laurefirth Reviews

Emma (1996 TV Movie)

far, far superior to the gwyneth paltrow version

[5 April 2003]

This version of Emma is far richer, more believable, and more emotionally compelling than the movie version, which seems like a flighty tv sitcom in comparison (topped off with Paltrow's horrible nasal faux British accent). Both Kate Beckinsale and Mark Strong are fabulous in their interpretations of Emma and Mr. Knightley, and Raymond Coulthardt (where is this beautiful man hiding?) is just perfect as Frank Churchill. Mrs. Elton also more cleverly annoying than in the other version. This BBC version of Emma is in the same league as the BBC Pride & Prejudice, the Emma Thompson Sense and Sensibility, and the 90's version of Persuasion.

Sorry, Jeremy Northam (Mr. Knightley in Paltrow's Emma), you're normally brilliant, but you just signed up for the wrong one.

Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994)

this fabulous flick is in my all-time top 10

[5 April 2003]

I'm not even a huge Hugh Grant fan, but I LOVE this movie. I've seen it an embarrassingly large number of times, and it's the ultimate feel-better chick flick. But I suspect men like it also. It marries British wit with the American romantic comedy genre, for just the right mood. It's about finally getting together with that perfect someone, despite the fact you'd given up all hope. And it's just wonderful that the protagonist is a male, rather than a female.

If you like anything Jane Austen, or anything with Meg Ryan and/or Tom Hanks, you'll like this.