Jane Austen into Films
Film adaptations of Jane Austen's novels
Jane Austen’s six novels have been endlessly adapted for a long time now and they still are which proves her everlasting popularity due to the universal topics tackled in them.
Just in 2007 the BBC produced the adaptations of three of her novels for the television. However, film adaptations date back to 1938 when Pride and Prejudice was first presented on television. Since then there have been over sixty different adaptations (either directly based on her novels or inspired by them).
As it often happens, if you like the film, you will most surely love the book. So let’s become acquainted with this great author through some of the most acclaimed adaptations of her novels in the hope that one day you will feel the impulse to read the original texts.
Northanger Abbey
This is a 2007 British television film adaptation of Jane Austen's novel. It was directed by British television director Jon Jones and the screenplay was written by Andrew Davies. Felicity Jones stars as the protagonist Catherine Morland and JJ Feild plays her love interest Henry Tilney.
Catherine Morland has an ordinary life and a feverish imagination. When she gets invited to Bath, Catherine is immersed in a world of elaborate balls and handsome men. When one suitor takes her to his family estate, Northanger Abbey, Catherine becomes mired in a world of fact and fantasy. Is there a dark mystery behind the locked doors of Northanger Abbey? Why has her budding romance suddenly been cut short?
The Trailer
Other film adaptations worth watching...
The 1986 made-for-television film adaptation
Emma
This is the 1996 adaptation. It was directed by Douglas McGrath. The film stars Gwyneth Paltrow as Emma and Jeremy Northam as Mr. Knightly.
Emma Woodhouse is a congenial young lady who delights in meddling in other people's affairs. She is perpetually trying to unite men and women who are utterly wrong for each other. Despite her interest in romance, Emma is clueless about her own feelings, and her relationship with gentle Mr. Knightly.
The Trailer
Other film adaptations worth watching...
Emma TV movie, 1996
Emma TV Mini-Series 2009
Mansfield Park
At 10, Fanny Price, a poor relation, goes to live at Mansfield Park, the estate of her aunt's husband, Sir Thomas. Clever, studious, and a writer with an ironic imagination and fine moral compass, she becomes especially close to Edmund, Thomas's younger son.
Fanny is soon possessed of beauty as well as a keen mind and comes to the attention of a neighbor, Henry Crawford. Thomas promotes this match, but to his displeasure, Fanny has a mind of her own, asking Henry to prove himself worthy. As Edmund courts Henry's sister and as light shines on the link between Thomas's fortunes and New World slavery, Fanny must assess Henry's character and assert her heart as well as her wit.
The Trailer
Other film adaptation worth watching...
Mansfield Park, TV movie, 2007
Persuasion
The Trailer
Other film adaptations worth watching...
Persuasion 1995
Sense and Sensibility
When Mr. Dashwood dies, he must leave the bulk of his estate to the son by his first marriage, which leaves his second wife and their three daughters (Elinor, Marianne, and Margaret) in straitened circumstances.
They are taken in by a kindly cousin, but their lack of fortune affects the marriage ability of both practical Elinor and romantic Marianne.
When Elinor forms an attachment for the wealthy Edward Ferrars, his family disapproves and separates them. And though Mrs. Jennings tries to match the worthy (and rich) Colonel Brandon to her, Marianne finds the dashing and fiery John Willoughby more to her taste. Both relationships are sorely tried.
The Trailer
Other film adaptation worth watching...
Sense and Sensibility, TV Mini series, 2008
Pride and Prejudice
Sparks fly when spirited Elizabeth Bennet meets single, rich, and proud Mr. Darcy.
But Mr. Darcy reluctantly finds himself falling in love with a woman beneath his class.
Can each overcome their own pride and prejudice?
The Trailer
Other film adaptations worth watching...
Pride and Prejudice, TV Mini series, 1995
