Reviews

Jane Austen's Emma is an extremely enjoyable story at the worst of times and this production of the story is the best I have ever seen. Kake Beckinsale's Emma is irreproachable. Gwyneth Paltrow, (with the help of a good screenplay and excellent cinematography) is able to bring out the comedy effectively, she fails to make Emma likeable. Paltrow is not aided by the fact that her hairstyles are simply 'wrong' for the part (and I believe the era) and she looks positively ill in the empire line dresses. Kate Beckinsale, on the other hand, manages the comedy effortlessly and is still able to show what Mr Knightly (the most romantic of Jane Austen's heroes) actually sees in her. Mark Strong is a splendid Mr Knightly with the right mix of handsome looks, an appropriate age, chivalry, compassion and gentlemanly behaviour. Emma and Mr Knightly are supported by a cast of good actors and the production as a whole is quite delightful.

Cold Comfort Farm is one of the most skillfully made film in existence. The essence of the book was captured by the film, which seems to be extremely rare. While there were some aspects of the book that could not possibly have been brought to the screen,(including a good deal of witty narrative), there are many classic moments in the film that never appeared or were not used to their full advantage in the book. An example of this was Flora's marvellous conversation with Mr Mybug (Myerburg) in the coffee shop (especially regarding D.H. Lawrence and Branwell Bronte). While many films spoil a book, I believe this film makes the book even more enjoyable to read as Kate Beckinsale's depiction of Flora (as well as the performances of the remainder of the flawless cast) add texture to the already colourful characters. If you have read the book and enjoyed it, watch the film. If you have seen the film, I would strongly recommend the book. The essence is the same but they both add to the story in ways that the other can't.