Emma (2020)

First time director Autumn de Wilde is known for her photography and Emma shows off that skill set. Emma is a gorgeous film and de Wilde both frames her shots in a compelling manner but uses that shot to create beautiful moment after beautiful moment. Also she doesn't, as one might expect of a photographer, restrict herself to stillness. She uses quite a bit of movement in her shots, imbuing the film with a kinetic energy which is all appropriate for this whimsical tale.

Because Emma is whimsical. Yes it is a critique of social norms and stratification but this film's approach to the tale is on the lighter side, using charming humour to take the piss out of early 19th century English society, a critique that holds up well to today. From de Wilde's joyful approach to the endearing score and the cast's clear enjoyment of their work, this Emma is a fun and beautiful romp and not nearly as tongue in cheek as the last Hollywood adaptation. In many ways it feels like she strikes just the right balance for this tale.

Anya Taylor-Joy, who I often find is great even when the film isn't, embodies the title character very well, full of sweet arrogance. The story of Emma can be a problem as we need to remain sympathetic to Emma while also seeing through her careless cruelty. Yes, her behavior is well meaning, but that's part of the novel's critique, the way her status and privilege make her think she should wield her power despite its effects. It is easy to either downplay just how bad her interfering is or to give up on her. Taylor-Joy finds the way to keep us invested in her complicated, flawed character.

But I'm not sure I felt any chemistry between her and Mr. Knightly. In many ways Knightly is our way into Emma, as we often see her similarly to his experience, we are frustrated with her but also are drawn to her. Without this essential piece the film flounders a little. Their banter doesn't fail but also doesn't light up the screen as much as I would have hoped. I'm not sure I ever was fully into their romance arc and it's such an important part of the story this pulled me out a bit.

The film most succeeds in the it lets Emma discover her faults and remake herself. Taylor-Joy's presence and gravitas helps with this. Despite all the levity, Emma does find its heart and makes it worth watching.

Emma
Starring: Anya Taylor-Joy, Johnny Flynn, Bill Nighy, Callum Turner, Josh O'Connor, Rupert Graves, Mia Goth, Miranda Heart, Gemma Whalen, Amber Anderson, Tanya Reynolds, Connor Swindles
Director: Autumn de Wilde
Writer: Elanor Catton