Emma

Movie Trailer

Release Date
February 21, 2020

Genre
Comedy, Drama, Romance

Cast & Crew

• Anya Taylor-Joy as Emma Woodhouse
• Johnny Flynn as George Knightley
• Mia Goth as Harriet Smith
• Bill Nighy as Mr. Woodhouse
• Miranda Hart as Miss Bates
• Josh O’Connor as Mr. Elton
• Callum Turner as Frank Churchill
• Tanya Reynolds as Mrs. Elton
• Gemma Whelan as Mrs. Weston
• Rupert Graves as Mr. Weston

Director
Autumn de Wilde

Other Movies Director is Known For:
Emma. marks the feature film directorial debut for Autumn de Wilde, previously known for her work in music videos and photography.

Producer
Tim Bevan
Eric Fellner
Graham Broadbent

Writer
Eleanor Catton (Screenplay)
Based on the novel Emma by Jane Austen

Budget
$10 million

Production Company
Working Title Films
Blueprint Pictures
Perfect World Pictures

Running Time
124 minutes

Languages
English (Original)

Maturity Rating
PG

Content Advisory

• Some mild thematic elements
• Brief language

Movie Story
Emma. is a vibrant and witty adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel, following the life of Emma Woodhouse (Anya Taylor-Joy), a young woman living in Regency-era England. Emma is beautiful, clever, and rich, with a comfortable life and little to vex her—except her own misguided confidence in her matchmaking abilities. The story explores Emma’s journey as she meddles in the romantic lives of her friends and neighbors, often with unintended consequences.

The film begins with Emma, who is confident in her ability to pair her friends with suitable matches. After successfully arranging the marriage of her governess, Mrs. Weston (Gemma Whelan), Emma turns her attention to Harriet Smith (Mia Goth), a sweet but naïve girl of unknown parentage. Despite Harriet’s affection for a local farmer, Mr. Martin, Emma persuades her to set her sights higher, specifically on the ambitious vicar, Mr. Elton (Josh O’Connor).

However, Emma’s plans go awry when Mr. Elton reveals that he is actually interested in Emma, not Harriet, leading to an awkward and humiliating misunderstanding. As Emma continues to navigate the complexities of social interactions and relationships, she is also confronted with her own feelings towards her friend and neighbor, Mr. Knightley (Johnny Flynn). Throughout the film, Emma’s well-intentioned but flawed attempts at matchmaking lead to a series of comic misunderstandings and personal growth.

Autumn de Wilde’s direction brings a fresh and lively approach to the classic material, with a keen eye for visual detail and a strong emphasis on the film’s comedic elements. Anya Taylor-Joy shines as the titular character, capturing Emma’s charm, wit, and vulnerability. The film’s sumptuous production design, vibrant costumes, and playful score all contribute to creating a richly textured and engaging period piece that both honors and reinvents Austen’s work for a modern audience.

Special Effects
Emma. relies on exquisite production design, costuming, and cinematography rather than traditional special effects. The film’s visual style is meticulously crafted to reflect the elegance and opulence of Regency-era England, with a focus on lavish interiors, picturesque landscapes, and intricate period costumes. The use of color and framing enhances the film’s tone, highlighting both the beauty and the social constraints of the time.

Box Office Performance
Emma. was released in early 2020 and grossed approximately $26 million worldwide. The film received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, praised for its visual style, performances, and its faithful yet refreshing take on Jane Austen’s novel. Despite being released during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, the film performed well on streaming platforms, further solidifying its success.

Filming Locations

• Firle Place, East Sussex, England
• Chavenage House, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, England
• Lower Slaughter, Gloucestershire, England
• Wilton House, Salisbury, Wiltshire, England

Notable Quotes

• “I am going to take a heroine whom no one but myself will much like.” – Emma Woodhouse
• “It is always incomprehensible to a man that a woman should ever refuse an offer of marriage.” – Mr. Knightley
• “You must be the best judge of your own happiness.” – Mr. Knightley

Behind-the-Scenes
Autumn de Wilde’s background in photography and music videos is evident in Emma.’s highly stylized and visually arresting composition. The film’s attention to detail in costuming and set design was praised, with the filmmakers drawing inspiration from period paintings and Regency fashion. Anya Taylor-Joy was cast for her ability to bring both charm and complexity to the character of Emma, making her a perfect fit for the role. The film’s score, composed by Isobel Waller-Bridge and David Schweitzer, adds a playful and contemporary edge to the period setting.

Awards

• Nominated for Best Costume Design at the 2021 Academy Awards
• Nominated for Best Makeup and Hairstyling at the 2021 Academy Awards
• Won Best Costume Design at the 2021 BAFTA Awards

Final Verdict
Emma. is a delightful and visually stunning adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel, offering a fresh and vibrant take on the classic story. With strong performances, particularly from Anya Taylor-Joy, and a keen directorial vision from Autumn de Wilde, the film successfully blends humor, romance, and social commentary. It’s a must-see for fans of period dramas and Austen’s work, as well as anyone who appreciates beautifully crafted cinema.

IMDb Rating
6.7/10