Anita Hagerman

Aesthetically inconsistent both visually and in the soundtrack. Overall the adaptation choices either mimicked earlier versions exactly or were frankly odd departures from the book. Often pretty, overall this opts for being striking rather than clever. I found Emma and Frank Churchill were neither vulnerable or likeable enough to temper their cruel arrogance. Mr Knightley was likeable, if neither mature nor particularly gentlemanly. Mr Elton earned several great laughs. I don’t know why Mrs. Goddard’s girls were costumed and blocked like Handmaids. Blessed be, this was not a good Emma, though I enjoyed the sets and costumes. I missed the wit and depth of Austen. Like its protagonist, the film is pretty but superficial.