Book vs. Movie: Emma (1996, 1997, 2009, 2020)
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- čas přidán 22. 07. 2024
- Emma by Jane Austen, charming, clever, and wise. First published in three volumes in 1815, it is noteworthy for its distinctive style and character development. Emma revolves around social status and marriage in a subtle satirization of English high society mores. Contrary to Austen’s belief about her unlikable heroine, Emma Woodhouse has been a beloved literary character for generations. There have been over a dozen adaptations of Emma, from musicals to modern-day reimaginings. In this video, we look at four recent traditional adaptations of this iconic novel.
Emma (1996)
Starring Gwyneth Paltrow
Emma (1996/1997)
Starring Kate Beckinsale
Emma (2009)
Starring Romola Garai
Emma. (2020)
Starring Anya Taylor-Joy
Chapters:
0:00 Prologue
0:41 Emma (1996)
2:24 Emma (1996/1997)
4:14 Emma (2009)
5:54 Emma. (2020)
7:17 Epilogue
#BytheBook #Emma - Krátké a kreslené filmy
I loved the 2020 version. Some people felt this Emma was too unlikeable, but that is part of why I loved it. I felt like this one leaned in to Emma's pretensions and her belief that she knows best in a way that other adaptations have shied away from. When I read the book, I was so angry at Emma for the way she stuck her nose in Harriet's business and was snobbish in her other relationships. But she is redeemed as she realizes her errors, both in the book and in the 2020 film. She feels like she has actually grown and learned in this one, and the happy ending feels richer because of it.
I also really liked the glimpses we get of the servants in the 2020 film. It kind of highlights the absurdity of these rich people living their silly lives, and all the while there are these poor servants witnessing the whole thing. It made the wealthy characters seem more human and vulnerable, to see them in these moments where there's somebody having to help them get dressed or bathed, or fight off imaginary drafts for Mr. Woodhouse, or awkwardly walk in on Mr. Knightley sulking on the floor after the ball.
I also felt like Emma and Knightley had the most chemistry in this one, which helped me enjoy their relationship more. What with the age gap and Knightley's paternalistic attitude toward Emma, I always found their relationship a little less than steamy, but in this one the attraction was obvious.
I agree with all these points!
I remember enjoying Emma as a charmingly flawed heroine when I first read the novel in middle school, but upon returning to it as an adult, I found her to be, in so many instances, manipulative and unbearably snobbish, and her conduct often inexcusable, to an extent I hadn't the first time - it really drove home how much one's moral outlook can evolve as they get older. I still enjoyed the novel because Austen's narration obviously gives you room to disapprove of Emma, and the character isn't _completely_ irredeemable, but I appreciate that the 2020 adaptation didn't shy away from her ugliness (while the apparent youthfulness of Anya Taylor-Joy - faithful to the source material - reinforces that she still has growing up to do).
And I also like the conspicuous emphasis on class you mentioned (especially those two manservants who always seemed to be wearing 'kill me now' expressions, lol), and how Emma's primary character flaws - created or exacerbated by an upbringing where she always got her away - are shown to be a direct result of this class system rather than simply having an overindulgent father and governess.
The 2020 one is Sooooo beautiful to look at! Bright, beautiful and much prettier! I like the actors better too.
100% agree with you! I watched the movie twice, i was actually shocked that it's so good bcs i didn't get excited when i first watched the trailer. And I'm such a Mr. Darcy fan but i think i like Mr. Knightley more now. Their chemistry is so good! Especially in the dance scene, ugh! the sexual tension.. I love them so much i got so giddy the moment they realized they love each other 😭💕
@@gingersnapzz my favorite version is the 2009 Version. I haven't seen the 2020 Version yet.
Absolutely agreee
A lot of people hated the nosebleed, but it was one of the best scenes for me! People see Austen's world as this perfect, mannerly paradise. However, these characters were only human, therefore they had human bodies, and often un-pretty things happen to them! A lovely, comedic addition to an already hilarious film!
Elle Hansen Emma was always meant to be a comedy. I thought there were a lot of sweet little jokes but I absolutely hated the scene with the baby pooping. It was pretty cheap.
@@0rluh I didn't like that scene very much either, but the nosebleed was comedic perfection imho.
For me this moment is about pressure of your own expectations. She had a plan and she thought that she is smart enough, even can foresee but she is not. And she is just broke under this pressure. But still it's fanny.
Orla baby pooping? I had thought the baby spit up in that scene. lmao
I heard that the actress actually had a nose bleed while filming and they just left it in. But i don't know if that is true. I could relate to it because i can also get a nose bleed when i am stressed.
