The Brilliance of Anne Elliot and Why Netflix's Persuasion Got it Wrong

Hello! Finally time for another video essay, this time on The Brilliance of Anne Elliot and Why Netflix's Persuasion Got it Wrong. I watched the new Netflix adaptation of Jane Austen's Persuasion and I had a lot of thoughts. Sources will be below.
0:00 - Intro
0:41 - What the adaptation got right
2:36 - Anachronisms for why?
4:25 - Everything Else Wrong
7:51 - Anne Elliot
15:33 - Breaking the Fourth Wall
18:20 - It Makes No Sense!?!
19:39 - Outro

[@shannonholland3185]

I can't believe you just called the second half of Wuthering Heights boring maybe you need to read it again it has such a sweet love story and an amazing ending

[@RoisinsReading]

It was a joke, the whole video is about Hollywood having to make things more "exciting" for no reason

[@shannonholland3185]

@@RoisinsReading ohh lol

[@carokat1111]

I detest Wuthering Heights. Such unlikeable characters.

[@imasinnerimasaint]

Two cousins, abused and isolated, getting married after their abuser finally dies does not equal a sweet love story.

[@shannonholland3185]

I mean to each their own but I enjoyed the story of a vain spoiled young woman who learns to see the good in an abused young man and helps him learn to read and educate himself. They fall in love which reminds Heathcliff of his own lost love and the futility of his revenge.

[@TheTwara]

Anne Eliot is one of the most self-sufficient heroines in Austen literature. And the book is about how a wise intelligent woman survives and finds love in a world where female wisdom is under appreciated.

[@9000ck]

Exactly; she is the most mature of Austen's heroines.

[@MrAhuapai]

It’s not about woman’s wisdom as such as that’s certainly not apparent in the demeanour of her own sisters Its more than Ann displays the age old virtues of humility and self effacement which are attributes that are at odds with the girl boss narcissism of contemporary culture.

[@snarkboojum9949]

She is actually “strong” woman in the book. Because “strong” woman is not the woman who beats her male counterparts with fists or give them a boring lectures about how she was dominated by them(hilariously, this is what Mary do in the book). Anne endures everything while trying to make things better for everyone. Austen said it herself in the book: “...the scenes on the Cobb and at Captain Harville's had fixed her SUPERIORITY”(in capt. Whentworth eyes).

[@logann-mackenziefroste563]

Is there only one way to interpreted Persuasion and Anne Elliot and other Jane Austen books ? And if there is how should one interpret and imagine Persuasion and Anne Elliot and the other Jane Austen books ? Please explain to me the proper way to interpret and imagine these characters.

[@snarkboojum9949]

@@logann-mackenziefroste563 What is to "interpret" there? It is a book, not a comics strip. Just read it - author written all of it already. All the characters words, deeds and thoughts are known(remember that "persuasion" is practically POV) and all of it - describes them as people. The better the author - more solid, opaque these people are, the least are left to imagination. Imaging that you written the book about serial apist, truly despicable human being. How he became this way, how he fallen even lower, and eventually how he was caught and punished. Imaging your book was used as basis for the film, but when you see it on the blue screen your main character presented as misundestood small man who do it because he "loved" children. How do you like this "interpretation" then? It is not an interpretation, it is another, completely different, piece of art(or crap). And that piece can be allowed to exist, of cause, but only if one of two condition is met: if author of said piece erase your name from it or he is more talented then you are. You see, when i go to the movies to see "interpretention" of the book i love, i expect to see visual representation of the characters from the book who repeats some parts(the more - the better) of brilliant dialogs from the book. I do not want to see representation of the current world view on the screen and hear words salad that written by imbecile who thinks that dialog between two people its when one person repeats the same phrase over and over again and the second repeats back the last word of the same phrase only with question mark.

[@kingoreo3642]

Admiral and Mrs Croft were dismissed in this film. I love them as a couple. They exemplify a deep, respectful, and long lasting relationship. They are what the captain and Anne can become.

[@RoisinsReading]

One of the few good marriages in Austen, a shame to waste them!

[@mausicute8804]

Totally agree with you

[@linasotothomas5982]

Seeing Admiral and Mrs Croft were part of what gave Ann proof that she could have the life she wanted. They exemplified a life together, thick and thin, with affection, humor and honesty. They were the Anti-Elliots and I was upset they just cut out their relationship.

[@AuntLoopy123]

I love, too, how they were so happy together, even though they didn't have children. Many people who want children would have been so GUTTED at not having any, that their marriage would break under the strain. It happens a LOT with infertile couples. But the Crofts clearly leaned on each other in their grief, found new joys in their lives, and embraced them, and moved on, together. Being an aunt and uncle, for example, fills them with joy! It's not as much as they wanted, but it's enough for them, because they MADE it enough for them. Together! And clearly, neither one even tried to lay blame about it. It was just, "Well, God hasn't blessed us with children. Oh, well. There's more to life than that." Really sticking together through thick and thin, indeed.

[@scottishflower8010]

There’s a part in the movie where wentworth tells Ann that what he likes about her is that she always speaks her mind. I screamed at the tv at that point. That incapsolates everything wrong with this version.

[@kohlinoor]

Ooooh and that part where he says "I've often asked myself what you would do when things go wrong" (something like that, anyway)... And claims she would have made a good navy admiral!! I appreciated the sentiment, but it was so out of place in the plot, and really ruined their feeble/nonexistent attempts to capture the essence of the novel.

[@RoisinsReading]

I think they just needed to give him something to do, otherwise he and Anne make no sense in the film

[@coloraturaElise]

@@RoisinsReading Yes, and clearly Henry Goulding figured that out and asked to switch parts....smart guy!

