Netflix's 2020 film Emma., directed by Autumn de Wilde and starring Anya Taylor-Joy, is being hailed by audiences and critics as the best Jane Austen adaptation ever made, surpassing even Pride and Prejudice. The period drama, based on Austen's 1815 novel, is currently streaming on the platform.
A Star-Studded Adaptation
The film features Anya Taylor-Joy, known for The Queen's Gambit, in the titular role, alongside Mia Goth, Johnny Flynn, Josh O'Connor, Callum Turner, Miranda Hart, and Bill Nighy. The official synopsis reads: "Beautiful, smart and wealthy, Emma Woodhouse navigates her way through misguided matches, romantic missteps and the challenges of growing up - all to finally realise the love that has been there all along."
Emma. earned two Oscar nominations for Best Costume Design and Best Makeup and Hairstyling at the 93rd Academy Awards. Taylor-Joy also received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy for her role.
Critical and Audience Praise
Critics have praised the adaptation for its fidelity and modern appeal. One review noted: "This delightful and gorgeously filmed adaptation of Jane Austen's 1815 novel Emma stays mostly faithful to the original story but spices it up a bit to appeal to modern audiences." Another called it "sumptuous, like Downton Abbey on steroids," while a third described it as "a gorgeous and entertaining return into the world of Jane Austen that should easily please Austen fans old and new."
Audiences have been equally enthusiastic. One viewer wrote: "Phenomenal adaptation. Hilarious, beautifully filmed, witty, and well-acted. Rewards multiple viewings. Easily one of my favourite Jane Austen adaptations and I've seen them all, many times." Another compared it favorably to Pride and Prejudice, stating it "has become my favourite adaptation of an Austen novel, just barely beating out Joe Wright's Pride and Prejudice."
Streaming on Netflix
One viewer remarked: "Absolutely delightful. It is a joy watching this movie which was a lot better than the book which I don't remember enjoying half as much." Emma. is available to stream on Netflix.
