The latest adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved classic Emma is made by BBC. Just days before the DVD release, the series is aired in three parts on PBS, as part of the Masterpiece Classic series.
 
Emma Woodhouse (Romola Garai) is a young and wealthy woman, who has no intention of getting married. Instead, she finds joy and satisfaction in matchmaking. After one big matchmaking success, Emma gains confidence in her new ability. In spite of skepticism from her father (Michael Gambon) and objections from her childhood friend George Knightley (Jonny Lee Miller), she decides to hook up Harriet Smith (Louise Dylan) with the vicar of the town, Mr. Elton (Blake Ritson).
 
Previously Emma has been played by actresses like Gwyneth Paltrow and Kate Beckinsale, and expectedly Romola Garai’s Emma is also the playful, witty, and fun loving woman that we are all familiar with. The transition of the main character in this mini-series is entertaining, especially when her good intentions backfire and she learns consequences. Actually she is a little clumsier and more overconfident and spoiled than the Emma I had in my imagination. However, these personality traits make this Emma even more fun to follow. Although Garai’s charms and talents are undeniable, she seems to act too hard at the beginning. Fortunately, her act tones down quickly, and when she teams up with veteran actors like Michael Gambon, her youthful energy and eagerness are further enhanced pleasantly.
 
What I love the most about this adaptation are the details including breathtaking landscapes and opulent costumes. The well coordinated colors of the wardrobes match brilliantly with the surroundings. Additionally, the outside scenes capture the wonderland of Emma. I also enjoyed the argumentative exchange between Emma and Mr. Knightley.
 
I am neither a Jane Austen aficionado nor an expert, so I was able to simply enjoy this adaptation without analyzing every single scene and word. I recommend this newest Emma not only to Jane Austen fans but also to anyone who is interested in period drama/romantic comedy.