[@Nuneven]

@@RoisinsReading They should have given us some "Wentworth in the navy" footage to give him more depth and interest. Maybe a montage of his life at sea cut with Anne's experiences during the years they were apart? He was such a bland character in this movie, he could have used some Horatio Hornblower moments❤

[@hideyourloveaway128]

That whole talk that Anne and Wentworth had on the beach is the biggest load of BS ever. Again, did anyone involved in this movie actually crack a book and try reading the novel?? That whole conversation is completely and utterly out of character for both of them, and it completely destroyed the plot. If Anne and Wentworth had actually had a conversation like that so early on in the story, the whole thing would have been over. The tension would have been gone, all the misunderstandings would have been cleared up, and there would be a no obstacles left.

[@samrotman7503]

Persuasion with Amanda Root is the most realistic Austen adaptation. The sets are dark as they would be when lit by candles, the ceilings are liw, and Anne’s portrayal as the listening post is well done. I’m always amazed by the social restraints that prevent the Wentworth and Anne from expressing their feelings for so long. Anne is so blessed in her visits with her former classmate,, Mrs. Smith. It easy to not value the friendships of the less fortunate.

[@callawright8813]

Personally I really do love the 1995 version. It's a lil on the sentimental side but the casting to me feels SO spot on, exactly how I pictured everyone. Amanda Root in particular really shines. I love how you can see her trembling a little whenever she voices a firm opinion - it really feels like she gets Anne's shyness and insecurity but also her passion and competency.

[@sarahbabcock8188]

Agree about Amanda root !!!

[@AuntLoopy123]

I love the little touches, like grasping the chair, when she first sees Wenworth again, or the reaction when she hears that Mrs. Admiral's (sorry, can't remember their name) brother got married, only to discover she was talking about the curate. I like the way everyone got ready for dinner, taking so much care over their dress, and Anne just looked at herself, noted that she was clean and tidy, and went on with it. And then later, looking at herself, judgingly, saddened at the loss of her bloom, and then, when the sea air brought out her bloom again. I liked that Mr. Elton only gave her a simple look, but it was enough, and Wickham saw, and reacted. But in the Netflix film, they had to make such a production of that scene. 1995, with Amanda Root and Ciaran Hinds is my favorite Persuasion adaptation, especially because of these little touches.

[@Lily-ni5po]

Also I always kind of thought that Anne and Wentworth actually do share quite a lot in common with Darcy and Elizabeth. One is a charismatic extrovert who comes from a lower social position than their love interest. They are passionate, know what they want, and are secretly intensely romantic, but they also have quite a sense of pride and they will hold a grudge like nobody's business and find opportunities to dismiss the source of their ire in front of everyone without anybody truly noticing just for the petty pleasure of it. The other is a quiet introvert who found themselves with a lot of responsibilities from a young age after the death of a parent. They started playing parent to a younger sister. They come from elevated circumstances with close connections to nobility. They have a heart of gold and are extremely responsible. In an emergency, they will step up to try to fix everything for the people they love even if it means helping a rival. Obviously, there are differences between the two couples but they also share some commonalities, it's just that the gender are reversed. Anne is not a Lizzie. She shares a lot more in common with Darcy including her taste in partner.

[@chunellemariavictoriaespan8752]

OMG!!! NEVER REALIZED IT VERY WELL!!!

[@camjamcam1]

So well stated!

[@Bethi4WFH]

Over a long life I have read thousands of books and these two are my top favourites……..reread many times over the years. The point you raise has never occurred to me and I really appreciate your insight…….well done, and thank you!

[@KathelleStrandom]

Ah that is a brilliant insight! Thank you 😄

[@srkh8966]

Darcy is a gentleman and Lizzy is the daughter of a gentleman-so far they are equal.

[@AllTheArtsy]

I am so offended by the way they butchered Anne supposedly in the name of "modernity." They completely misunderstood her character and turned her into someone unrecognizable. The thought that someone shy, reserved, insecure, neglected and abused by her narcissitic father and sisters turning around to be this girlboss, one-line swinging, banter machine is absurd. Anne is not dull. But she is shy. She's more internal. She has suffered from constantly being bandied about by the more outgoing, large personalities in her life. But she is sweet, kind, and intelligent. She cares about the feelings of others. There is absolutely a way to make that character work- because I dare argue most people are like that, and not Fleabag, Emma or Lizzy. That's what it feels like they wanted. To adapt Persuasion, but with a different heroine- in which case the story fails, because Persuasion is only Persuasion because Anne is Anne. It's maddening!

[@missbingley6048]

Spot on.

[@sandraallisonhatcher270]

Perfect.

[@srkh8966]

Don’t take it so personally. I doubt the writers had even read the book

[@dostagirl9551]

It’s just such a disservice as we lack diversity in portrayals of lead women. Not everyone is a Girl Boss. I loved how Anne made a decision she regretted and later had the opportunity to reverse. I love her more quiet personal growth. Such a lost opportunity.

[@Nightman221k]

They turned her into an annoying wine-aunt with unnaturally quirky dialogue. She deserved so much better. I think a modern adaptation could easily have been done without massacring her personality.

[@marychocolatefairy]

I've always thought the Amanda Root version was pretty perfect. It was faithful while adding some small changes that enhanced the story rather than being outright stupid or ill-fitting. As you suggested, if the 2022 filmmakers wanted to make this story a modern comedy they should have gone the Clueless route.

[@kagomekirari25]

Yes, I agree wholeheartedly, I love the 1995 version so much

[@lisajohnson4744]

I loved Amanda Root and Ciarin Hinds! They were so perfect!

[@isabelleskiss]

The truly heroic is totally lost in Anne's character in this adaptation. The original story is somewhat reminiscent of Cinderella, a woman who stands in the shadows and who manages to maintain her inner dignity and poise despite receiving the message from those around her that she is irrelevant and unimportant. A strange idea of ​​the producers to want to "correct" the story of an author of Jane Austen's caliber. So, what's next? Shakespeare's "Macbath" as a comedy series? The stories of Mickey Mouse as family drama? A new adaptation of "The Sound of Music" as an erotic thriller?

