Knightley, who *is* 16 years older than Emma, and that age difference is perfectly visible both physically and actions-/body language-wise. I can't say the same of some of the other adaptations. My only regret in regards to that adaptation is that it was too short to do the talent of the actors justice.

[@srdladybug]

Agreed. This is my favorite version.

[@danielroy5358]

I agree. Northam’ s “Badly done, Emma! Badly done.” is magnificent! He’s also the right age for Knightley in relation to Emma.

[@fsr7499]

I can watch the 1996 GP version at any time, and have. I couldn't get through the 2020 version, b/c its Knightley didn't appear to be much older than Emma, not to mention the distracting camera angles and screen-full-sized fonts (as attempts to modernize it).

[@richardarcher3435]

@@fsr7499 I also think the 1996 version the best, but then it was also the first version I saw. I think this version is the funniest. Virtually every scene I find myself laughing. I love that scene near the proposal, "I love John .... I hate John". The little Harriet mementoes scene, the puppies scene, "Mr Elton also had brown eyes", the teasing scene whether Mr Knightly fancies Miss Fairfax, the scene at the Coles party where Mr Elton plants himself inbetween Mr Knightly and Emma and Mr Knightly is smirking at Elton's obvious keen attention towards Emma and Emma's blindness and annoyance that Mr Knightly might be right, there's just so much laughter in this movie. I love the way Mr Knightly, even when he's cross with Emma he also shows he's being cruel to be kind. In the 'badly done' scene after Knightly has told her off he starts to leave but comes back with words that partly cushion the blow and show that he is telling her off with love. The scene when she's still feeling the affects of the Miss Bates insult and Mr Knightly announces he's leaving for a while. Their parting in that scene shows more clearly that he has forgiven her and I think he even kisses her hand (some time since I've seen it), and the proposal scene is the best.

[@fsr7499]

@@richardarcher3435 I literally agree with everything you wrote. It was my first too and every time a new version came out, I hoped it would be as funny and it just wasn’t. I feel the same about 1995 Sense and Sensibility.

[@kristinal-ghoul2680]

You're entitled to your opinion, but I will always prefer the 2009 version with Romola Garai and Jonny Lee Miller. I don't see how you could have missed the romantic chemistry between them in their dance at the ball. From that point the tension between them grew and was almost touchable. I agree with you that Harriet was not well done, but she was balanced by Michael Gambon as Emma's father--he's just superb. Bill Nighy is way too high energy for a character that is a self-described invalid.

[@IAmOmniscient]

I think the 2020 adaptation is the best one among the films because they have to cut out so much material in order to have a normal run time. But I ABSOLUTELY agree. The 2009 mini-series with Garai and Miller is my absolute favorite because it covers the entire story in detail, but also because the relationship between them feels genuine and palpable from the beginning. Their chemistry peaks at the ball and then the path to the ending is very well rendered.

[@lisabelle1960]

Same!!!

[@bw3839]

I absolutely agree! The 2020 was a fluffy fun take on Emma but hardly a true adaptation of the book- the behavior of the characters is sometimes so different it hardly feels like an Austen story anymore. It was fun yes- had a few sexy bits- yes , but the 2009 version was a thousand times more accurate to the novel- and most importantly- kept some of the depth of the novel and the Jane Austen vibes. If you wanted to say the 2020 was the shiniest and most modern take, then great - but it’s hardly the best adaptation of the book. I personally felt that 2009 Knightley and Emma had quite a lot of chemistry, and yes, Knightley did sound like a bossy older brother because that was the character that Austen wrote. The families had grown up together and Knightley had watched her grow up- and was one of the few people with enough privilege and sense to be able to lecture her when he felt she was being bratty. So although it may not be to everyone’s taste, they were actually being quite accurate to the novel.

[@bw3839]

@@IAmOmniscient I think the 2020 whams you in the head with SEXUAL TENSION and DRAMA which makes it fun, and appealing to people and I have watched it many times lol- but as far as a good adaptation of the characters that Jane Austen wrote- the 2009 version blows it out of the water. It’s not only beautifully done, but I absolutely loved Garai’s Emma and her vibes with Miller. I don’t think they really belong in the same category, honestly- Emma 2020 is more of a riff on the novel than a real adaptation.

[@9401maru]

@@bw3839 👆🏻 THAT

[@BeckytaSU]

My favorite is the 2009, I really loved Emma and Mr. Knightley performances

[@Keyaqp]

I agree. It is just perfect 😊😍

[@barbaradizon791]

Me too! I liked the chemistry between the actors and I thought the tension between the characters was played quite well.

[@annmariethomas9968]

Agreed. And the dance scene in the 2009 was better with lovely music, color, expression. It’s fun to have so many to watch.

[@TheCrayonMaster]

@@annmariethomas9968 yes!!! And I also think the dance scene in the 2009 version was romantic

[@classicmiriam]

I loved them too

[@ojyochan]

Knightley was supposed to be that older brother figure, that was the point...

[@zetizahara]

Likewise, Harriet was supposed to be an idiot. She wasn't the prudent choice for Emma's companion, she was the one that played to her vanity.

[@kahkah1986]

@@zetizahara not quite an idiot. Some of her insights do seem pretty basic, but she gets things right because she isn't overly fanciful. So she realises Mr Elton praises Emma's artistry, not her portrait, for example.

[@mollichina1481]

Yes, but he never treats Emma as a child and he isn't as paternalistic as old adaptations make him. He doesn't teach her, he doesn't baby sit her. You still need to make his romantic feelings believable because the guy ultimately thinks of her as someone whom he wants to be his wife and the mother of his kids. He does see her as an adult woman and there is no conflict about her being younger, he just thought she didn't love him back. She doesn't even really see him as her brother, in fact she denies that at the ball reminding him that she is not his sister. Austen also states that Emma herself perceives him as young. All the emphasis on the age difference is modern audiences/writers projecting their own prejuduces because at the time, it was actually normal and conventional for women to marry older guys. A man in his 30s was the top. His age is never an issue in the novel (not even when Harriet, who is 17, has a crush on him)

[@marichristian1072]

Or father figure seeing that her own father was feeble.