For myself, the 2009 version and 2020 version are my favorites for sure. I love the 2009 version because it was able to expand upon the novel so well and I truly loved all the characters and felt that they were showcased properly. I love both Emma and Mr. Knightley, but i truly loved Frank and Jane’s storyline that I felt was lacking in the 2020 film. However, other than that I have to say the 2020 film captured my heart. I loved the exaggerated humor, and the satire presented throughout the film because Emma is supposed to be a comedy. I loved Mr. Woodhouse and his screens and the bickering between Emma and Mr. Knightley. People say that they didn’t like this Emma because her character was made to be unlikable but when writing Emma, Austen wanted to make a protagonist that no one would like but her, and it’s for good reason! (even though I love her with my entire heart) While this Emma is supposed to be unlikable, in the end her character is much more redeemed through her character arc and becomes deserving of her end. I’ve also seen people saying that Johnny Flynn, who played Mr. Knightley, was too young and he didn’t fit the role but I couldn’t disagree more! First off, he is the same age as Mr. Knightley is in the novel (he just has amazing genes) and he made the character of Mr. Knightley much more vulnerable and emotional than I’ve seen before, and this new characterization of Mr. Knightley brought so much depth to his character. With his glistening eyes, the passionate stares he would give to Emma, his breakdown in his home after the ball....it transformed Mr. Knightley for me and I couldn’t get enough!! As for the proposal scene, while the nose bleed surprised me, it also made me see this favorite scene of mine transformed into something brilliant with humor, passion, vulnerability, imperfection, love along with being realistic! We see Emma’s character growth of putting herself outside of this ideal perfection she’s been accustomed to showcasing her whole life and she’s openly vulnerable and breaks down in front of Mr. Knightley, letting him see her not for the person who would never admit they were wrong or imperfect, but instead as a person who can openly admit their flaws and misjudgments. She lets out all the flaws, emotions and realness of who she is and it’s beautiful. She puts Harriet first, even though this is her moment to claim with Mr. Knightley, and she goes to her friend whom she truly cares for and in the end she and Mr. Knightley deserve one another. I’m so sorry for my essay lmao I just feel so passionately about the 2020 film, it’s for sure in my top 5 Jane Austen adaptations of all time
Elizabeth Very well said!
Elizabeth you took the words right off of my mouth! Couldn’t agree more!
Totally agree with you !
I watched Emma two weeks ago and I still can’t stop thinking about it.
I used to be a fan of Lizzie and hated Emma
Until I watched the 2009 version (and understood Clueless was based on Emma lol). I fell in love with her honesty. I dare say Emma is the most human character of Jane Austen and her flaws makes her amazing. She was silly, but a kindhearted type of silly. The 2020 version explored her silliness and I just LOVED. Your essay is amazing and I agree 100% with it
I couldn't get it into words so well, because I'm no nativ english speaker. But your words express exactly my feelings about the 2020 version of EMMA! I love it!
I'm totally in love with the 2009 version. It's perfect. The ending with Mr Knightley bringing Emma to the seaside was so heart-melting
Concordo plenamente com você! Esta versão de 2009 é de fato a Emma do livro. Assim como a versão de orgulho e Preconceito de 1995 (seis episódios) para mim, também representa a melhor versão deste livro.
Me too
Same here....2009 Emma is my favorite too.
I adore the 2020 Mr Knightley. He’s a lovely modern take on maleness. I really enjoyed the 2020 Emm for its costumes as well. Gorgeous. I saw bits an pieces of the others but each focuses on different views of how to tell Emma and I enjoy them all. Clueless will always be a favorite
For me, the 2009 BBC version is definitely the best. It was the first one I watched and actually led to me reading the book ❤️
The same 👌
Same x2
The 2009 is my favorite cause it's 4 Hours long and covers a lot that's In the book. I haven't seen the 2020 Version.
Watched the 2020 version 1 hour ago ... not bad but - on my opinion - can’t reach the 2009 version ❤️❤️❤️
100% I've seen it 4 times and still love it. It has the best mr knightly and takes enough time to tell the whole story.
the 1996 version did it for me. I love Mark Strong's portrayal of Knightley.
i think the 1997 version has the most accurate miss bates scene, in that emma only thinks it’s slightly funny after, but the atmosphere is clear that it wasn’t, and she sorta feels awkward
I think the minor changes to the 2020 version were actually brilliant. I loved seeing Knightley frustrated enough to have a meltdown over Emma (complete with ripping his clothes off and lying on the floor like a drama queen - because lets be real, if you're in love with Emma, a part of you is definitely in love with the drama), I loved the dance scene which felt far more intimate and full of longing, and I love how Knightley and Emma both realise their attraction to each other post-dance.
I think out of all the versions, the 2020 one will be the one that will stand the testament of time. Not only because of the aesthetics, but because how it offers a different perspective of Regency masculinity, how it never shies away from addressing the class structure, and how it satirises the who concept of perfect regency society.
Although I have say, why haven't any of these adaptations included some wonderful scenes in the book? Like the one where Emma, Mrs Weston, Miss Smith and Frank Churchill are all at Miss Bates' house inspecting the piano and Miss Bates sees Knightly on horseback and she calls for him to come up saying Emma is there and he considers coming for 5 minutes only to reject the idea entirely when Miss Bates goes on to say Frank is also there. Petty, jealous Knightly is so much fun.