[@RoisinsReading]

Not gonnna like id quite like to see a comedy Macbeth, if someone could pull it off. I love black humour

[@lovetolovefairytales]

Anne Elliot and Fanny Price are both very similar to Cinderella (that's what I like about them; I was so obsessed with Cinderella as a kid it's not even funny, I still will buy the most pathetic merch ever to this day if it's got Cinderella on it), unfortunately modern feminists are shrieking shrews who hate the traditional sweet Cinderella and want other girls to hate her too. Why do you think the shitty Amazon Cinderella got made? Same thing with this new Persuasion. It's a sad attempt by sad, stupid people to rewrite classic values.

[@isabelleskiss]

@@lovetolovefairytales Something else comes to mind on the subject of fairy tales: There are so many traditional Grimm fairy tales that have not been made into a film, in which women are the heroines who free their beloved man. For example, "The Goose Girl", "The Iron Oven", "The Clever Farmer's Daughter" and "The Six Swans" come to mind. "The Sterntaler" is also very touching. In these fairy tales, the women do not fight for good with swords and physical strength, they overcome evil through loyalty, wisdom and sacrifice. Strengths of character that we should value again.

[@TinaCBrown-yc5jn]

First of all the 1995 of version Persuasion with Amanda Root and Cirian Hinds is Superb.

[@aditi013]

Perhaps the adapters at Netflix found Anne to be "too" introverted for most people to understand. Worse enough, they didn't know how to adapt a character like her and decided to make her an extraverted person lol. It's just my take. The movie made me angry.

[@sarahbabcock8188]

Same here

[@karinrankin5871]

I've watched a few reviews, and I think the thing that irritates me the most (aside from feeling like changing Anne, then resulted in the whole movie not making any sense. I've never read the book, nor watched any adaptation of Persuasion and thought "Wentworth should stick with Louisa. She seems pretty solid") is that I always saw Anne as an empowered woman. She was quiet, but she gave her opinion...it's not her fault selfish people didn't listen to her. It feels like the writers/producers/director considered Anne to be wanting as a heroine, and so changed her into a generic "millennial girl boss". We've seen that...maybe show us how to be a "girl boss" while taking care of others and not being so...well, mean. This Anne is mean, and rude. As to the 4th wall breaking suggestion: they did that in the 2007 Persuasion, and it worked. It worked because we, as the audience, got to see what was happening like Austen's omnipotent narrator would describe through one look. And they did it without changing Anne's personality for the sake of being "relatable" A lot of us consider this their favorite Austen novel for many reasons, but the reason I liked it was because I've often felt like Anne. I want to be Lizzy, but I'm often Anne. This adaptation was offensive because it was like they were saying there is no place in the world for someone like Anne to be a heroine. Which felt like they were saying there is no place in the world for ME to be one either.

[@RoisinsReading]

As someone who is more a Lizzie/Emma/with a touch a Marianne type, I would still like a different heroine, making everyone the same is boring!

[@nehanagpal378]

I loved -I want to be Lizzy but I am often Anne…That’s so me😊

[@lizajane2971]

Well said! I feel like I vacillate between the two. When I'm with people who value me and whom I trust, I am Lizzie. When I'm treated rudely or ignored I tend to react like Anne. I also am offended that whoever wrote this film didn't think Anne as she was in the book would be relatable. Honestly, I'm so sick of those characters who say and do every fool thing that comes into their head and never apologize and then everything works out for them. That's not what happens for most people! Nor should it! People don't truly like people who only ever think about themselves! But it seems narcissism is so fashionable these days. 😑🙄

[@srkh8966]

@@RoisinsReading And you still have it, with both the 1995 and 2007 versions. At least you know it’s not Austen just by the trailer with this version, so you aren’t tricked into seeing it like the 2005 P &P

[@camjamcam1]

When I read your statement, " This adaptation was offensive because it was like they were saying there is no place in the world for someone like Anne to be a heroine. Which felt like they were saying there is no place in the world for ME to be one either," I started welling up! 😢

[@bruceg4366]

The 1995 Persuasion adaptation was wonderful!

[@jorgeneriksson3144]

2007 version was good. Have not watched the 95 version yet.

[@pmarkhill519]

Very poignant point: Anne had no one with whom she could be vulnerable. We read Austen to “know we’re not alone.”

[@komal146]

I am discovering sooo many talented youtubers because of this subpar movie.

[@RoisinsReading]

Thank you! At least that's one silver lining!

[@sarij3950]

Same! I'm really enjoying the discussions, makes me feel like there is a neck of KZbin for me as well 😃

[@mallorycarpinski1160]

Hahaha same!

[@reikun86]

Blessing in disguise. Speaking of talented KZbinrs, have you watched Rational Creatures? It's a modern adaptation of Persuasion.

[@lisabromley5764]

I agree! Anne and Wentworth were so against character it was jarring. And what they did to the letter scene was criminal. It was like they read a few book jackets and wrote the screen play off that. They missed the point of the story.

[@RoisinsReading]

I agree!

[@welthawood]

Persuasion is my favorite Austen novel and Anne Elliot is my favorite Austen heroine. And this adaptation is poorly done on every level.

[@laurahubbard6906]

I think, if you're going to modernize, you need to go all the way, as was done in "Clueless." And the pseudo-Regency costuming just makes matters worse.

[@chunellemariavictoriaespan8752]

Yeah... They should have... It would be FAR MORE interesting and far more easily ridden by audiences... Like how people observe introverts while breaking 4th wall being snarky and witty... Liking making her more than meets the eye...

[@wiikendii]

Well - but clueless worked bcs it had a reverse concept: they kept the character (rich girl, Emma as well as shy Herriette) just put the in to a 1990 school setting, and it worked extremly well. Here they changed the characters of the main character completly, so of course the story did not work. It would never work with other characters (they only kept the names, but those were not "Anne" and "Captain W."