[@mollichina1481]

@@marichristian1072 Mr Knightley never ever acts as her father and she surely doesn't perceive him as that. She doesn't even think of him as her brother and she perceives him as a hot young guy at the ball.

[@katdenning6535]

My favorite adaptation of Emma was (surprisingly) the 1996 one because I felt it did the best portrayal of Emma’s complexity. In all the other adaptations, her main characteristic is selfishness and spoiled ness, but I always thought her isolation (both physically and socially) combined with her intelligence with no outlets impacted her character in a way no other adaptation seemed to address. To me, Emma is one of my favorite characters because she is so misunderstood. She is Elizabeth Bennett but without the companionship of an equal and few appropriate outlets for her wit and vivacity. The difference is her cage in society is guilded and she’s been raised in a bubble. I think it’s hard for modern readers/viewers to see her as anything but a selfish snob because it’s hard to comprehend how strict the social rules of the Regency were.

[@beautifulday1996]

i've actually sold my soul to the 2020 version of emma so i'm glad it's also your top choice lmao. everything about that movie is perfection,;it's visually stunning, so well written, and emma and knightley's chemistry is everything to me

[@luluwoods3031]

I thought it was horrible written. I didn’t feel any chemistry or passion at all. Zero! It seemed like they focused so much on the costumes then the writing. And I hated how they portrayed the characters. Like Jane. They made her into a spiteful bitch. And they didn’t show anything about Mrs. Churchill and her friendship with Emma. Plus the guy playing Mr. Knightly didn’t show much emotion. It felt very forced. Also how they made important scenes very short and not important really bothered me. They are important for a reason.

[@jules6578]

@@luluwoods3031 idk it was way more comedy focused than just the romance which is why I think it was written that way, because Emma was intended to be a comedy than a romance.

[@maryhamric]

@@luluwoods3031 AGREE AGREE AGREEEEEEEEE!!!!

[@bakedandsalty9234]

Agreed. It was my pandemic comfort film.

[@o4ka47]

The fact that Frank Churchill and Jane end up together has always bothered me. He is the worst and she deserves much better.

[@carly9077]

Yes! But I've seen it happen, wich shows how much Jane Austen knew human nature..

[@akupke7953]

If your read "Jane Fairfax" by Joan Aiken, it might reconcile you with this match to some extend.

[@knittingknut]

@@akupke7953 is it a novel or an article ?

[@akupke7953]

@@knittingknut, it is a novel.

[@knittingknut]

@@akupke7953 ah I found it on Amazon. Thanks for suggesting it

[@elizabethashley42]

The 2009 version is the absolute best adaptation to me but the Kate Beckinsdale version is so underrated.

[@forgetmenot957]

I loved the Kate Beckinsale one - all the cast was marvellous x

[@vernaharris181]

I cannot stand the Paltrow Emma, my favorite...Kate Beckensale.

[@beyourself2444]

Paltrow worst, Beckinsale best…

[@glr4275]

Yes, agree 100%

[@christinebadostain6887]

Miller and Garai scene when he is chastising her for persuading Mrs. Smith to reject Mr. Martin is excellent.

[@ro5marinu5]

That's my favourite scene.😍 I have a huge crush on someone I know from childhood and I would fantasize that he would chastise like that.😅😅

[@TheMissileHappy]

I don't quite understand the critique, because to me Knightley seemed like an older brother in the book as well, so it was pretty accurate.

[@easolinas1233]

Romola Garai's is the best, in my humble opinion. It captured the different facets of Emma's personality, and the growth she undergoes throughout the story, perfectly.

[@MegaMilenche]

God, no, she was too soft in the head.

[@jaricot1056]

I agree with you.

[@user-ro5vp7ju5k]

I felt like she was far too expressive in an unnatural way, and that she didn't really fit the role.

[@TheCatLady51]

Romola Garai in 2009 by far. She was made for the role!

[@marichristian1072]

@Kim M: I agree she's wonderful as Emma

[@alexpond648]

Love it, totaly agree too! I'm such a fan of Kate Beckinsale, but I couldn't watch her Emma - I just couldn't. Liked all of the other caracters better than Gwyneth, they outshine her. Never saw the old one. The new one I need to rewatch, but...

[@evam5134]

Yes absolutely.

[@adailydaughter6196]

Yep! Hands down. Followed by good ol' Gweneth 😊

[@flowerchickenhairsparkle6779]

Taylor Joy did pretty well

[@jamierussellville101]

My favorite will probably always be the Gwyneth one. My favorite knightly by far. The dress/bonnet when shes stuck in the water is one of my fav costumes ever, I really loved her dresses, and the scene where they kiss in front of the big tree and pan out is one of my favorite cinema moments. Something about the tree and the sweeping camera angle just moves me.

[@anotherjunkie2]

2009 is Emma to me

[@emmabennet888]

I haven't seen the older Emma adaptations, but I completely agree with your analysis and comparison of the most recent two. My first Emma was also the BBC 2009 adaptation and it definitely holds a special place in my heart. I really love the Romola Garai appreciation - she is absolute perfection, if more endearing than book Emma, in this adaptation.