Or the scene where the two Knightley brothers tease Emma about how she'll have no time to care for her nephews because her social life is so busy and she gets so indignant over their teasing and says she'll always have time for them? That scene showed just how much she cares for her family.
Or the scene where Emma lets Knightley read the letter Frank wrote to Mrs Weston explaining his behaviour and Knightley makes snide comments the whole time he is reading it. Emma is fondly indulgent and it's hilarious!
I wish these adaptations would include more of the little details instead of just hitting the expected beats.
The 2009 version had the piano inspection scene, though.
@@theartapprentice1036 True...but I prefer the book version of that scene more because he doesn't actually come up to inspect the piano at all. He's so annoyed at the idea of Emma and Frank together that he rides off in a huff. Imo it makes for a funnier scene.
oh my god you spoke my mind. And the scene when John Knightley went passive aggressive over Mr.Woodhouse, so Emma and Mr.Knightley quietly fixed the situation like a team. Or the conversation between Jane and John when she walked in the rain to the post office which was so wholesome!
man I love long comments on topics I care about, makes me feel good that there are others like me.
I haven't been able to watch Emma 2020 yet, truly can't wait. Can anyone tell me EXACTLY what happened that made Knightley take his clothes off and lie down on the floor like that?
Also, totally agreed on them possible adding in more book scenes in the future adaptations. I DID love the piano and violin scenes here.
@@Missmethinksalot1 Knightly took his coat off in a fluster because he thought Emma liked Frank. After the dance, he ran (ran!) to Emma's house and Emma seeing this came down and they were just about to talk when Frank came rushing in carrying Harriet (after she got attacked by gypsies). When they laid down Harriet, she whispered to Emma that she had fallen in love again and Emma thought she meant Frank and not Knightley so when both guys were about to leave, she asked Frank to stay. This confused Knightley because he thought he and Emma had a moment when they danced so he goes back to Donwell in a huff and becomes so frustrated that he dramatically tears off his coat and starts to lie on the floor. It's all quite charming and hilarious. And extra. So very extra.
2009 mini series.
Jonny Lee Miller has been the best Mr Knightly and the 2009 is my favorite.
Agree!
me too
Agree! I love his line about Mr. Elton being so full of himself it’s surprising he doesn’t fall off his horse.
Versión 2009 is my favorite
Absolutely. He is Mr. Knightley.
I think I have the same opinion here as I did with Pride and Prejudice. Miniseries are the best medium for book adaptions and usually manage to stay closest to the book, thus the 09 version definitely has a place in my heart. However, just like 05 P&P, 2020 Emma was a great experience as a movie. The costumes were marvelous and I loved every second of it. Of course a movie won't be as close to the book as a miniseries, but I think they did the best with the medium they had. Also, especially with books that have been adapted several times (and have several already beloved adaptions), I genuinely love it when new adaptions bring something new and fresh to the story, as long as they capture the spirit of the story and stay relatively true to their characters, which I think 2020 Emma did quite well.
engelstraene3 I couldn’t agree more
The 1996 version with Kate Beckinsale and Mark Strong was my first love, and I adored the 2009 version with Romola Garai!
Honestly, I think Clueless was the best one.
Lol! As if!
I was looking for this comment!
I disagree
@@mari-ug3rj That's fine, everyone has their own opinion.
I don't really think it's quite comparable?
2009 is definitely my favorite! It represented the characters so well.
I really don't know why, but 1996 adaptation is so sweet (in good way, of course) and adorable! Gwyneth Paltrow is definitely the Emma i imagined while reading and the whole movie is very accurate in coping the rhythm of the book. But i also think, that other adaptations also very nice!
I loved it too!
The 1996 Gwenyth Paltrow and Jeremy Northam version is hand -downs my favorite. It is tasteful yet whimiscal; the cinematography is gorgeous; the costumes superb; the music lyrical; and it basically retains the heart of the novel. The 2009 is a close second in my book, however.
I own the 1972, 1996 Paltrow, 1996 BBC, 2009 BBC versions as well as the source novel. I am adding the 2020 one to my collection when it becomes available in May. Emma is my favorite Austen novel!
Clueless was very cute; I own that as well
2009’s version is definitely the best!!! The right length, the beautiful dresses, and the unforgettable music, everything just clicked in this one!
Concordo plenamente com você! Esta versão de 2009 é de fato a Emma do livro. Assim como a versão de orgulho e Preconceito de 1995 (seis episódios) para mim, também representa a melhor versão deste livro.
@@joseantonioruza4676 I think I met my soulmate😂😂 I love the 1995 pride and prejudice so much, I lost count how many times I’ve watched it.
The Kate Beckinsale one is definitely my favourite. Thank you for demonstrating the nuance and depth of that adaptation!
YES! It is the least romantic and least pretty, with a grainy sepia tone, but the story and characters seem most like the book. I especially love Miss Fairfax in it, and it has my favourite Frank.