[@rosamcdonald1221]

It's really sad that the secondary characters are so much better than the leads. I think that it's because the secondary characters are drawn from the book and written by Austen while the leads have been rewritten (poorly) by the screenwriters.

[@RoisinsReading]

it is a shame, the secondary characters were quite cartoonish but the actors did it well

[@AnotherJenn42]

Persuasion and Mansfield Park are my favorite of Jane Austen’s works. Anne and Fanny are so very different than what you would typically find in a heroine. They have strength of character because of their adversity and I love that. So many adaptions try to turn the heroine into Lizzy Bennet or a version of Jane Austen herself and it bothers me. I do love the 1997 version of Persuasion with Ciarán Hinds and Amanda Root. Definitely worth a watch.

[@Sharonmplus]

You took the words out of my mouth.

[@lovetolovefairytales]

Yeah I don't get the writers' choice to make Anne blurt out drunken confessions at the table; blurting inappropriate stuff out at a dinner is usually shown as a NEGATIVE in Austen's actual books. Lizzy at least was lady like about it, but regardless of what feminists like to say, I DON'T think we were MEANT to sympathize with Mary Crawford dissing her uncle and making gay jokes at the table. Austen's heroines tend to have more manners.

[@scottishflower8010]

Yah, not to mention she’s an alcoholic. Austin’s Anne an alcoholic? I don’t think so

[@SomeRPGFan]

It's like they accidentally adapted Bridge Jones' Diary to the regency era.

[@srkh8966]

Why would feminists want to sympathise with Mary Crawford?

[@rebeckaberg1086]

My child objected them trying to make Austen funny. According to them Austen is already funny why do they try to make her funny

[@lovetolovefairytales]

Your child is smart.

[@RoisinsReading]

You're right, Austen is funny. But many adaptations have failed to take her works that way

[@AllTheArtsy]

Trying to make Austen funny is like trying to make a diamond sparkly. It's redundant. But Austen's comedy is in the wit and irony, not the wink-wink-nudge-nudge brainrot "comedy" we sadly have today

[@danaslitlist1]

Exactly!! Austen has so many good one liners in each book!

[@tedmccarthy4761]

@@danaslitlist1 My favorite is from her juvenile story "Jack and Alice": "She has many rare and charming qualities, but Sobriety is not one of them."

[@srkh8966]

They don’t care about the book-they’re cashing in on Bridgerton

[@maryhodge2625]

You said that you did not think that a good adaptation had ever been made of persuasion. What about the 1995 version starring Amanda Root? I thought it captured Anne's character extremely well.

[@Seri99no]

I agree. The casting was delightful.

[@aro5490]

Yes absolutely beautifully rendered film

[@nickbigd]

Agree 100%

[@Druklet]

I've been waiting for someone to mention A Knight's Tale! My thoughts exactly. Thank you!

[@RoisinsReading]

Thank you!

[@viatrix03]

Yes, thank you! I really like AKT because it knows what it wants to be.

[@coloraturaElise]

Yours is the only review (and I've read/watched about 15 of them at this point) that mentioned Anne's other reasons for not marrying Wentworth, i.e. it would be easier for him to get on in his career without having a wife to worry about. You made so many good points about the abject failure of this movie, it encourages me to watch your other videos. Thank you!

[@dostagirl9551]

I love the 1995 film adaptation of Persuasion. As for the Netflix version, all I’ve seen are rundowns and clips and can already tell they’ve butchered Anne’s character. She’s nothing like the book version - in spirit, actions, or words.

[@nickbigd]

Agree on 1995 - excellent!

[@ashmeyer21]

If you were to pick a personality type off of the Meyer Briggs system to base Anne Elliott character , she should have been played as an INFJ. This personality closely matches how the character was written in the book 📖

[@jacquelinemcmenamin8204]

I watched the adaptation on Netflix. I’d seen the trailer but I hoped it couldn’t be that bad. I finally lost patience at the scene where Ann & Wentworth were on the beach. 1. Ann would not be unchaperoned 2. Wentworths make up was awful 3. Ann would not be swimming alone

[@RoisinsReading]

I know it was not very accurate that way, but I'm not well versed in the history enough to be exact. Plus like I said I enjoy Bridgeton despite the lack of historical accuracy because I feel like it builds its world well, just that world is not actual regency London

[@lucymitchell3045]

@@RoisinsReading I totally agree with the contrast with Bridgerton. Bridgerton is a modern story set in a pseudo regency world, but the internal logic of the world and that of the character motivations makes sense. Which all helps the audience to suspend disbelief and enjoy the ride! And the writing is so much better - no random talk of octopi!

[@scottishflower8010]

On number 1, to be fair, In the book at the end, Ann an Wentworth are in unchaperoned as they walk the streets of Bath revisiting everything that had happened

[@maryhamric]

@@scottishflower8010 They are because they have become engaged.

[@gisawslonim9716]

Ann would not be swimming at all!!!!

[@hikersteph]

Anne has always been the Austen heroine I relate to the most - her quiet strength, her kindness, her "listen more than talk" introvertedness, and her patience with people that suck sometimes make me feel seen. The way the movie took that and turned her into a wine-drinking, speak-your-mind girl boss made it hugely miss the mark for me. The whole point is that Wentworth comes back to her because he she has more depth and character than a "pick me girl".

[@misstweetypie1]

I appreciate how you mimicked the constant side looks in your video as they did in the movie ;)

[@jessicanorman6502]

Great review! The best part of the film was Birdy’s song at the end which capture the plot and character of Anne better than the entire film

[@colinthomasson3948]

just a thought...anyone who survived all those years in the Royal Navy at that time, let alone someone of humble origins who rose thriught the ranks to Captain, by sheer ability, and made his fortune ( by way of boarding killing and capturing enemy ships of the line ) would have been , by modern standards, an utterly ruthless, fearless brute who could eat alpha males for breakfast, and kill lesser men with a look... ...and claiming such a beast held no terrors for Anne, so both are off the scale of modern sensibilities

[@nurse0857]

I’m genuinely glad I chose not to watch this movie. Persuasion is my favorite Austen novel. Also I personally always loved Anne’s comment about how everything is written by men. I always picture Austen with a cheeky little grin when she wrote that one.