[@2010Sanctuary]

Kate Beckinsale and Mark Strong did an excellent job, and it was a very good overall cast, and tells the story without being pretentious or creating 2 dimensional characters. I was aware of the acting in several of the modern versions, and could even anticipate when the actors were about to hit their "best" line, which pulled away from the telling of the story. A good director understands that it is the circumstances and the other characters in the plot that draw out the essential points of the heroines and heroes. I know that Mark Strong felt he played his Mr. Knightly too harshly in that version, but, I think he nailed it. His character was quite a bit older than Emma, falling for her, and felt his disappointment at her steely blunder, deeply. I was not a Beckinsale fan, and don't know many of her movies, but, I think she did an exemplary job, as did all of the other actors in this version. Well done. There are few films I go back to, but, this is one, when I want to be immersed in a story line and really good acting.

[@ImmortalBroken]

When you said you weren't sold on Knightley as a love interest, I was like, "Okay, I can't swear I wouldn't have felt that way if I'd read the book before I saw any adaptations and if I wasn't able to imagine Jonny Lee Miller in my head." So I was really shocked that you weren't that into his Knightley with Emma! He and Romola's chemistry was perfect. And their dance at the ball was absolutely brimming with romance. You can see the feelings coming to the surface for her so strongly, even if she doesn't process them in her head until later.

[@obsessivefangirl5055]

Honestly yess 1000%! JLM and Romola had such adorable romantic chemistry. Even though I loved the sexual tension in the 2020 version, the mini series was pretty spot on in its depiction of Emma & Knightley, capturing the spirit of the book

[@maryhamric]

Agree. Jonny Lee Miller IS Mr. Knightley. I have not seen a Mr. K that lives up to his performance.

[@AS-yz2iz]

​@@maryhamricAbsolutely!

[@impartialeggplant4438]

Yes I just rewatched that dance scene and it's genuinely so sweet, the music is the PERFECT accompaniment, I have it saved on Spotify.

[@hollyisblue]

Ah Romola Garai slays in every role she's ever had so she would be my fave, but I haven't seen the 2020 version yet and this has made me want to watch it much more!

[@tonya--7704]

I'm sorry but I was very disappointed in the 2020 Emma. The best parts were the eccentricities of Mr. Woodhouse and his "drafts". Knightly was just okay and the Emma actress was awful. She reminded me of Nellie on Little House on the Prairie. Romola and Jonny for me ( love the way they fight!) followed closely by Gwyneth and Jeremy.

[@LQOTW]

@@tonya--7704 I can't help but see 2020's Emma as her character in Queen's Gambit or Peaky Blinders.

[@tonya--7704]

@@LQOTW Yes. She's just not endearing at all.

[@flowerchickenhairsparkle6779]

@@tonya--7704 Knightley was brilliantly cast in 2020! And the only reason you have for calling Joy ‘awful’ is that she reminds you of someone.

[@tonya--7704]

@@flowerchickenhairsparkle6779 Your opinion, of course. Sorry, mine happens to differ.

[@andreaticas5573]

I love all Emma adaptations, but Romola's Emma is perfect!!

[@denisecrawford2425]

Kate Beckinsale, without a doubt. When handsome Mark Strong walked in, the entire movie became loveable and memorable

[@BicoastalKate]

Gwyneth may not be the best Emma, but everyone else in the cast is the best in their roles -- particularly Jeremy Northam. Mrs. and Miss Bates, Harriet, Emma's father, Jane, Mr. Elton, Mr. Elton's wife, Mrs. Weston -- they were all better in the 1996 version.

[@anananwi]

A lot of this is personal taste but I have to say Harriet is completely miscast in the 1996 version. I love Toni Collette but why did they have her put weight on for the role? She isn't the kind of pretty that is mentioned throughout the novel in relation to Harriet and she is made to look excessively foolish throughout. I know she's a comedy character in many ways but still...

[@rootedandgrounded0911]

I never liked Gwyneth as an actress; until I first saw the "96" version of Emma. I think she was stellar in her expressions and she did an excellent job carrying the comedic aspects of Emma's immature outlook on life and romance. I completely agree, however, with your assessment of the supporting actors in this interpretation; whoever did the casting hit it out of the park. In my mind the pace and story progression are well balanced and engaging for the time dictated in film.

[@msinvincible2000]

My thoughts exactly! Beckinsale, in that adaptation would have been perfect

[@janegardener1662]

@@rootedandgrounded0911 Whoever did the casting did hit it out of the park--except for Emma. They cast her to appeal to American audiences which unfortunately dragged it down a notch or two from perfect.

[@CM-pf1xc]

GP is a great Emma! She’s charming and sophisticated as book Emma is/would be but Subtly shows her vanity and selfishness, it’s just more understated which I think is accurate to the book

[@jacquelemke9046]

I completely agree with the reasons why you don't like the 1972 adaption. However, the "staged" and life-like direction of that adaption was actually intentional! This version and adaptations of other stories that were filmed under the BBC channel (I believe it was the BBC4) were nearly all written and directed as if the audience were watching a play at the theatre and not a storytelling saga. I agree though that because of this it makes it sometimes hard to be engaged in and like. But that was their intent at the time and I am so happy that later adaptions went in a completely different direction!

[@LQOTW]

I recall watching the early 1970's BBC version of The Six Wives of Henry VIII. Definitely viewed as a stage play - to the point that some of the props actually had their prop stickers on the bottom of them!

[@fruzsimih7214]

The worst point for me in the 1972 adaptation was the casting of a much too old actress as Emma. She looked like an old maid, not like a vivacious 21-year-old.

[@sindis7589]

Stage plays are not so merciless what comes to the actors' age.

[@davidjones332]

@@fruzsimih7214 Factually you are wrong. Doran Godwin was actually only 21 at the time she made this adaptation, Emma's exact age, though I agree she looks and acts like a much older woman. I think this is accentuated because Debbie Bowen was an excellent Harriet Smith, catching her youth, naivety and not being particularly bright. She was in fact much better than the spectacularly miscast Toni Colette, who I thought was dreadful. Apart from anything else, alongside the slender Gwyneth Paltrow she was just physically far too big.

