http://janeaustensummer.org/2015/04/01/yes-theres-an-emma-for-that/
Yes, there’s an ‘Emma’ for that
Posted on April 1, 2015 Updated on April 1, 2015
By Jennifer Abella
Jane Austen might have written a heroine that readers may not much like, but Emma has been brought to life on screens big and small numerous times and in numerous eras. These adaptations can fit any mood and personality. Read on to see which might fit you best.
If you love Martha Stewart …
“Emma” (1996 feature film)
This film is like Gwyneth Paltrow’s hair: perfectly coiffed, no strand out of the place. Cool, (mostly) calm and sophisticated, this adaptation has a sheen of Hollywood glamour. Who wouldn’t want to live in this version of Highbury? Like Emma, the film strives for perfection; it may occasionally fail, but we love it anyway. Paltrow’s heroine is full of helpful hints about love and marriage and even how to embroider. If she ran the Internet, she’d start a lifestyle site like … well … Goop.
If you need a Knightley fix …
“Emma Approved,” “Emma” (2009), “Emma” (1996 film)
This one is a hard choice! If you’re looking for an earnest Knightley, Jeremy Northam’s iteration (1996) is sweet and big brotherly without veering into avuncular territory. Jonny Lee Miller’s 2009 version is a bit tougher, less earnest and more pragmatic with a touch of humor. Brent Bailey from “Emma Approved” plays down the “Knightley knows best” attitude in favor of treating Emma more as an equal.
All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt. (Charles M. Schulz)
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