[@RoisinsReading]

Yes, that's what I meant when I said ironic, Austen loved to use irony

[@lizzytaylor1862]

Warning: this is very long but heartfelt, nevertheless - There is this kind of offensive Lizzy-Bennet-isation (to quote you) that swats aside any variation of strong female characters, purely due to the impact of modern feminism. It implies there is only one kind of strong female. I'm am a feminist but I have also found sanctuary in Anne Elliott's subdued, emotionally intelligent, introverted personality. Persuasion is by far my favourite Austen story, mostly because I finally discovered a relatable character that was just as (if not MORE) admirable and powerfully feminine as the overused "Lizzy Bennet" personality. While Jane Austen's most famous heroine is understandably beloved for these now cinematically common feminist traits, the production of new regency television like Bridgerton, leaves very little spotlight for beautifully intricate (and arguably more realistic) personalities like Anne. Many might discard Persuasion as it doesn't present such an openly society-shaking, unconventional woman for the time. Jane Austen, I believe was a "feminist". And I think Anne is her most subtle but CLEVEREST depiction of an unconventional woman. She has a feminine countenance, is quiet and was once persuadable and submissive, but her inner feelings and thoughts, speech about the endurance of love and sturdy reaction to the accident, show a stronger woman. She is clever, intelligent and capable. She can be admired by readers of the time, all while not even retaining her youth or beauty, which were considered very important in comparison to intelligence. These significant INNER feelings that MAKE her such an important feminist character in literature, could have been portrayed so perfectly by the Fleabag style. But I think it could only have worked if it was far more gentle and possibly not even needing dialogue - just meaningful looks. Gosh I didn't mean to write so much but I LOVE THIS CHARACTER, and I think the new film (while having a few good qualities) basically butchered the gorgeous work of art that is Anne Elliot.

[@hlkilner]

The one thing that has always made me perplexed in Persuation (the novel) is that at 27 Anne is considered an old maid and unlikely to ever marry, yet her sister Elizabeth is older and unmarried and yet still considered a catch.

[@RoisinsReading]

Her sister is an heiress and also considered more beautiful. Anne will not inherit and her "bloom" has faded

[@denisebacher5040]

Like you Persuasion is my favorite Austen novel. I truly love Anne as a character. Because despite what the screenwriters think she really IS a strong woman. While 1995 and 2007 weren’t great adaptations they are leaps and bounds over Netflix’ schlock.

[@sarahbabcock8188]

I couldn’t get beyond the trailer and five minutes of the movie. It looked embarrassingly ridiculous and dumb. And as a super Persuasion book fan, I felt like the creators were just exploiting Austen’s story and characters, not thoughtfully adapt it to film. Clearly the writers and director considered themselves more clever than Austen herself. Have managed to even avoid hate watching it bc I don’t want to support the damn thing. You make some good points in your comparison to other modernized adaptions like clueless! Your critique is the most thoughtful that I have seen and it is very satisfying. You tell ‘em!!!

[@ireneramos5119]

Well said. You've hit it on the nose. I love the way you laid out your points and I perked up heartily when you mentioned that the Anne in the Netflix version would have said "fuckit and run off with Wentworth to Gretna Green. " Because that is exactly what would have happened in that Universe. They trampled on a beloved character, because they felt the Anne from source material wasn't good enough or interesting enough. Then why chose this novel? You echo my feelings here. Thanks!

[@danaslitlist1]

So so glad I stumbled across your video and your channel! This video essay was so so in depth and loved the discussion (and your sass lol)

[@RoisinsReading]

Thank you so much!!

[@lovetolovefairytales]

Oh, yeah, I forget about Knight's tale! Great movie!

[@sandraallisonhatcher270]

You NAILED it. Perfect. I am super open minded about Austen adaptations and honestly I like them all! But this one was horrific. Absolutely offensive.

[@RoisinsReading]

It's not even a good film outside of an Austen adaptation!

[@angelageklittmark9772]

Absolutely agree! I knew I’d hate this adaptation as soon as I watched the trailer. And now I’m glad that I didn’t waste my time watching the movie.

[@RoisinsReading]

I had hope that the trailer was badly edited and it would be more clever than it seemed. It wasn't

[@michaelblaylock3773]

"Nobody can make the sacrifice of holding their tongue." Love it!

[@annabrewer4408]

I love how you break this down because I struggled so hard to explain why this new interpretation of Anne upset me so much that I shut the movie off at that dinner scene when Anne blurts out that Charles proposed to her first. I stopped watching there- half an hour in. But you've so eloquently explained why fans of Anne Elliot from the book would have such an issue with this and thank you! Next time I need to explain why I struggled with the movie I'm going to just send your video :D

[@RoisinsReading]

Thank you!

[@KitsyHD]

The 95 adaptation is pretty good!

[@RoisinsReading]

I haven't seen it in years but this comment section makes me think I need to revisit it

[@KitsyHD]

@@RoisinsReading it’s a bit dated and almost too faithful to the text but it’s my preferred one for sure!

[@treeloversdaughter]

I had all the same thoughts you had, but could not have put them so eloquently. Thank you!

[@peachwalls]

I’ve watched many videos dissecting where persuasion went wrong but this one is the best and makes the most convincing nuanced points. Excellent!

[@lovetolovefairytales]

I've seen at least three wuthering heights films that cover the second half of the book. And it is not BORING! I love Cathy's daughter and her love interest.

