Emma (2009)
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Emma (2009)
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Emma is an enjoyable mini-series, adapted from Jane Austen's novel of the same name, and stars Romola Garai in the title role. It is a costume drama set in the early 19th century that follows the lives of high society and frequently refers to class and wealth. In keeping with the original source material, there is little to offend here in terms of language, sex, or violence, though characters do drink alcohol in mild amounts on occasion. Though romance is at the heart of the story, a brief kiss on the lips is as racy as it gets. Death is mentioned, including the loss of a mother, and a dead body is shown in a casket. Well made and perfectly cast, the series is lively and fun, and will likely hold younger viewers' attention more than the genre might imply.
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What's the Story?
In EMMA, wealthy young woman Emma Woodhouse (Romola Garai) spends her time using her self-proclaimed matchmaking skills to meddle in the love lives of those around her. After befriending Harriet (Louise Dylan), Emma sets her attentions on finding her the perfect husband. But when things don't quite go to plan, she begins to learn that love can't be organized, and perhaps she herself isn't quite as immune to it as she thought.
Is It Any Good?
There's no shortage of Jane Austen adaptations on-screen, but few really capture the essence to impress purists. This 2009 mini-series of the much-loved Emma makes a strong attempt, led by a vivid central performance from Garai as the cheerfully misguided matchmaker. Channeling some of the unpredictability and impulsiveness that Alicia Silverstone brought to the role in the 1995 teen adaptation, Clueless, alongside a more refrained and considered approach in keeping with the period, Garai quite rightfully steals the show and is captivating to watch throughout the four episodes. Only Tamsin Greig momentarily diverts attention from the Golden Globe nominee, her comedy chops honed to perfection as town bore Miss Bates.
The costume and set design are stunning, bringing the era to life in fantastic detail, from hushed parlors and elegant ballrooms to busy markets and acres of wide-open grounds. Period dramas can get a bad reputation as a bit of an endurance test, but these four episodes fly by, light and whimsical, and full of humor to boot. A strong adaptation to add to a prolific literary cannon.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how this version of Emma compares with others. What were the similarities and what were the differences? Which did you prefer? Why do you think the story still remains popular today?
What are Emma's motivations? Did you like her as a character? What character strengths did she show?
Discuss society's views on marriage in the TV series. How do they differ today?
What techniques are used to create a sense of time and place in the show? What is the appeal of period dramas such as this?
TV Details
- Premiere date: January 24, 2010
- Cast: Romola Garai, Michael Gambon, Jonny Lee Miller
- Network: HBO Max
- Genre: Drama
- Topics: Book Characters, Friendship
- Character Strengths: Perseverance
- TV rating: NR
- Last updated: March 26, 2023
For kids who love TV shows based on books
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