Emma Review

March 24, 2020 at 7:17pm
By Jason Stettner

This is the latest adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic romantic comedy. It certainly captures and presents that era wit in rather sharp ways. It has elements that are most certainly hilarious, while delivering little stings with a high level of sophistication. I thoroughly enjoyed this film, as it had just the right balance of drama and laughs to supply that. This is character driven, with Emma Woodhouse (Anya Taylor-Joy) being the focal point of events.

She’s joined by her close friend Harriet (Mia Goth) and the two go on various high class adventures. There are many characters involved here, and the dynamics are fascinating. You get the various fiercely competitive women from different social standings and then also on a smaller level the two male leads facing off. The other males are mostly stuck in rather funny situations. It’s an interesting dynamic, and there are some narrative surprises as well.

Some hidden moments, and they sneak these in quite well. The story was definitely intriguing and an overall delight. I did however find it to be a tad long, it seemed like it could have closed off at an earlier point but kept striding along. I didn’t mind this as I was enjoying the experience, but I could see how some might find this overwhelming it terms of its length.

The acting was excellent, and on point throughout the entirety of the film by all parties involved. I honestly couldn’t point out a weak link as this is one great cast. The characters here are very enchanting as they range from intense romance to a fury of sorrows.

It’s majestic from the way they actually dance, to a similar system in how they compete amongst each other. It’s such a striking style of dialogue, and fun to see how that wit plays out. The visual elements were gorgeous here, high praise to the costume design. On top of that, the set design really nailed the time piece aspect of this being wonderful.

There was such a nice use of vibrant colors, great distinct seasonal shifts and absolutely lovely places to see. It all flowed so well together and was shot very well. It helped capture the sense of scale, while also providing a clear look at what it would feel like to be in the tighter social situations that were presented.

The Conclusion

Emma was a complete delight, providing many laughs and intriguing dramatic elements set against this perfectly captured 1800’s English era. There were so many unique plot points and areas of competition within the characters involved.

It was great to see them interact in almost non-direct ways that were even more striking than if they were to be upfront with one another. The little jabs, points of contention and little diversions within their attitudes. You’re never sure where things are going to head and it’s a generally enchanting time.

I found this to be quite funny, and I loved certain reactions from characters to others on what was happening. The humor certainly does transfer over well, and it’s matched by a stunning yet almost simply extravagant world that they’ve created for the backdrop.

Emma Review at Home with Standard Viewing

Rating Overall: 8.2