The 2009 BBC series is my favourite. Fleshing out the story a bit more and touched on aspects that the 1996 one left out. Emma sister and brother-in-law etc. But I did enjoy the comedic element of the newer. Don't agree fulling with some casting, but that only a small detail.
Concordo plenamente com você! Esta versão de 2009 é de fato a Emma do livro. Assim como a versão de orgulho e Preconceito de 1995 (seis episódios) para mim, também representa a melhor versão deste livro.
I love the 2009 best for loads of reasons but I think one thing to mention is that so much of the dialogue is faithful to the novel (with a few tweaks/ omissions to either speed things up or so a modern audience can understand some of the words). And for me JA’s dialogue is one of the things that makes her books so good! I think that’s the reason this production is true to the witty, lively spirit of the novel - and Emma herself!
Romola Garai in the 2009 version ♥️ And it wasn't even my first version. I just prefer many of the characters and actors in it. Like some others have said, more lengthy so more details and characters are included. Including the tragic past that leads to all the events revolving around Emma, that she is naivly unaware of. Lost fortunes or lives leading to loss of future possibilites etc. While she plotts about in peoples love lifes willy nilly. Romola Garai portrays Emmas transformation so well.
I agree completely! Gwyneth Paltrow was my first version but I infinitely prefer the 2009 version. Maybe it’s just my bias but even while reading the book, I felt that Romola and Jonny were the exact embodiment of the book Emma and Knightley. It’s the same way I feel about the Ruth Wilson version of Jane Eyre, I just can’t watch any other version anymore 😂
Romola Garai was perfection in Emma!
Emma 2020 has the comedic air and satirical timing that was missing in the previous adaptions. Combined with the beautiful eye-candy shots, attire, and spectacular acting done by the perfectly casted-cast, the 2020 adaption holds a special place in my heart amongst the sea of Jane Austen adaptions, just like the book. In the end, I'm just grateful there are even so many adaptations at every Jane Austen lover's disposal-or anybody, really. If only she were alive to see how much her books and characters transcended time; I'm positive people with still be talking with adoration about these books for another 200 years.
The acting in the 2009 version is unparalleled, the other are very entertaining too but 2009s length also builds on characters much more.
The 2009 mini series is one of my top favorite Austen adaptations!
The 2020 version is hilarious!! Definitely a fave!
1996 ITV with Kate Beckinsale, it just appeals most to me. The others appear too much cozying up to the audience, without asking watchers to engage with Austen’s world.
But in the end it is down to personal preference, I would say.
@Charisma Girl That's a good observation! Sometimes I think it to be quite interesting the way some viewers have a favourite "Knightley" or "Darcy" or "Wentworth", and I do wonder whether or not these viewers are translating those preferences into the real world and relationships here.
(For the record, I don't think the 1996 ITV Knightley being particularly hot, I just think he as well as the other cast and script are closer to the book than other versions)
When it comes to purely character from the page, the one person I would be inclined to marry if I would be a character in a book by Jane Austen (if I wouldn't already be married to my best match and best friend) would be Admiral Croft. (Persuasion) - That's an "Austen-Couple" I would positively call "Marriage Goals", and I love how their complicity is portrayed on screen in the 1995 adaptation.
I like this one better,the actors are perfect in their roles,and this version is faithful to the book.
I believe This version nails Austen’s satire perfectly
@@seidenweberin Persuasion is my favourite Jane Austen Book and the 1995 version live adaptation is also my favourite. I completely with you on that couple.
@@Kaspleen I think I can never tire of Persuasion. It is beautifully written, but also a beautiful story 😊
I've watched Ramola's version first and liked it a lot. But I think Gwyneth captured Emma's character the most. She fits how I imagined Emma would be. Watched the movie many times and still laugh at her silliness. 😊
Penny Angel
Mark Strong's Knightley and Bernard Hepton's Mr Woodhouse in the 1996 TV adaptation captured the essence of the characters ! Great actors !
'Emma' of 2009 is the best. Ramola Garai is great!.
She was phenomenal in Daniel Deronda, too!!!
Yes to both comments!
I agree! I did like parts of the new adaption but honestly... it lost direction a lot and I got a bit bored which I hate to say. I did love the nosebleed though.
Андрей Минаев I concur!
Yes by far my fave adaptation
Kate Beckinsale's version nailed the intrinsic nature of the societal norms of Austen society. It was beautifully portrayed, by all the actors that seemed to be living the book. The characters were believable, flawed and even though Emma's actions could be awful she wasn't bad at heart. Just spoilt and mean. Her redemption and the climax love declaration was built up beautifully.
Mark Strong and Kate Beckinsale has some of the best chemistry for a period drama ❤
@@bluenorth3965 Hello, I am 3 weeks late to this reply but very readily agree! Just take a look at the new Bridgerton lol. I am curious to take some reccomendations from you since you seem like you have actual common sense.
