Watching Emma

I’ve been spending some time with my mom this weekend so we’ve been having a bit of a movie and t.v. marathon and have watched some Cadfael, a couple of novelas, a great Golden Age Mexican film and Emma.

emma.jpg How I loved this movie. Now, I have a bad memory and it’s been a while since I read Emma, but I found this to be a great adaptation of the book. I thought Kate Beckinsale was a very believable as Emma, who was intelligent, graceful, stubborn and of course a bit misguided when it came to all her matchmaking.

Some of my favorite scenes were the ones where she has her little daydreams. I don’t remember those being part of the book at all but they worked well for me. And, there is a scene where Mr. Elton tells Emma that he was encouraged by her attention and the look on her face as she realizes where the conversation is headed is just priceless.

Of course the big moment for me was really at the picnic where Mr. Knightley confronts Emma on her behavior toward Miss Bates. I know Emma has a lot to learn but right there I think she finally got it. She finally realized that her actions could really hurt people.

So, this was a delightful movie with what I thought was a great cast. Some of my favorite characters were Mr. Knightley (of course), Harriet Smith, Mr. Woodhouse, Mrs. Elton and even Frank Churchill. So one down for my Everything Austen challenge. I think my mom and I may watch Pride & Prejudice too so I’ll let you know.

Now, I’ve not seen the Gwenyth Paltrow version but what do you think? Have you seen both and which was your favorite?

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