Vivien Collins

The film follows the book closely, and is a loving and witty adaptation. According to Jane Austen, Emma isn't supposed to be instantly likable, and she certainly isn't here. But she is certainly clever enough, as the opening scenes tells us, and eventually she learns that natural intelligence is without purpose, if you are not willing to learn from your mistakes. The cast are superbly matched to their roles: whether it's Anya Taylor-Joy as the sharply intelligent and proud Emma, Johnny Flynn as the thoughtful and compassionate Mr Knightley, Bill Nighy as the ever complaining father or Miranda Hart as the chatty and sweet Miss Bates. Everyone is perfectly matched to their role. The scenery is sugar coated perfection. as is the luscious musical soundtrack, and the dialogue carefully matches the style of the time, giving it a timeless and intelligent quality that is often lacking in films these days. It is the perfect antidote to the modern world. And that doesn't have to be a bad thing, right now.