@@bluenorth3965 You're Welcome. And quite right, any of your favorite will do.
Thank you for offering.
@@fatemah4444 If you like a good romance that is set in the past, I recommend “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society” that is available on Netflix. Crazy title but it is explained in the story line. It is set in England just after WWII and it is a lovely, charming movie. Lily James plays the main character and the male lead is Michael Huisman. He is gorgeous and the chemistry is fantastic.
@@lauriebriggs9705 Thank you dear it looks lovely
@@bluenorth3965 Thank you! The newer adaptations try so hard to force modern values on a bygone era erasing historical, cultural context. More than a little frustrating tbh.
I love the 1996 TV film version. The age gap between Kate Beckinsale and Mark Strong was about right and all of my favorite actors were in it. Olivia Williams was the perfect choice to play Jane Fairfax and Samantha Morton as Harriet Smith was also a good choice. Andrew Davies did an outstanding job adapting the book into a screenplay.
The age gap in the 2020 version was pretty accurate too
@@k.5425 No it was not.
@@annabodhi38 it was. Anne Taylor was about 22/23 years i think and knightley (I forget the actor's name) was 38 years.
@@k.5425 The age difference Between Johnny and Anya is 13 years, but the film made it appear that they were closer in age. Johnny Flynn does not look 16 years older than Anya Taylor-Joy; which is the age difference between Emma and George Knightley. The book clearly states that Mr. Knightley is 'nearly 17 years older than Emma. I think that the only film that was accurate in that regard was the version with Kate and Mark. It is not that I didn't enjoy the others; and as always, it is only my opinion. Enjoy the rest of your day.
@@annabodhi38 okay. They never say the ages in the film so I just used the actors real ages.
Also,can't comment on the other Emma films because I haven't watched them. I want to though.
Have a nice day too.
I did enjoy the 2020 film but the 2009 is just perfection. I rewatched it again today!
The 2009 version is my favourite. :)
1996 with Gwyneth Paltrow. Jeremy northam is my favorite Knightley. Mark strong my second. Nothing against Lee Miller or flynn's performances, they were great and I enjoyed them. They just are too baby faced in my opinion and that is distracting to me. It takes me out of the narrative. Again nothing against them or their performances. Just my opinion
Romolai Garai in the 2009 version is my favourite one. It’s probably the one truest to the book, and the least pretentious.
Why isn't there more love for the Gwyneth Paltrow version? I think because it's popular to hate Gwyneth now. But that doesn't have to ruin a perfectly good movie, and she was fantastic in the role, with just the right blend of naivete and charm. The scene where she mocks Miss Bates was subtle and brilliantly executed, while the other three versions practically rushed through it. Also the rest of the cast was amazing and the soundtrack absolutely beautiful. My fav version by far.
I completely agree. You see her naivete through her letter writing but you still can't help liking her, she is charming just misguided. And I agree that's the best portrayal of her mocking miss bates. She puts up pretenses because of her station but she is visibly annoyed by miss bates and thinks she can cleverly slip in a jab unnoticed and it takes miss bates aback as she isn't a dumb person, her delayed quiet reaction amplifies her distress and how upset she is and mr. knightly comes to her rescue while also making emma somewhat regret what she said. Him later being very disappointed in her is painful for her and she truly begins to regret her behavior.
Her accent was awful. Regardless of Gwyneth's reputation outside of her performance, her role as Emma was terrible next to the others.
I actually like Gwyneth Paltrow these days--she's Pepper Potts! But I've never loved her performance as Emma. She's smug, overly affected, almost theatrical in her delivery. It just doesn't ring true to me. ATJ to me captured Emma's snobbery and naivete to perfection. But to each his own. I do think the supporting characters in the 1996 Emma are some of the best.
I liked her version, but her accent put me off a bit. Her miss bates insult scene was the best of the 4
Gwyneth is pretty annoying
The Kate Beckinsale one IS THE BEST.
I haven't seen the new one yet, but my favourite adaptation has always been the 1997 TV movie with Kate Beckinsale.
Put Kate Beckinsale and the 2020 costuming into the 2009 BBC miniseries and you would have the perfect adaptation.
so trueeee
Without even getting into this video, Kate Beckinsale, Samantha Morton, and Mark Strong are my holy Trinity for this cast. It's one of my favorite films ever made. I feel the dream sequences and class distinctions are so beautifully done for an obviously lower budget film...and I almost forgot Olivia Williams as Jane Fairfax....it's the only version that gives her character a fleshed out and believable progression. Just a perfect movie.
@@bluenorth3965 we are in the minority and that is okay. 😁
@Charisma Girl one of us...one of us...geeble gobble 😁
Concordo plenamente com você! Esta versão de 2009 é de fato a Emma do livro. Assim como a versão de orgulho e Preconceito de 1995 (seis episódios) para mim, também representa a melhor versão deste livro.