[@_Sakidora_]

There was no BBC4 in the 1970s.

[@Min61449]

My favourite was the Gwenyth Paltrow version as it was the first Emma adaptation I saw. I thought the music, costumes and characters were wonderful. It was a hard decision between that and the 2020 version. I note the criticism of the 2020 version in the comments but I really enjoyed it. I liked the comedic aspects of regency society displayed in the movie. I enjoyed watching Emma’s journey as her character developed. A talented cast including musically! The actors playing Jane and Emma really were playing at the recital and the song at the end credits was written and sung by the actor playing Mr. Knightly.

[@charlenestrauss3539]

My favourite is also the Gwyneth Paltrow version (probably because it's the first I saw as well) but it's followed closely by the 2020 version as I think that was also excellent.

[@genevievejaneczek9768]

I think she did amazing. I LoVE the piano/singing scene too, when she doesn’t want to be seen as not as accomplished. Hilarious

[@poladaiz]

My favorite is the Kate Beckinsale's version. I just adore that movie!

[@filuska]

Agree, it's the best!

[@hayuef_]

I love emma in 2020, i just feel i can see what emma want, the perfection is when she and mr knighley sit together and touching hand each other that is the best moment of the movie.

[@LuxVi7]

To me the perfect Emma is Romola Garai, just loved that 2009 adaptación and Jhonny Lee Miller did an amazing job as Mr. Knightley too!

[@brendak1145]

Agree. My favorite version.

[@shananika]

This is also my favorite adaptation and is the only one I own on DVD 😊

[@JR-sx3gl]

I absolutely agree.

[@trishg8852]

Agree! my favorite too ❤️

[@raineysmith3303]

Absolutely agree! Garai's Emma is an intelligent if entitled character who, I believe, embodies Austen's championing of the highest principles of modern feminism. Her "meddling" may be awkward and clueless in the case of Mr. Elton but it's also motivated as much by kindness as boredom. Jonnie Lee Miller is perfection as Mr. Knightly. ...tho the casting has the very typical flaw of ignoring the fact that he should be at least a decade older. He's the exact right degree of proper and personally oblivious v concerned for the welfare of both Emma, Mr. Woodhouse. Finally, Michael Gambon is perfection as Mr. Woodhouse.

[@tiffanytaylor5295]

Fun fact: the actress who was in the 1977 verison played Mrs. Gardener in the 1995 Pride & Prejudice

[@firiel2366]

Omg I can see it

[@stuffwithsoph8264]

Well, luckily she was good in Pride and Prejudice

[@Girl-rj3qe]

I don’t think it’s her. The Mrs Gardiner in Pride and Prejudice 1995 (Joanna David) played Elinor Dashwood in the 1970s, not Emma Woodhouse

[@detectivedaffodil437]

I loved the 2020 version, it was unique and delightful.

[@offbeatblackgerl8360]

Kate Beckinsale was absolutely amazing in that part. She was perfect.

[@christiana_mandalynn]

I agree. I really like the Kate Beckinsale version. Mark Strong as Mr Knightly was my favorite (with the exception of that awful, romance-mood-killing line at the end, and that was on the writer/director, not on him). I really feel that Kate Beckinsale captured Emma perfectly with her aloof snootiness, and then learning compassion in the end.

[@MegaMilenche]

@@christiana_mandalynn That line was in the book, if I remember. So if people have a problem with that line, they essentially have a problem with Austen herself cus she didn't think nothing of it xD

[@katharineeavan9705]

@@MegaMilenche I don't recall that line being in there at all, but I could be wrong. There was one in his letter about having loved her since she was 12 which is... not the best.

[@MegaMilenche]

@@katharineeavan9705 12 or 13. Still, he never said he wanted to be with her or that he actively planned to pursue her. It will sound like an excuse, but it can also be read as "he could see the potential of her being an amazing woman when grown up". I genuinely believe that he would've never made the move first.

[@Marielusi]

For me Emma 2009 is still my favourite. I felt Emma 2020 was kind of pushed to be a comedy and some characters seemed like caricatures to me, but I liked the costumes.

[@rukbat3]

I absolutely agree. 2020 Emma had its good points, but it felt really unbalanced to me. It focused on Emma, Knightley, and Harriet to the exclusion of most of the really great secondary characters. The Jane Fairfax/Frank Churchill subplot was practically nonexistent, and I honestly can't recall a single thing Miss Bates did in the entire movie.

[@wietskewestbroek7678]

I agree as well. Loved the costumes apart from one or two exceptions. Emma 1996 still my favourite.

[@Mcgillicuddy62]

The Austen books are quite funny. That’s why I liked this one best

[@ileanaaaaa]

I thought: Finally they made it a comedy! I always thought they have always tried to make it overly sweet when this is a funny book :D but I'm glad there are so many interpretations for everyone preferences

[@Riquilina]

The only character I enjoyed actively on the 2020 adaptation was Mrs Elton she was just as the book’s

[@snc4090]

Emma is my favorite Austen book. I love it with all my heart. The 2020 Adaptation delivered the Emma I always envisioned.

[@klila16]

My favourite is the Kate Beckinsale one. It feels the most authentic least staged and most natural.

[@playanakobi4407]

Whenever I see adaptations of books and previous movies/series, I would always remember that these new adaptations tries to emphasize on things that have not been tackled before. That's why we see it so differently otherwise, it's just the same movie/series. thank you for reviewing these!

