It is a truth universally acknowledged that every moviegoer on a Friday night must be in want of a Jane Austen movie. Listed below are some of the best and brightest adaptations of Ms. Austen’s classic novels. Well-adapted dialogue, beautiful shooting locations, and brilliant acting talent, these classic novels to big screen films or made for television serials are must sees for any Jane Austen fan.
Jane Austen Classics Adapted to Film: Misguided Matchmaker, Emma
Jane Austen’s heroine matchmaker, Emma, has made the transition to film several times. Hollywood beauties such as American actress Gwyneth Paltrow and British beauty Kate Benkinsale have both played this naïve and spirited matchmaker. Jane Austen’s Emma, even inspired the 1995 teen movie, Clueless, starring nineties golden girl Alicia Silverstone in the title role.
The 1996 film starring Paltrow, Ewan McGregor, and Jeremy Norton, as the sensible and charming Mr. Knightly, is a worthwhile watch for any Jane Austen fan. The films picturesque shooting locations and stellar cast make the film visually arresting, as well as entertaining. The film also captures Austen’s wit and satire, making comedic, not painful, the follies of Austen’s society.
The recent 2009 Masterpiece Classic version is also worthy of an Austen fan’s time. Filmed in instalments, this work’s longer allotment of time allows it to more fully capture the novel and stay true to the text. Although most of the cast is not composed of A-list actors, all of them are well casted and together work as a strong ensemble. Romola Garai portrayal of the title role is fully developed and charming. This adaptation might be a better pick for true Austen purists.
Pride and Prejudice is another of Ms. Austen’s Novels Regularly Adapted
The epic romance between witty Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy is enjoyed both on the page and on the screen by Jane Austen enthusiasts. Pride and Prejudice was first adapted in the early 1940’s, starring famous 20th century British theatre artist Laurence Oliver and Greer Garson in the title roles. This popular work has gone on to receive several adaptations to the big screen, including a Bollywood film inspired from the novel, Bride and Prejudice.
The recent 2005 version starring Keira Knightly and Matthew Macfayden in the title roles received several academy award nominations. This picturesque period film boasted beautiful costumes, an all-star cast, and scenic shooting locations. The work also captured some of the grim realities of Austen’s society, in a stark, more realistic approach.
The earlier 1995 version starring Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle in the title roles also is a strong choice for Austen enthusiasts. Filmed in instalments, this work is able to depict more of the novel. With occasionally over the top comedic performances, this version captures more of Austen’s satiric humor then the grittier 2005 version. Additionally, Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle give strong performances throughout the series.
Sense and Sensibility as another Favorite Jane Austen Novel Adapted to Film
Jane Austen’s classic work, Sense and Sensibility, has also received several film adaptations.
The most acclaimed version is from 1995 and directed by Ang Lee. Splendidly acted by Alan Rickman, Kate Winslet, and Emma Thompson, this beautiful adaptation garnered a series of awards, including the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, written by Emma Thompson. The costumes and shooting locations are visually stunning. Perfectly casted, well directed, and beautifully filmed, this version is a must for any Austen lover.
Biographical Films about Jane Austen
If looking for films about the great novelist herself, check out PBS Masterpiece Classic Miss Austen Regrets. Miss Austen Regrets portrays a middle aged Austen looking back over her life. 2007 historical film Becoming Jane is also inspired from the popular novelist’s life.
Other Works by Jane Austen Adapted to the Screen
Many others of novels by British writer Jane Austen have been adapted to the screen including Persuasion, Northanger Abby, and Mansfield Park. With memorable characters, witty dialogue, and a deep understanding of English Regency society, Austen’s works continue to enthral and entertain audiences, both on the page and on the screen.