[@emilyrobbins6315]

I have yet to see an adaption do this in a way that held my interest but I think it’s an absolutely vital part of the book. This is an oversimplification, but the second half illuminates Heathcliff’s character, introduces themes of generational trauma (to use an anachronistic phrase to describe it) and sort of fleshes out a whole argument about human nature. So I’d really love to see a good dramatization of it! Which versions have you seen that you think do it well?

[@XxMCRroxnonstopxX]

The Tom Hardy one covers the second half of the book I'm pretty sure. It's the only version I've seen and I haven't read the book in awhile 😅

[@lovetolovefairytales]

@@XxMCRroxnonstopxX what about the 1998 one with Mr. Darcy as Hareton? That covers the whole book, too. Though in many ways I think I prefer the Hardy version.

[@XxMCRroxnonstopxX]

@@lovetolovefairytales I have no idea as I said I've only seen the Tom Hardy one

[@heathernewbold406]

You explained Anne’s true character so well!

[@RoisinsReading]

Thank you!

[@tammygant4216]

Very insightful. In fact, you kickstarted my semi-annualish re-reading of Persuasion. You made me want to go back and dig into it again. Anne is my favorite or 2nd favorite (it fluctuates a bit) Austen character. I would be interested in your opinions on the 1995 adaptation (Maybe you've already done it. This is my first time ever seeing your channel). Again, very thoughtful video essay.

[@LinaGuadagnuolo63]

This is a trainwreck as an adaptation. It was as if the characters were in different movies, different time periods, different planets. The chemistry between characters was so problematic that I felt Anne should have fallen in love and become engaged to Mr Elliot not Wentworth.

[@RoisinsReading]

Mr Elliot in this adaptation was definitely the better choice. Wentworth was a cold fish

[@songsayswhat]

Anne could have kept a diary with narration so the audience could know her inner thoughts and turmoil. This adaptation (and I it's almost in name only at that) did a huge diservice to its audience. Viewers aren't stupid despite the fact that movie studios think we are. Also, why is it that there can only be one type of "acceptable" modern woman? That's an ideal as difficult for women to achieve every bit as much as the perfectly coifed and bodily toned physical ideal. The world is full of introverts and those who quietly do what needs to be done without any thanks. A true rendition of Anne's character would have resonated with those viewers. I mean, my god, people loved Castaway, and most of that was with very little dialogue.

[@hellsjamfleas]

The BBC series from the 2000s did that quite effectively. They seem to have wanted her to be a catty, bold character for some reason rather than introspective and unsure. I assume they felt it wasn't in-line with modern feminism to show a woman expressing vulnerability and insecurity, which seems very misguided to me, along with a load of cringe dialogue where people flatter her unnaturally, a bit pathetically and totally out of line with their eras culture.

[@juliamacdonald3767]

Good job, great analysis. Definitely post the Mrs. Bennet vid.

[@susanmaxwell6033]

IMHO the 1995 is the best version. Amanda Root plays Anne as I think Anne should be played. And Ciaran Hinds is a worthy foil. This latest one got off on the wrong footing with dreadful casting and never recovers.

[@ruth4376]

I just love A) you called Wuthering Heights boring (thankyou!) and B) your love of A Knight's Tale. Definitely subscribing :D

[@missbingley6048]

1995 Adaptation is my favourite.

[@RoisinsReading]

I haven't watched it in years, maybe I need to watch it again

[@missbingley6048]

@@RoisinsReading Available on KZbin. I watched it the other day to comfort myself and to remind me of Anne Elliot's character as written by Jane Austen. Also to see Mrs Smith, important character ignored by the new Movie

[@rosezingleman5007]

Very good analysis of Anne Eliot and “Persuasion.” It, and “Mansfield Park” are my favorite Austen novels. I do think the version with Amanda Root is very good though. The best way to appreciate Dear Jane is to read the books and not to hope for the impossible in film versions.

[@datdame]

Brilliant analytical critique. Very well done.

[@RoisinsReading]

Thank you!

[@Hollis_has_questions]

Thank you for this excellent sardonic diatribe. So many Austen adaptations make me at least a little angry (Jennifer Ehle’s eye rolling, e.g.). The 1995 Persuasion, with Amanda Root and Ciarán Hinds and in fact every character perfectly cast - Sophie Thompson’s Mary is hilariously wonderful - is so well done, so true to Jane’s intentions. You are right to use Clueless as an example of an Austen adaptation that keeps her Emma true to her intentions … As IF!

[@camjamcam1]

I was enchanted by the 1995 "Persuasion" film you mentioned, and the 2006 one with Sally Hawkins.

[@Seri99no]

I agree with you about the 1995 version and it's casting. Plus Sophie Thompson's portrayal of Mary was delightful; by playing the character seriously, she was far funnier than any over the top interpretation. Jane Austen's brilliance lay in her ability to capture the absurdities of everyday life and allow these follies to speak for themselves, I think Sophie Thompson encapsulated this in Emma as well. She would make a wonderful Mrs Bennett.

[@Hollis_has_questions]

@@Seri99no You’re right! I’d forgotten about Sophie Thompson in Emma. Yes, she was terrific. I have to admit that Emma is about fifth on my favorites list, after Mansfield Park, Persuasion, Sense and Sensibility, and Pride and Prejudice. I can see Sophie Thompson’s poor nerves clear as day. The Emma Thompson 1995 S&S? - I hate it! She has Hugh Grant playing Edward Ferrars as a bumbling Hugh Grant and gives Margaret WAY too much time, while eliminating Ann Steele completely. Much as I love Alan Rickman, he was wrongly cast as Col. Brandon; he really DID seem too old for Marianne, just as Thompson was too old to play Elinor. I much prefer the 1981 S&S.

[@Seri99no]

@@Hollis_has_questions I also prefer the 1981 version of Sense and Sensibilities over the film. Emma Thompson's character was too emotional with the hysterical outburst, Hugh Grant being bumbling made the character seem unappealing and weak and yes, I can agree about Alan Rickman. I think modern day sensibilities are better applied to modern versions of the story rather than the costume drama.