[@marilynrowland5197]

Kate Beckinsale was my favorite, by far! That production was the most impeccable in every way, including the cast. Each role was perfectly cast! The ending was altered, but in a good way. I loved the whole thing and have watched it at least a half-dozen times. And I want to offer a shout-out to Mark Strong, who was a wonderful Mr. Knightly! "Badly done, Emma! Badly done!"

[@dragonlyra]

For me, the perfect version of Emma is the one with Gwyneth Paltrow. Most likely because the casting was outstanding, and Jeremy Northam is exactly like I imagined Mr. Knightley. The whole movie just carries that playful, witty charm that the book has.

[@floraposteschild4184]

I'm no Kate Beckinsale fan, so it's a big deal for me to say that her version (1996) is the best. Both book accurate and true to the spirit of the characters, but also lively and contemporary. If anyone wants an introduction Austen, this is the adaptation I would pick.

[@CM-pf1xc]

But that mr. knightly! 🤮

[@harpgal9950]

Loved this version the best, too. A young (pre-Hollywood) Kate was perfect at that time for the role. All the cast was so good, especially Robert Strong and Prunella Scales.

[@scorpiosunrising7964]

My absolute favourite version as well. I don't know Beckinsale much as an actor but I loved her Lady Susan too.

[@ruthsaunders9507]

Mark Strong was wonderful. Its not often you get a masculine man in these roles.

[@Acme633]

@@ruthsaunders9507 I have difficulty believing Mark Strong to be Mr. Knightly after seeing him beat up Hit-Girl in Kick-Ass.

[@noellebarry9639]

I love the version with Kate Beckinsale and Mark Strong

[@rebeccarausch7782]

I have watched all the versions between 5 and 50 times each, and for the most part I agree with your rankings. My favorite is the 2009 version with Ramola Garai and Jonny Lee Miller. I adore Jonny Lee Miller and think he is perfect for the role. He definitely pines! 🥰 This adaptation is closest to the book and incredibly enjoyable throughout. I also loved the 2020 version. The chemistry between Emma and Knightly is perfection, but for me the 2009 version is best. I am 10 years younger than my husband so the age difference between Emma and Knightly doesn’t phase me at all, but the lecturing is over the top in all the versions in my opinion, even 2020. I hope you do a Battle of the Pride and Prejudice Adaptations soon! ❤️

[@obsessivefangirl5055]

the reasons you described for loving both the 2009 & the 2020 versions is essentially why I love them too

[@wendychristensen5506]

Gwyneth Paltrow as Emma was perfect! She has a wonderful sense of comedic timing and GP also was lively and beautiful.

[@AmeeliaK]

It's my favourite, too. Also, it has the best Mr. Knightley.

[@Funshine999]

I love the scene in the buggy with Harriet where Emma is venting about her meeting with the new Mrs Elton. The way she breaks off to greet people they're passing with utter charm and then goes straight back into spitting feathers is hilarious.

[@artyk3835]

She was the perfect Emma! ❤

[@AccioPadfoot12]

Oh wow. Paltrow I thought was the best Emma, with all those faces she made. Romola just didn't convince me she was actually Emma - I didn't get any snob vibes from her, if I recall. And like you, I thought Knightly was overbearing. The chemistry Jeremy Northam and Gwyneth Paltrow had was so convincing! Loved all the actors in that version and wish it was longer - I can't disagree that the Jane/Churchill storyline was sort of glossed over. I haven't seen the 2020 adaptation yet - I sure need to.

[@CM-pf1xc]

Yes yes yes

[@kathleensmith8365]

Great topic. I respect the affection and loyalty of viewers for perhaps the first time they saw Emma come to life. Me too. But the 2020 production had me mesmerized. The setting, the costumes, the people were so vivid. I felt this production best captured Jane's novel. I have read Emma many times and read again it after I saw this film and enjoyed the book even more. I think this Mr. Knightly conveys to a modern audience what Jane intended. I saw the film in the theater just before COVID lockdown. That made it even dearer to me.

[@Rin-og9hz]

I think it’s kind of funny that Kate Beckinsale sort of played Emma twice. Cold Comfort Farm was a sort of modern adaptation/based off of it, like Clueless would end up doing. (This version being in the 1930s.) I know this video was strictly Book AdaptationsTM, but I highly recommend it. It’s hysterical.

[@MinaReads]

okay fine i will finally read Emma and watch the 2020 film. the way that daria constantly motivates me to watch certain films and shows is a super power methinks

[@forgetmenot957]

Kate Beckinsale and Mark strong are the BEST!

[@suzannahdarcy6903]

Emma has never been a novel or film I've particularly liked (I'm team P&P), but I LOVED the 2020 film version too

[@farawayeye8423]

I loved Gwyneth Paltrow in the role; her “innocent”conceitedness is delightful

[@arwena4041]

The 2020 version, along with 1995 p&p miniseries are my absolute favourite Austen adaptations. I might be biased because this was the first Emma adaptation I watched but I just love everything about it. And the comedy is just *chef's kiss*

[@michaeldeardeuff693]

My favorite part of the 2020 rendition is that Emma's actions have actual, lasting consequences beyond that scene. It wasn't just silly things easily mended over, but actual hurt to the other characters.

[@jols._.9835]

Watching Emma realise how heartbroken both Harriet and Robert are was such an excellent scene

[@fruzsimih7214]

That's true. And it's not only emotional hurt, but Harriet could really end up all alone, without any money, if she didn't marry a suitable man but ran after all those others who were much above her station.

[@olivia7170]

The 2009 mini series was also my first introduction to Emma and I adore it. I love what they did with Jane Fairfax and Frank Churchill. I didn’t know they were secretly together the entire time when I first watch and it was a stunning twist but it made sense. Frank was cast perfectly, he was charming but you sense the deceitfulness. Now if they combined that part of the mini series with the 2020 movie, that movie would have been perfect. I adored Emma 2020 (I agree this was the best Knightly x Emma romance adaptation) but I found I didn’t enjoy Frank and Jane as much.