The nosebleed scene was GENIUS and I shall not be convinced otherwise. It:
1- Made a sweet moment slightly funny and awkward (just like any Jane Austen adaptation should)
2- Showed how Emma was genuinely worried about Harriet
3- Showed how nervous she was about accepting Mr. Knightley
4- Showed that she wasn't selfish enough to simply accept the man she loved in spite of her friend's feelings
5- Was an unexpected moment in a story we all already know too well
Did you know that actress playing Emma said that the nosebleed was real?! It was scripted but she ended up having a real nosebleed at precisely the right moment! The reactions in the film are absolutely genuine!
Emma 2009 is my favorite without a doubt.
The 1996 one is a classic! What a beautiful score! What a great cast!
2020 has the best score
2020 is the best
Yes, the 1996 movie has great lovely score.
I love the 1997 version because I saw it as a child and was blown away that Emma didn't end up with Frank
2009 mini series is my favorite
1997 is the best. All the characters well acted , all similar to what I had read, best Emma and Knightley as they were several years apart. The soul of the novel is captured perfectly in this adaptation
1996 version with Gwyneth Paltrow and Jeremy Northam.
I love Paltrow and Beckinsale adaptations best
Ramola is the best Emma and Jonny Lee is so adorable beautiful man man. I have seen this version so many times !! Love it, love it.
My favorite Mr Knightley is Jeremy Northam so therefore I'd have to go with the 1996 version. I saw the 2020 version today and the sound was bad on my TV and with their accents I couldn't understand everything they said. But the best is probably the Kate Beckinsale version. But the one I watched over and over is with Gwyneth Paltrow.
The version with Gwyneth Paltrow and Jeremy Northern was the best. the actress that played that real talkative woman at the picnic was excellent
My favourite is Emma 2009. Because of the actors and the hole adaptation
Definitely Kate Beckinsale and Mark Strong.
I think it's important for people to remember that Jane Austen considered Emma a character only she would like. Emma is SUPPOSE to be unlikable. She's spoiled, pretentious, a know-it-all, and can be downright rude, but she's a member of the gentry with a dowry of 30,000 pounds (for reference, Elizabeth from Pride and Prejudice only had a dowry of 1,000 pounds) . Of course she behaves the way she does, which is why her transformation into someone who can recognize her faults is very touching. So I don't get it when people say they hate 2020 Emma because of how her character was portrayed.
ehm i do not exactly agree with this, Emma is in her own bubble and is privileged because she has never lived anything other than pure wealth but at the same time the text often says she is well intentioned and has you see it. she is spoiled, and that is why she can be unlikeable or come off as rude, but Emma 2020 doesn't show any of the redeeming qualities Emma does possess, not even in the third act where she is supposed to transform into a more aware person.
My favourite is the BBC miniseries from 1972. Probably too old fashioned for a younger audience, but very true to the book and the period, with superb actors. Mini series are so often better because you get to know the characters more intimately. As long as people still read and watch Austen I am happy.
Sophie Thompson as Miss Bates at the picnic made me cry uncontrollably. She is one of our (UK's) incredibly gifted actors, not to mention her sister and mother. The 1996 film of Emma will always be one of my favourites.
She and Jeremy Northam are the reasons I decided to watch Gwyneth Paltrow’s Emma
The 2009 mini series is my favorite Emma regency-set adaptation.
Clueless is my favorite modern retelling. I'm ashamed to say that I didn't realize that it was an Emma adaptation for a very long time, despite Mr. Elton's character being named Elton. 🤦♀️
I loved the comparisons between the Miss Bates 'very dull' Box Hill scene in this video. The comments seem to lean on the 2020 Emma being the least likeable, but, I love the absolute horror in her face as soon as she realises what she has said.
Lovely comparison. I honestly can’t choose between the 2009 miniseries and the new theatrical release. I adore both for different reasons. ❤️
My favorite adaptation is the one w/Kate Beckinsale. She, IMO, is the best Emma
The 2020 version is my favorite!
Imagine Wes Anderson doing an interpretation of Emma.
Now that would be an amazing thing to watch! And I dare to say way more creative than the 2020 take on it.
I checked multiple times while watching the 2020 version to see if he had directed it.
Autumn for sure was inspired by the Andersonian style 🤩🥰😍💯
The 2009 BBC miniseries is perfection.
Though I am a middle-aged man, I love classic literature by female authors including that of the Brontë sisters, Mary Ann Evans (George Eliot), and especially Jane Austen. The videos in your By the Book series are thoughtful, sagacious, and very well done. Thank you for making them. Cheers, Russ
I love Gwyneth Paltrow as EMMA!! That version will always be my favorite.
It's my favorite too!
My Fav "Emma" is the version with Romola Garai and Jonny Lee Miller, by far! Worst is the BBC series from 1972 where all the actors shout and screech at each other and are all stiff as boards.
2009 Romola Garai no doubt
What I learnt in this video: Mark Strong can play the male lead in Jane Austen XD
I have watched them all and I kinda like them all, though not so much the newest one (however I really liked the music in it + the aesthetics). My favourite is definitely the 2009 one. Romola's Emma is a joy to watch.