[@srkh8966]

@@Hollis_has_questions It was a 2 hour film.

[@asdabir]

Roisin, (slightly unrelated to the topic) in this sea of Jane Austen fans and commentators on KZbin, all wonderful in their own right, I have found in you someone who gets Jane Austen in the same specific way that I do and that have given me so much joy and validation.

[@RoisinsReading]

Thank you! I'm glad you think so

[@mildredrambles6337]

I was excited for Persuasion to finally get its due with a mainstream movie and for others to experience Anne's quiet strength. What a disappointment to see her character not only changed but also undermined and dismissed as irrelevant. Your analysis nails why this movie sits in a sort of uncanny valley for me: neither sincere enough to be a faithful adaptation, nor bold and spirited enough to be the 'modern and witty' take it professed to be. (And yet completely allowing me to appreciate the side characters, particularly Mary and Richard E. Grant's Sir Walter.) Think I'll take a cue from your video and go rewatch A Knight's Tale.

[@tips22]

I haven't read persuasion, but I want to now, and I certainly want to watch your proposed version!

[@RoisinsReading]

Thank you! If only I had a Hollywood budget!

[@cheri-gh6jc]

You should really read Persuasion, there is a reason why it is a Classic. I've always said "the older I get them move I love Persuasion" it is understated, yet really complicated and true to life, in a very good way.

[@carokat1111]

My favourite Austen film is the 1995 Persuasion starring Amanda Root and Cairan Hinds. Highly recommend it.

[@pancakeenthusiast]

I agree with pretty much everything you said here. I did enjoy the movie, but I decided to view it as its own thing.. not really as a version of Persuasion.

[@MrJas321]

How does one dance "alone in my room with a bottle of red" to Beethoven when there's no such thing as recorded music yet? This "adaptation" was a complete abomination. That was NOT Anne Elliot.

[@RoisinsReading]

Maybe she's dancing while playing the piano like elton john

[@SarahBattersby_HappyMedusa]

@@RoisinsReading 🤪

[@ProfreshionalLifeBeyond]

I enjoyed your analysis. Thank you. Best wsihes.

[@zbr76]

From what I've seen and heard about Persuasion '22, you're spot on. Why make every contemplative heroine in literature into Lizzie Bennet? "Quiet" protagonists can be done well - Perks of Being a Wallflower and Free Guy are good examples. Just a pity that those two I mentioned have male protagonists. What happened to subtlety in the writing of an intelligent woman?

[@RoisinsReading]

It's hard for me to think of a well written quite woman in film or television, but then I'm not a film buff or expert so I'm sure there are some I've just missed. I think we went from drippy damsel in distress to girl boss in mainstream tv and film without space for someone quiet. Even in films with brilliant well written complicated women, the quieter more introspective side is hard to find

[@eamonndeane587]

The Second Half of Wuthering Heights is covered in the 1992 Juliette Binoche Film Adaptation and the 2009 Tom Hardy Miniseries adaptation (my favourite Adaptation of the novel).

[@suzihoude]

unpopular opinion, i guess, but my husband and i really enjoyed this movie. granted, we haven't read the book, but we've seen other adaptations of Persuasion. I enjoyed the breaking of the 4th wall as a way to let us into Anne's inner monologue -- it was a more personal feel than having narration, and let you get the sense that she kept a lot of things to herself, since she shared most of her thoughts with the audience and not with any characters within the story. i did not at all think that she was portrayed like lizzy bennett -- lizzy is so confident, quick-witted, and uninhibited by the opinions of others, while this version of Anne was in her own world, awkward, and mindful of others. the few moments where Anne speaks out, you can tell she's horrified at herself. i thought it was a modern example of an introverted woman who has her hopes and dreams but feels a whole lot of pressure to make everyone else happy.

[@chrischanona7541]

There have been a couple of great adaptations for tv. Especially by the bbc with Ciaran Hinds as Wentworth and a Jane Austen lookalike as Anne Elliot

[@katycollie7952]

100000% You put words to my frustrations!

[@gracesblythe]

Completely on point, as usual!

[@RoisinsReading]

Thank you

[@wandamercer6964]

Excellent analysis!

[@RoisinsReading]

Thank you!

[@kevinrussell1144]

Well said. And I include no winks or nods.

[@iris5304]

Love this video. Thank you.

[@camjamcam1]

Thank-you for this learned, astute video essay. I agree with your assessment. Other film adaptations of "Persuasion," such as the one starring Sally Hawkins from 2006, made me root for the character because of her quite depth. I was engrossed by the story. The Netflix adaptation was jarring and I had to take a few runs at in in order to finish watching it. Your "rusty" is golden, Roisin.

[@RoisinsReading]

Thank you!

[@camjamcam1]

@@RoisinsReading You're so welcome!

[@everausten]

Excellent points! Subscribed! 💛🌙🌟✨

[@RoisinsReading]

🌟😊✨

[@resurrectionevil6581]

netflix, all you gotta know. They ruined all of our video game adaptations, manga/anime, and already existing IPs. I'm not the least bit shocked by this news. It does give me reassurance that they aren't just doing it to video game content or geek culture stuff in general just to "get back at us". they just suck at writing and making shows.

[@RoisinsReading]

There are a few shows i love that are Netflix exclusives, but they didn't do this one. I would say Jane Austen is probably quite "Geeky" too, just a different type of geek!

[@resurrectionevil6581]

@@RoisinsReading true! It's a classic. You can't mess with it. I love 2 versions of pride and prejudice (the 90s one which was closer to the book and the one with Kira knightly) and if anyone messed with them or try doing a new one like netflix, I'd smack them.

[@XxMCRroxnonstopxX]

The travesty that is Netflix's Death Note 😭😱 completely destroyed it. Even the Shadow and Bone series where they've show horned in characters from the spin off series even though it makes not sense and screws up the time line. I could go on but I'm sure you get it.