[@Oladriver]

My favorite is Emma with Kate Beckinsale. I like all the characters in it. The light feels natural and beautiful from candles and fireplaces. I love Emmas romantic day dreams.

[@MegaMilenche]

I LOVE Mark Strong's Knightly and Kate Beckinsale was so good as Emma. Gwyneth Paltrow's Emma was serviceable. Romola Garai as Emma was horrendous to me, too sloppy and soft in the head. I couldn't understand why people would revere her or respect her as a lead in the community, she feels like a person who needs help cutting a piece of meat. 2020 Emma was solid, Knightly was good but too youthful looking. The worst part were too comedic Mr. Woodhouse and Frank Churchill made me me think of waling STD and not a charming gentleman.

[@ruthsaunders9507]

@@MegaMilenche Mark Strong is the best, by far. Its rare for these Regency heroes to be so masculine. When he says "badly done" you feel it. Kate did a good job being annoying but not so much that you can't forgive her thoughtlessness. Prunella Scales was wonderful.

[@clairey6407]

I've only seen the oldest three. The first one I saw was the Kate Beckinsale one when I was young and I absolutely loved it. I really enjoyed the Gwyneth Paltrow one too, but Kate's Emma has a special place in my heart; probably because it was the first one I ever saw. 😊

[@shaunawaters3687]

Loved the 2020 version. My favourite Emma and Johny Flynn is gorgeous.

[@traceyhordern222]

How much you love Jane Austen is so obvious - very well done!

[@JulianaRumple]

that dance on the newest movie is so sensual and yet simple, i love that scene.

[@jfess1911]

My Wife and I just watched the 2020 adaptation of Emma and I found that I really enjoyed Mia Goth as Harriet. She seemed more like a young, easily influenced girl than others I have seen in the part. Although you noted that chemistry between Emma and Knightley at the dance, it was earlier in this scene, when Knightley asked Harriet to dance, that really touched me. The change in Harriet from crying to beaming with happiness throughout the dance was wonderful to watch. It is also the scene where we begin to appreciate Knightley, largely for his kindness to Harriet.

[@clairemeehan7250]

This was so enjoyable, thank you 😊 My favourite is also the 2020 version - it had so much humour and warmth and was the first time that I feel an adaptation got Mr Knightley right.

[@clarekuehn4372]

I think the main actress in 2020 was *too* harsh, with no character energy. But the overall characters are good. ... The pacing was a bit fast. Gwyneth Paltrow in 1996 had a bit more sweetness under her errors.

[@kittyjames8897]

Agreed

[@Monica-jl3um]

What do you mean by no character energy?

[@sacrosby]

I'm not a fan of the actress really.

[@freudulant]

Agreed. She had absolutely no charm so it wasn't believable that Mr Knightly fell in love with her.

[@clarekuehn4372]

@@Monica-jl3um Showy, superficial.

[@annasmith6090]

IMO: The 2009 miniseries is a great Emma romance. The 2020 movie is THE great Emma romantic comedy.

[@nataliebuck-bauer7856]

Pining and hand touching is all I want out of a period pice.

[@aprilw2287]

The 1996 version is my favorite. It has charm in a way the others don't. I haven't seen the 2020 adaptation yet though.

[@CM-pf1xc]

Yeeeesss I don’t know how everyone’s overlooking it between the 1996 Kate beckinsale TV movie and 2009 series. 1996 GP Emma is a MASTERPIECE!

[@cest_what]

My favorite version had Gwyneth Paltrow as Emma and Jeremy Northam was my fave Mr. Knightley. The whole cast was great in this version, as well.

[@godlesslippillow]

I found your channel like yesterday and have been watching all of these. I’m shocked you didn’t talk about the perfection that was Harriet in the 2020 adaptation. A young woman who wants to please her (maybe first) best friend of definitively higher status. Who is beautiful, also assuming the best in others, loyal, charming, socially intelligent and quick to catch on an conduct herself well, Thirsty AF, full of sensibility. She made me laugh so hard so many times second only to Miss Bates.

[@evelynvongizycki1017]

I love the 2020 one. I think it accurately portrayed the Regency Period in costume and manners. Even Jane Austin says that Emma might be a character that only she likes and that no one else will like. It is the film it works the best because like you said there is a real story arc for EMMA and for Knightly as well. The one thing that heard it was the score it did not always make sense but other than that I thought this was so well acted as well I enjoyed the actors they were top notch

[@candaceroberts3238]

My favorite is the Gwyneth Paltrow version. I liked the entire cast, I thought them the entire cast was charismatic and each character was well cast. I preferred the longer version so we could enjoy more of the story. And Knightly was perfect, certainly the best of all versions. My second is the Romulo Garai version. I liked her so much, I felt she made the movie shine. Most of the other actors I really liked as well. I didn’t like the 2020 version at all. I felt the actors were lacking and some rather odd looking. Visually it was the most beautiful. I think the cast makes or breaks the movie. Not to ignore the script, but if you have a poor cast the script will fall flat.

[@beyourself2444]

Absolute worst version by a country mile, Gwyneth is literally the same character in every movie, she cannot act.

[@verobarrionuevo]

You are so rigth, Candace

[@tamaratoday6235]

I absolutely agree, Candace. Gwyneth Paltrow was perfectly cast because she, like Emma, has her head stuck up her a**. 😆 JK, I’ve never liked Paltrow, but thought she did great playing Emma. Everyone else is so perfectly cast (minus Jane Fairfax, I thought she looked about 20 years older than the rest of her contemporaries) and there is no better version of Miss Bates.

