Emma starring Anya Taylor-Joy Blu-ray review – win a copy!
By Alexandra Heilbron on May 19, 2020 | 25 Comments
Emma remake is enjoyable and hilarious
Although some may believe there have been enough versions of Jane Austen’s work, including her novel Emma, about a rich young woman who lives a life of luxury, but if they haven’t seen director Autumn de Wilde’s Emma, they don’t know that they’re missing out on the most hilarious and finely crafted version of the story ever told on screen.
Screenwriter Eleanor Catton adds much humor to the proceedings, as well as infusing drama in a way that has never been seen before in this classic. The tale of Emma Woodhouse (Anya Taylor-Joy) seems fairly simple. A young woman who has lived a pampered life begins to believe she has a talent for matchmaking. However, her meddling in the affairs of other people leads to much confusion and hurt feelings, not only for those around her, but even for herself.
When she takes Harriet (Mia Goth), a young girl who lives at a nearby boarding school under her wing, Emma makes a good friend. Emma also has a friend in her longtime neighbor, Mr. Knightley (Johnny Flynn), who, coming from similar wealth, can afford to be frank with Emma about her deeds. He doesn’t praise her or play up to her.
When he believes that she has interfered in Harriet’s future happiness, he tells Emma plainly, but she is reluctant to listen to him.
Emma’s father is played hilariously by Bill Nighy, who makes his characterization as outrageous as possible, driving his footmen to distraction with his ridiculous requests and complaints.
Miss Bates, played sympathetically by Miranda Hart, is a woman who has lost her wealth and now lives as frugally as possible while retaining some social standing. She’s a talkative woman who loves to tell Emma all about her niece, Jane Fairfax, whether or not Emma wants to hear about her (she does not). There’s one scene involving Miss Bates that comes as such a shock, it will leave you speechless.
And then there’s the pompous young Mr. Elton, played for laughs by Josh O’Connor, whom Emma tries to match with Harriet.
The cast is outstanding, and as the story progresses, we see many of the main characters change and grow, especially Mr. Knightley as he realizes his feelings, and Emma, who finds out Harriet is falling for the wrong man — and worries that Harriet’s feelings are reciprocated.
It’s not just the cast that makes this film incredibly entertaining and a treat to watch — it’s the entire package — from the costumes to the scenery, the grand estates, the jewelry and the little touches, such as the Woodhouse’s footmen who are featured prominently in many scenes and given names, but never talk.
The spectacular cinematography, the music that fits every scene and moment perfectly and even the way each scene is perfectly and symmetrically staged, make this film a visual and emotional delight from beginning to end. ~Alexandra Heilbron
We have five digital copies of this film to give away. If you would like to win one, leave a comment below, telling us what you are doing during the pandemic to stay sane!
BONUS FEATURES:
Deleted Scenes
Gag Reel
A Playful Tease – Go behind the scenes with the talented cast as they share their experiences making the film.
Crafting a Colorful World– Cast and crew discuss the gorgeously preserved locations, extravagant set dressing, and authentic costumes featured in the film.
The Autumn Gaze – An intimate look at director Autumn de Wilde’s filmmaking process and her photographic eye.
Feature Commentary with Director Autumn de Wilde, Screenwriter Eleanor Catton, and Director of Photography Christopher Blauvelt
The giveaway is now closed. Thank you to everyone who entered! Here are the winners: Jackie Hartwick,
Amber Clouthier, Sharon Ojala, Carol Jollymore and Kristen Norlock (from Instagram).
Comments & Discussion
Similar Articles
What to watch at home this week – May 6 to 12
May 6, 2024 | Leave a Comment
Check out what’s new this week on streaming services such as Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV+, Crave, Paramount+ and BritBox, plus new DVDs/Blu-rays.
What to watch at home this week – April 29 to May 5
April 29, 2024 | Leave a Comment
Check out what’s new this week on Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV+, Prime Video, Crave, Paramount+ and BritBox, as well as new DVD and Blu-ray releases.
What to watch at home this week – April 22 to 28
April 22, 2024 | Leave a Comment
Find out what’s new this week on Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV+, Prime Video, Crave, Paramount+ and BritBox, as well as new DVD and Blu-ray releases.
This was my favourite Jane Austen book. I’ve been waiting to see this movie so I think I will be dusting off my copy and giving it a read. Otherwise I have been busy hanging out with my kiddos while also trying to teach them.
I am building things for my cats to climb on.. basically turning my porch into a play room for cats.
I am binging on netflix, cooking and reading books
I’ve watched movies, of course!! Plus read books and exercised.
Luckily I’ve been able to work remotely, so I am able to keep a bit of a Monday-Friday 8am-4pm routine.
catching up on movies from across the decades has been my sanity check
I’m working from home and quite enjoy it!! Lots of web meetings and more work than I can handle!! I love not having to take the train every day!!
I just finishing my last IV chemo! That’s what I’m doing.
I’ve been laughing a lot while watching funny Netflix shows and clips from talk shows on YouTube! Also dance parties in my living room. Trying new recipes, getting out on my bike, picking up trash in the neighbourhood, and appreciating my houseplants are other things I’ve been enjoying! 😀
Baking. Lots of baking. And eating. 😁 lots of eating!
I am occupying my time trying to build a website to keep my business going. My business depends strongly on retail sales from stores. Trying to pivot to a different type of business total. My family has been hit hard financially by the caronavirus pandemic. Thanks for the opportunity.
Going for long peaceful walks
Trying to stay sane by taking up a hobby of sourdough starter and trying out baking with it!
Between a spouse working full time with the public, working full time from home, and trying to teach and entertain my daughter, I need something else to put my mind on!!
I cooked more than usual, had time to bake and share the goodies with neighbors from a distance, texted and spoke with family and friends, I have a better handle on how Facebook works, I read a lot, went for walks when the weather warmed up and now I’m gardening and working on the yard, playing with my dog, Peanut. Doing stretching exercises to gain more flexibility for a stiff back. Watching TV, got Netflix.
Reading, gardening, reading a few books and trying our new recipes for the family
I’m watching movies and TV shows during the pandemic.
I’m reading, watching movies, baking, and attempting to spring clean my house.
Decluttering after 25 years of build up, finally have time to do it.
Decluttering after 25 years of build up and never having time to do it.
Working from home, sewing for my 1st baby grand daughter that was born on May 17.
Aah, four months of forced isolation in the very rural Great White North. What to do, what to do??? Read, home repairs, read, binge watch TV series and movies, read, work on genealogies, and read some more. And generally watch the world fall to pieces, including our vacation plans for the next two years… .
This movie’s genre is my favourite, I would love to have a copy to view at my liesure. The stories never grow old with me. Thanks.
We’re doing lots of gardening. It’s nice to get outside once in a while. Thanks for the opportunity to win a copy of Emma!
I have been painting and working out in my garden now the weather is better,also trying out new recipes and lots of walks with new puppy.Perfect time to try and train him.l love all of Jane Austin’s works so thanks for the opportunity to win a copy.Whether l win or not l will surely be watching the show.Thanks.
I watch movies on Netfex read books and try to walk a little!