‘Phenomenal’ Jane Austen period drama perfect for Downton Abbey fans

The Jane Austen film released in 2020 has fans watching it ‘countless times’ calling it a ‘phenomenal’ take on the beloved classic novel

It received high praise as ‘the best adaptation’ of the book (Image: Handout)

Released in 2020, this production boasts all the elaborate costumes and sumptuous settings of a period drama alongside the enduring narrative of a literary classic, yet with its own distinctive style that audiences simply adore.

The acclaim for this film appears boundless, as viewers consistently post five-star glowing reviews online, with the title readily available to stream at home. It holds an overall rating of 86% on the review platform Rotten Tomatoes, with critics largely agreeing it represents a triumph amongst contemporary adaptations.

Emma is a romantic comedy situated during the Regency era, helmed by director Autumn de Wilde in a retelling of the cherished Jane Austen novel of the same name. Taking on the role of Miss Emma Woodhouse is Anya Taylor-Joy, who embodies the affluent young woman living with her father, who has little else to occupy her time than interfering in others’ affairs.

Living a privileged and comfortable life in England means she possesses endless leisure hours, which she utilises by inserting herself into the romantic entanglements of those in her circle. Before long, her scheming and meddling prove troublesome when one of her intended matches confesses he has fallen for somebody else entirely.

One viewer wrote an extensive review, saying: “This feels like Wes Anderson meets Jane Austen in the best way. The actors felt spot on and the visuals were stunning. I love how conceited Anya Taylor Joy’s depiction of Emma is at the beginning so that we can see the juicy messes it causes before she grows to be a better person.

The costume design was Oscar-nominated (Image: handout)

“My dad and I have watched this countless times already, and it has convinced him to start reading Jane Austen. I have a thing for very flawed protagonists, so I loved this!”

Appearing alongside Taylor Joy is a stellar ensemble of British acting talent, including the legendary Bill Nighy. Also featuring on screen are Callum Turner, Josh O’Connor, Johnny Flynn and horror icon Mia Goth.

Another fan shared: “Phenomenal adaptation. Hilarious, beautifully filmed, witty, and well-acted. Rewards multiple viewings. Easily one of my favourite Jane Austen adaptations and I’ve seen them all, many times.”

Josh O’Connor stars in the film (Image: handout)

When it comes to adaptations, they frequently face considerable scrutiny, particularly with Austen commanding such reverence, yet it appears many agree that the 2020 film honoured the source material superbly.

A devotee of the film shared: “To me this is a nearly perfect adaptation of Emma. It’s actually witty and funny, and the pastoral comedy is well executed.

“From the direction, the script, the actors, and especially the costumes, it absolutely shines.”

Upon its theatrical release, it proved commercially successful, earning an impressive $27.4 million worldwide against its $10 million budget, and subsequently garnered significant recognition.

Acknowledging the film’s exquisite period detail and visual splendour, it secured two Academy Award nominations for Best Costume Design and Best Makeup and Hairstyling – aspects that certainly captured viewers’ attention.

One review reads: “Far and away the best adaptation of Emma thus far, in my opinion. It’s quite true to the story of the book, beautiful to look at, funny, sweet, and bright. It feels modern and updated but not too separated from the time period of the story. Highly recommend this one!”

CRE: https://www.express.co.uk/entertainment/films/2213364/phenomenal-jane-austen-period-drama-fans-say-perfect-adaptation