Romola Garai made Emma SO endearing! I liked the 1996 and 1997 versions, but they made it hard to see beyond the "spoiled brat" lens, while the 2009 version showed that Emma is already a good person at the start of the story, but she just "has room to improve"
2009 for me, no contest. When I first watched it felt like the book came to life before my eyes just like it did in my imagination when I read it for the first time
Yes! Reading the comments I am so glad others love the 2009 version! It is my favorite!
I like different elements from all four of these adaptations. It's hard to say which would be my favourite but I do have a soft spot for the Mark Strong/Kate Beckinsale adaptation as it's the first one I saw.
Thank you for this! I prefer the two versions from the 1990s. But the book itself is the very best!
I really love the new movie, but I actually think the miniseries is my favorite.
My favorite Emma adaptation is Clueless 😂
2009 will always be my favourite, Jonny and Romola have such lovely chemistry, but I did like Flynn’s Knightley. I can’t be the only one that doesn’t get Taylor-Joy’s odd quirkiness though. It just didn’t fit Emma at all. I would have preferred to see her as odd bumbling sweetheart Harriet.
The 2020 adaptation was the most artistic, true to the novel and my favorite movie.
The 2009 mini series will always be my favorite, I love everything about it
I liked the new adaptation, but my favourite has to be the 2009 miniseries. I also like the one with Kate - I have a soft spot for the Frank-Jane storyline and how this version portrayed it is unbeatable (this is also the only version with a truly stunning Harriet, which is true to the book - although I liked her in the new version too.) The only one I'd say I don't like is the Paltrow version, however great Mr. Knightley is in there (it is although beautifully shot and the archery scene is a nod to the 1940 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice).
And (although it is a modern version) but Clueless is such a great Emma-adaptation!
I agree--I might like the new version slightly better than the 2009 version, but the Frank/Jane subplot in the Kate Beckinsale version just can't be beat. Olivia Williams is wonderful as Jane.
I love the 2009 version!
Although for the modern adaptation i have to go with emma approved!
@@pmparda Yes, Emma Approved is great! Not quite as good as Lizzie Bennett Diaries, IMO (which I rank only behind the 1995 P&P), but such a good adaptation.
@@JaneHeir well yeah lbd is the best of pemberley digital. But i liked the emma/knightly relationship better, they were both there from the beginning!
In both though i loved the modern adaptations that went beyond modern language and clothes. Like job positions and bussinesses instead of marriage...
@@pmparda Yes, absolutely! They turn early 19th century economic propositions into 21st century economic propositions--showing that what Austen was really writing about (the intersections of emotional honesty and acuity/economics/societal structures and expectations) is ageless.
1995 was good but I like 2020 more !! It's more picturesque, dreamy and beautiful!! Absolutely loved it! 💓
I adored the 2020 version.
While I understand Emma was never supposed to be a generally like able character, I feel as though the 2020 adaptation did not paint her as unlikeable due to her childishness, but because she was rude and lacked propriety. The 2009 version reflected the true foils of Emma and Knightley. Emma: young, foolish, believes she knows best. Knightley: mature, caring, and patient with Emma despite her immaturity. The 2020 version did not do the characters justice, and left their actions and feelings to seem extremely shallow. This may have come with the need to squeeze the plot into the length of one movie, but it still left me wholly unsatisfied.
Well put. I share in your sentiments. I was not at all pleased with the 2020 version as I felt it made Emma far more dis-likable, painting her in an intentionally rude light instead of her true naivety.
I agree mostly. The most I can really say about 2020 was that it was a very pretty movie with good acting. I would agree that Emma seemed much more unlikeable due to rudeness, not just naivety. But to me nothing beats the 1996 version. My problem with 2009 was the severe lack of adherence to the decorum of the time. I know this was intentional but it took me out of the movie quite a lot. I also didn't really enjoy 1997 that much Mr Knightly had a bit of a dad vibe to me and I didn't feel the romantic chemistry between them was that strong.
madeleine smallwood the 2009 is my favourite overall but I agree about the lack of decorum. It is the reason no version really pleases me. Probably why I end up thinking Clueless understood the source better even though it isn’t really an adaptation. I just saw the new Emma and I did not enjoy it much. I do like quirky things so that aspect was OK but it never felt like Emma. I thought her recognizing her feelings for Mr Knightley came too soon and he was kind of nasty to her at times. The side characters were hardly recognizable though I did like their Harriet Smith
I feel like I'm the only Emma fan in the world that really disliked the 2009. The dialogue just didn't do it for me and the casting was wrong. The Emma was more vapid than a drama queen, which I think is off base.
I adored the 2020 its was the most accurate and honestly Anya was the most compassionate Emma. That's Emma's saving grace, shes not malicious, she's bored (becauae shes highly intellegent, and drama is her only outlet) and naive. Anya's character actually really displays the growth needed to be a likeable Emma. And we must remember Emma was basically a romantic comedy and the 2020 is really the only adaptation I've seen that actually translates that to film.
