The Reel Review
Gwyneth Paltrow IS Emma, in this film adaptation of the clever Jane Austen classic about the cheerfully conniving matchmaker whose well-intended but misguided efforts threaten to jeopardize her own chance at love in 19th century England.
While the start feels a bit dated by today’s moviemaking standards, writer/director Douglas McGrath’s cleverly written and thoroughly entertaining adaptation of the Austen novel is timeless, with Paltrow’s spot-on performance complemented by a charming supporting cast – Jeremy Northam, Toni Collette and Sophie Thompson, who singlehandedly will break your heart into a million pieces in that picnic scene.
The film’s subtle quirkiness and good natured, likable characters make this adaptation a heartfelt winner that Austen herself would enjoy.
REEL FACTS
• Mrs. Bates and Miss Bates, mother and daughter in the film, are played by real-life mother and daughter Phyllida Law and Sophie Thompson, who are real-life mother and sister to Oscar-winning actress and screenwriter Emma Thompson.
• Toni Collette says she gained weight for her role as the Rubenesque Harriet, to make her more realistic.
• Texas-born director Douglas McGrath says Gwyneth Paltrow won him over for the lead role in Emma when she did a Texas accent during her audition.
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