Ed's opinion of Jane Austen adaptations
When Starring Ed's opinion
Pride and Prejudice
1940Greer Garson, Laurence Olivier A total delight. Wonderful story and wonderful character actors. And of course Greer is there.
1980 (BBC)Elizabeth Garvie, David Rintoul Faithful and sweet. Garvie is very charming. Rintoul is not terribly interesting. Other actors are wonderful, especially the Gardiners. Osmund Bullock is the Bingley-est of all the Bingleys.
1995Colin Firth, Jennifer Ehle Not as faithful as 1980. Bad casting throughout, except for David Bamber. Gaudy costumes and Firth's sex appeal have made this one popular.
2005Keira Knightley, Matthew MacFadyen Gorgeous and sumptuous. Keira and Matthew are downright thrilling to watch. Netherfield Ball sequence is sensational.
Sense and Sensibility
1980-ish (BBC) Nice and BBC-sweet.
1995Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant Funny and charming.
2008Hattie Morahan, Dan Stevens Haven't seen it yet.
Emma
1972 (BBC) Quite good. The Knightley-est Knightley. Best of the old BBCs, except for "P&P".
1996Kate Beckinsale Darker, but good. Also has a good Knightley.
1996Gwyneth Paltrow, Jeremy Northam A joy. Paltrow is terrific. I love Northam's Knightley. Soundtrack is superb. Archery scene is brilliant.
Mansfield Park
1983 (BBC) Tedious.
1999Frances O'Connor Delightful. Music, scenery. O'Connor is very fetching.
Persuasion
1971 (BBC) Tedious. Admiral Croft disappointed me.
1995Amanda Root, Ciarin Hinds Perhaps the best of all the Jane Austen adaptations. Outstanding in every way.