[@jamesmatthews1010]

This is a really excellent survey of the "Emma" adaptations. I loved your insights and great enthusiasm for the topic. And everyone is all abuzz weighing in with their own impressions and favorites. As for me, I find myself very keen to watch the two versions I have yet to see, so there is no greater proof then that. Masterful. Really, a very successful effort. Well done!

[@LadyofLenox]

There's no better Mr Knightly than the 96 adaptation and I'll go to the grave with that

[@itsmeGeorgina]

Yeah, you mean the Paltrow version? There were 2 in 96

[@veronicaleighauthor]

I haven't seen the first one you mentioned, or the latest adaptation, so I can't judge those. My favorite is the Gwyneth Paltrow/Jeremy Northam version. I loved their chemistry, and thought with the short amount of time available, the story was fully fleshed out. The 2009 version was good, especially with Romola Garai as Emma. She was such a fantastic Emma.

[@P.M.P.181]

I agree. Gwyneth was good but Jeremy completed her Emma. None of the others really get it right imo 🤷🏻

[@endlessevilinsanity]

YESS! Finally someone who favours the 2020 adaptation, and for all the reasons I favour it. Even in Jane Austen's beautiful novel, Knightley is such a surrogate parent/big brother, their end-romance makes me downright uncomfortable but in the 2020 movie I have no problem shippping them!

[@thehobbem]

Loooove this video, thank you for putting into words so well how and why these adaptations work (or don't work) so well! My favorite version will always be the 2009 one, for all the reasons you mentioned; I just wish it could've had 2020's Mr. Knightley XD (I really liked Johnny Lee Miller, but Johnny Flynn was stellar). The main reason why 2009 is my favorite is how Romola Garai single-handedly makes us root for Emma to better herself even at her worst. And that scene where Emma visits Miss Bates as an apology? *chef's kiss* Emma looks and sounds devastated and so regretful, and is, for what's probably the first time in the story, so genuinely KIND when she goes "you have friends in Highbury". This moment in the book is a fundamental beat in Emma's growth, and Romola Garai knocks it out of the park.

[@wietskewestbroek7678]

I love the adaptation with Kate Beckinsale from 1996. My absolute favourite. Also loved Prunella Scales as miss Bates. Perfection. Having said that I would love to see the one with Romola Garai. Seems very nice!

[@electraruby4078]

Wietske Westbroek Its my favourite too. IOVE Mr, Knightly, although there is something rather pervey about falling in love with the woman you've held in your arms as a baby.

[@cw1516]

Yesss! That’s my favorite, too!!!

[@Knappa22]

Agreed. A perfect cast

[@carolmeindl8973]

My favorite is the Kate Beckensale version. I think the entire cast perfectly chosen, especially the Frank Churchill and Mr Knightly and Harriet actors. But to own the truth, I have not yet seen the 2020 version.

[@beyourself2444]

Don't

[@flowerchickenhairsparkle6779]

@@beyourself2444 who are you to judge? What if someone wants to see 2020? You can advise someone not to watch it because in your personal opinion 2020 shouldn’t be watched, but you can’t straight out write ‘don’t,’

[@Izabela-ek5nh]

Same. My fav. Charming AND beautiful Emma. (The only one...) Mature and interesting and charming mr Knightley. Harriet was not as pretty as in the book. But Jane, miss Bates, mr Knightley, Frank Churchill - all greatly done. I can watch and watch :) Every other adaptation left me with some level of disgust. This one is almost perfect. :)

[@flowerchickenhairsparkle6779]

@@Izabela-ek5nh 2020 was a good film in its own right.

[@samhart4205]

Facts.

[@einahsirro1488]

This was interesting and you explained your reasoning very well. For myself, I prefer the 1996 Gwyneth Paltrow version first. I find the pacing to be just right, not too fast, not too slow, and so beautifully filmed. The lighting is always so warm and pretty. My 2nd place is the Romola, and the others are kind of a blur to me.

[@lema4198]

I finally found someone in the comments who agrees with me about the 1996 Gwyneth Paltrow version being first! Not sure that it's my fave because it was the first adaption of Emma I ever watched, but it's so lovely to me! I agree about the lighting being warm & pretty too! And I really loved the chemistry between that Emma & Knightley.

[@itsmeGeorgina]

Wholeheartedly agree! And in fact, the 2020 version stole both scenes AND inspiration from the Paltrow version, many times ,, they just added a tweek, which fell through on several occasions,,, no, Emma is not a comedy with circus charicators... and in the 2020 version they are... tiresome for people who hope for adaptations close to Austens original intent

[@cl5470]

@@itsmeGeorgina Emma is 100% meant to be a comedy. This is evident from the ridiculous father to the hilarious cast of characters and the constant witty banter. It is a comedy with a heart, but it is very much intended to be lighthearted.

[@cl5470]

@@itsmeGeorgina Austen's novels were gentle satires meant to point out some of the absurdity of the regency culture, especially as it pertained to marriage and courtship. In several of her novels, she goes out of her way to parody the dramatic and serious gothic romances of the 1790's (the books she grew up reading) and she does so with humor much of the time. For example, the story of Eliza Brandon would have read as a commentary on the tragic heroine of gothic romance novels and would have been taken a bit less seriously by contemporary readers than it is today. That scene is meant to show us that Colonel Brandon is a bit overly dramatic and "gothic" in his own way, making him a good match for the dramatic Marianne. It was not meant to be a commentary on the unfair treatment of women or anything serious like that. Austen was taking the mick out of old gothic tropes much of the time. That is not to say that Austen does not have serious moments or themes in the novels, but satire and lighthearted social commentary were very much the intention, especially in Emma. I'd go as far as to say that Emma is the most clear comedy and the lightest of the books. The character foibles are almost all humorous (Mr. Woodhouse is a hypochondriac, Ms. Bates is hilariously dull and boring, Mr. Elton is hilariously conceited, etc) and the stakes for characters are generally low. If Emma doesn't marry, she will be fine. The romance is simply the vehicle Austen uses to explore English regency era culture with humor.