You aren't the only one who dislikes 2009. The lack of adherence to the decorum of the time especially bugged me. However, I do disagree with you about the 2020 version which I think made Emma seem a bit to shallow and that nosebleed scene made me want to rip my hair out. The ruined what was supposed to be a sweet serious scene for the sake of another joke. The acting wasn't bad and it was well directed, I certainly think it was a very PRETTY movie but doesn't hold a candle to 1996 with Paltrow and Northam. My opinion.
Loved Romola Garai as Emma the most, although the 2020 version is just beautifully done.
Cluelesss is in a class all by itself.
I love the 2020 version so much! I still can't move on from the dance scene. It was so intimate i fell in love with them. Mr knightley is the best here for me. And i also love anya's portrayal. And the costumes as well are amazing! Mr. Woodhouse also stood out along with his two servants! 😆
Thanks for this comparison of most of the adaptations from the 90's upward. Encourages me to go back to the actual text of 'Emma' and read it in Austen's own words!
The last one with its humour and marvellous costumes is very good. But I loved the série 2009 very much too. They complete each other and both are so fun to watch again and again
I loOoOove that you begin each section with the dialogue of "three dull things indeed".
I still think that Gwyneth Paltrow's act is the best😍
I like 2009 mini series the best b/c they actually made all the characters likable (except Harriet, sorry, she didn't work for me), especially Romala Garai, who was the most likable version of Emma, though her posture needed work (I would rank the other Emmas as equally annoying). But I love all the secondary characters from the 1996 version (there are too many to list). They're some of the best British character actors, especially Miss Bates and Mr. & Mrs. Elton. Jeremy Northam is my favorite Knightley & embodies the character best IMO. To be honest, I don't think any of them get Harriet quite right. I think the 1996 version does the best job of the scene with Emma hurting Miss Bates & getting in a fight w/ Knightley.
2009's my favorite too. And they dressed Garai's Emma the best of them all - a couture of beautifully understated color and comfort, leaning on simplicity & informality.
@g7dmother •}:{• I never thought of Emma as unlikable in any of these cinematic adaptations or from reading the book. For me, as she grew she just became more likable.
Lovely Girl i agree, but we should come to like her in the end. 2009’s emma is still immature and incredibly annoying at points, but you can see her good intentions and appreciate her growth in ways not every version can pull off. 2020’s emma was alright, but she felt a bit cold and stiff without necessarily showcasing the immaturity that emma suffers from.
My favorite: the 2009 BBC version.
2009 is my fav adaptation hands down!
I loved the 2020 version so much (I watched it twice in the 48 hour renting window). It really sets off everyone's foolishness, not just Emma's, and I really liked that Emma was the one to fix things between Harriet and Mr. Martin. It's not how the book went, but it's one of the few instances where Austen's class-consciousness really bothered me (iirc Emma is happy that Harriet is happy, but basically ends their relationship). But Emma being the one to fix things was a much more satisfying conclusion to the story. I also loved the set and the cast and the servants rolling their eyes at all this rich BS.
I also really liked the 2009 miniseries because it fleshed out Jane and Frank more, but there were a few times when I felt like it was beating me over the head with the imagination sequences. I did love the cast and everything else about it, though.
I haven't seen the 2006 version, but it looks interesting, and I only saw the Gwyneth Paltrow version once and I felt kind of meh about it.
Omg I love Emma 2020 so much as much as you do. I could repeat watching all day because it’s funny and I’m so excited about the movie which is meant Emma character just look like in the book describe her personality and 2020 Emma is so mean I know lol 😂 but she has pure heart and I love her more than Emma other version
I love Douglas McGrath's Emma (Gwyneth Paltrow version) it brought Jane Austen's wit on the page to the screen in a way I'd never seen before. I ended up seeing it 18 times at the cinema before buying it (initially on LaserDisc). The Beckingsale version was a disappointment by comparison. I just saw the ATJoy version with some trepidation, but loved it. I haven't seen Romola's version but now want to as I love Jonny Lee Miller in my favourite Jane Austen adaptation, Mansfield Park (1999).
Emma 1996 the best one for me, i really love it!
Emma with Kate Beckinsale gets my vote for the brunette appearance alone.
Of course, it's a far better adaptation than any of the including the newest, as well. None of the other actresses have had the bite, the meanness, that undeniable air of superiority that was requisite to the character of Emma Wodehouse, and which Kate Beckinsale embodied in her portrayal.
2009 is the best of the three. The review discusses the first adaptation elaborately but passes by the BBC adaptation of 2009 very fast and not much about the third. Not much useful
Concordo plenamente com você! Esta versão de 2009 é de fato a Emma do livro. Assim como a versão de orgulho e Preconceito de 1995 (seis episódios) para mim, também representa a melhor versão deste livro.
The 2009 BBC version is my favorite.