[@ginnieliebherr4245]

Your last point! Put into words exactly how i feel about the movie.

[@RoisinsReading]

Thank you!

[@harrietpotter649]

The 1998 adaptation of Wuthering Heights covers the second half of the book, iirc. Weirdly, it also features Darcy from the 2005 version of Pride and Prejudice (Matthew MacFadyen) in a prominent role.

[@vivianblack2951]

I couldn't even make it 20 seconds into the trailer...

You _persuade_ someone when you talk them into doing something they wouldn't do otherwise. It's a matter of subtlety and often making them think they're doing it on their own. If everything has the subtlety of a punch in the face, then there's no persuasion.

[@lisajohnson4744]

Or how about the Pride and Prejudice with Kiera Knightly? 🤢 The dialogue in that one was weirdly back and forth from Austen to Century 21 too!

[@nancykorensek4083]

Thanks for saving my time. I think I'll pass on this adaptation.

[@ghoularty2030]

While I enjoyed the secondary characters, I still can’t believe we lost out on the Sarah Snook/Joel Fry adaptation for this.

[@RoisinsReading]

Yes, I don't know those actors at all but in the battle of the Persuasions, it's a shame this one won

[@barbaraludwiczak4728]

Excuse me, but didn't Wuthering Heights (1992) cover the second part of the novel?

[@Lily-ni5po]

By your comment, I am guessing you never watched the Wuthering Heights mini-series starring Tom Hardy and his wife in the main roles. Best adaptation I have seen yet. Hardy is perfect for Heathcliff and the chemistry with Catherine is through the roof (which makes sense considering). You have to give it a try.

[@meameowmewmew]

Omg Tom Hardy played Heathcliff? How have I never heard of this 😭 brb binging this asap lol

[@XxMCRroxnonstopxX]

That's the only version I've seen! I liked it. Linton is played by the guy from the walking dead... Andrew Lincoln?

[@sondraturnbull]

Yes! To the whole of your commentary. Perfectly critiqued. I haven't been able to bring myself to watch the Netflix debacle. After my initial excitement upon hearing it was coming and subsequent confusion when watching the trailer, I actually wondered if they had mis-titled the movie, because this was not Persuasion. My sister and I joked that if we were to watch it, we'd have to persuade ourselves that this was an entirely different story to get any kind of pleasure from the viewing. Sounds like that might be an impossibility and the movie is just not a good one.

[@twilajohnson2313]

Thank you 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@annabodhi38]

It never should have been call persuasion, I mean let's be real, lol. I loved the 1995 version, didn't care for the Sally Hawkins one and as I said this latest one with Dakota should have been called something else. Thank you for the video.

[@eneevankessel3000]

1995 is a beautiful version!

[@annabodhi38]

@@eneevankessel3000 Yes! That's when I discovered Amanda Root and Ciaran Hinds I have been a fan ever since. The scene where they are at the Musgroves having tea and everyone is telling Anne their problems and expecting her to fix them, lol. Yes, I love that film. Have a great weekend!

[@vadalia3860]

I was thinking of how a more true-to-the-source heroine could be pulled off in modern times and I think the best way to do it would be to make her visibly disabled in some way (most obvious would be vision impaired, deaf/HoH, or a wheelchair user) It's unfortunately all too common for the voices of disabled people in society to be ignored, just like Anne is ignored, and that feeling of being isolated & not having anyone who understands to confide in rings true in both cases as well. The ending would also I think evoke similar feelings of gratification to see (in the original) Anne competently take charge as a woman vs (in this hypothetical remake) Anne as a disabled person counter the idea that having disabilities makes one "helpless" or in need of rescue by taking charge the same way.

[@TheTwara]

Thanks

[@judiemeierfranz4329]

I thought your video essay was great - clear and concise. I think if these people were determined to make a superficial rather shady version they could've gone all out. For example all the real actors the same but they're playing an Austen character playing an Austen character - Lucy Steele, the Crawfords, Mrs. Elton, Lydia Bennett Wickham....actors playing those characters playing characters in Persuasion. Pretend it's directed by Mr. Elton and Mr. Collins produced by Lady Catherine de Bourgh.... Mrs. Elton cast in the lead as Anne Elliot by her husband of course could talk to her "cara sposo" instead of the camera....(besides I could buy her as a closet alcoholic). 😉

[@lady14bug]

See, now THIS I would watch and enjoy the cringe! But they'd have to do it during a house party in a storm, hoping that Lord Bertram didn't have reason to stop by 🤣

[@user-zv9zp7ik5k]

Thank you for saving me from seeing this movie! I knew the tone and portrayal of Anne just wasn't right, but I didn't want to dismiss it if I hadn't seen it. You've saved so much frustration! Also, love your comment about the feminist flattening of protagonists nowadays.

[@RoisinsReading]

I mean to clarify I don't think it's feminists flattening female characters, I feel like it's a misunderstanding of a specific brand of liberal feminism which films are trying to cater to but in the end make everyone the same character and so still perpetuate the idea that there's one right way to be a woman.

[@sarahb208]

can we talk about the fact that mrs. Smith was just dropped from the entire movie?!

[@RoisinsReading]

I know, I don't think it would have worked with their new Anne but it is a shame

[@bevkaufman7335]

Ciaran Hinds was an excellent Wentworth.

[@OmnivorousReader]

Very much enjoyed this review. Persuasion is a brilliant book and so subtle! It is hard to believe someone felt justified in basically s***ing all over that subtlety and craftsmanship. I could not even make it all the way through the preview of this travesty, so I am just watching the reviews instead.

[@kevin7mckinney]

Nailed it!!!

[@candicabral3767]

Personally I believe they make these adaptations because they don't believe their audience could understand the complexities of the original. So basically they're just dumbing it down. Personally, I prefer the original.