[@liamroberts2576]

It’s been 2 years with my Favorite Emma adaptation I still cry watching it at multiple times, also a review without mentioning the nose bleed lmao! The first I’ve seen to not mention it. But Emma 2020 is in my top 5 favorite movies of all time currently and I love it a lot

[@ChildOfDarkDefiance]

Kate Beckinsale production is the best. Apparently that's a lonely opinion, but I'm okay with that.

[@allypat3002]

I agree. I think Kate's Emma is probably the one closest to what people in society wouldve behaved like without the drama of 'feelings'.....in those times propriety was of greatest importance...

[@iamemmamusic]

I feel like this version also made a point about the different classes- more so than any of the others. Like that scene with the servants putting the pillows beneath the party strawberry picking or when you see the servants carrying all the stuff up Box Hill. It’s subtle but something none of the other adaptations show.

[@Beruthiel45]

I also like her version.

[@laupoe1]

Her version is also my favorite, the fantasy sequences really helped explain Emma's naivete and the class-aware backdrop showcased the class distinctions between the characters that were so important to the matchmaking woes. Kate's box hill scene has not been topped yet imo.

[@elizabethashley42]

2009 is my favorite due to how much detail gets packed in, but Kate Beckinsdale was my first Emma and I just adore my her version so much.

[@darlenebarsalou4169]

You were way too harsh on the Kate Beckensale version. It was one of my favorites. I loved the Knightly in it too. Strongly disagree with you.

[@mayloo2137]

There was a scene with a pig in that adaptation that threw me off.

[@samhart4205]

The 1996 Kate Beckinsale version is the best. They captured the essence of the book so well, and even had the viewer guessing whether Mr Knightley and Emma would end up together. Mark Strong was the best Mr Knightley and Kate Beckinsale played an amazing Emma. Their personalities meshed beautifully and the societal norms and etiquette wasn't drowned out either. Beautiful.

[@cherylhulting1301]

I agree on all fronts, Sam. This version has always felt like it was the most honest and insightful version of Jane's book. It doesn't give a false sense of immediate growth for all the characters at the end either.

[@samhart4205]

@@cherylhulting1301 Yes! Exactly! The characters felt like real people and not caricatures that defended totally on overdressed satire. The characters were the stars of the story rather than the narrative. It's such a character driven production that you don't feel yanked around by the flow of the narrative. It's beautiful to watch Jane Austen's Emma in motion.

[@obsessivefangirl5055]

really tho? I literally cringed everytime Emma and Knightly had a scene together in this movie. Especially contrasting against the 2020 version and even the miniseries where I swooned everytime they had a scene together

[@samhart4205]

@@obsessivefangirl5055 That's your prerogative. I mean, Emma20 completely missed the point - Emma wasn't stupid just blind to Mr Knightley's love and devotion because he's so far removed as the romantic hero. Emma20 over romanticised the relationship to the point that it makes you question Emma's intelligence? Mr Knightley is a long suffering, angsty romantic partner for Emma it's obvious to everyone but her? Idk, one of the cornerstones of the dynamic was that the obvious change in their relationship/friendship was that it crept on everyone including Mr Knightley and every single character in the book. Despite being from Emma's pov, Emma20 still presented Mr Knightley as a jilted lover most of the movie, his reactions being in the same vein as say, Captain Wentworth and Mr Darcy. Emma20's Knightley seems a combination of all of Austen's popular heroes rather than the character Jane Austen wrote. Pretty movie but but not Jane Austen's Emma. The reason the 90's miniseries is disliked is because it's faithful to the book. Jane Austen herself claimed that Emma wasn't "likeable" as a character, I guess pre tweaks it's hard to sympathise or even like the story.

[@obsessivefangirl5055]

@@samhart4205 but I don't think Emma 2020 depicts Mr Knightley as a long suffering jilted lover? Like he only seems to catch real feelings for her after the dance, which is the standard for pretty much every adaptation, and also what Austen indicates. And yes, I do agree that Taylor Joy doesn't capture Austen's emma the way I'd say Romola Garai did. ATJ leans mostly into the snobby aspects of Emma's personality, and not enough of her sweetness and charm. However, I still love this meaner version of Emma, and the movie overall, though they do omit or change some key moments from the book. However that doesn't stop me from swooning over this version just because of the sheer chemistry. Compare that to Mark Strong and Kate Beckinsale's version and you'll see what I mean

[@siomhe8539]

Thanks for this! I haven’t seen the 2020 version but intend to watch it now. Jeremy Northam has always been my favorite Mr. Knightly, likely due to his ability to weave in the flirtation and the feeling that he was often somewhat amused at Emma’s bad behavior...as if he knew it was bad but he admired the wit with which it was done. I have frequently felt that if you took Knightly and Harriet from the Gwyneth Paltrow version and plugged them into the romola garai version...and honestly I thought Miss Bates was really well done in both versions, you’d have a great adaptation. So I agree with you 100%. I was hesitant to watch the 2020 version after seeing some disastrous attempts at Jen Austen adaptations made recently, but will watch on your recommendation.

[@cherylhulting1301]

Great observations about Jeremy Northam's interpretation! I'm not fond of the Paltrow version but Jeremy is my favorite Knightley, for all the reasons you listed. Even when he's disapproving you can see that he loves and admires her wit and her possibilities.

[@lizajane2971]

@@cherylhulting1301 He's my favorite too! He's exactly how I pictured Mr. Knightley when reading the book. So dreamy 😍