For those of you who saw it in theaters (or also for the many who have now see it early at home), Emma. probably captured your imagination in a way most literary adaptations don't. The modern humor, art direction, music, and performances were anything but traditional.
That being said, it seems to have captured the hearts of those who love Jane Austen's work as well as those who remain unfamiliar. If you loved the beautiful sets and costumes, the quick-witted humor, and the romance of it all, here are some films you should give a watch next.
Pride And Prejudice (2005)
Emma. is anything but a traditional Jane Austen adaptation. If you want something a bit more straightforward and traditionally romantic, perhaps you should give the 2005 take on Jane Austen's classic novel Pride and Prejudice.
Starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen, this is one of the most celebrated adaptations of the classic novel. The sweeping landscapes and beautifully crafted costumes will transport you back into this time of romance. Though not as unique as Emma. the film still captures that quintessential Jane Austen feel.
The Witch (2015)
In the starring role of Emma. was none other than Anya Taylor-Joy. This actress has made quite the name for herself in the past five years. Appearing in big-budget films as well as small indies, she has come a long way since her debut in 2015's The Witch.
Focusing on a family of Puritan settlers, The Witch is like The Shining in Salem. As this Witch terrorizes this family, their entire trust in one another crumbles into nothing. Without a doubt, this remains Anya Taylor-Joy's best performance.
The Favourite (2018)
Emma. is full of sharp humor and delves into relationships, both familial, romantic, and social. At the end of it all is a happy conclusion for a majority of the characters. If you're looking for a period drama in England that results in some harsher consequences for bad behavior, might we suggest The Favourite?
The film focuses on the reign of Queen Anne as her two closes confidants vie for the favor of the queen. It explores the nightmares of courtly life and politics as well as the treatment of women and queer relationships. If you want an offbeat historical dark comedy this is your best bet.
Jane Eyre (2011)
On the other end of classic British literature is Charlotte Bronte, who serves almost as a far dark and complicated version of Jane Austen. If you're missing some atmospheric shots of abandoned moors, Jane Eyre is the film for you.
The film stars Mia Wasikowska, Michael Fassbender, and Judi Dench in some really stellar roles. It also serves as a visual feast and is gorgeous to look at, with Cary Joji Fukunaga directing it superbly. It contains a lot of the similar set dressing and costuming as Emma. but with a little bit harder of an edge.
The Draughtsman's Contract (1982)
Similarly to The Favourite, The Draughtsman's Contract is all about the aristocracy behaving badly, and the director making fools of them. The film details Mr. Neville, a draftsman hired to make a selection of sketching of a country estate for a lord and lady.
Apart from getting paid, part of the arrangement includes sleeping with the lady of the house. The film is so well assembled by Peter Greenway, and the script is so sharp. Just when you think you know what is happening, a brand new development turns the film on its head.
Thoroughbreds (2017)
Emma. worked really well with today's audiences thanks to some of the modern mannerisms of its performances and the high energy of the editing and humor. Thoroughbreds could give you a similar feel but actually set in modern times.
Detailing the high-class teens of the northeast, the film is a sharp-edged and occasionally violent look at boredom among a bunch of young psychopaths. It's weird and twisted, and one hell of a ride. It also features you're favorite moody Anya Taylor-Joy as a co-lead.
Clueless (1995)
Emma. isn't the first modern adaptation of the classic novel, and it's also not even the most extreme departure. If you weren't aware, the classic teen comedy Clueless is actually an adaptation of Jane Austen's novel, set in contemporary Southern California.
The film is a classic of the mid-nineties featuring Alicia Silverstone and Paul Rudd in the lead roles. It's super funny and entertaining and a great way to reimagine the basic premise of the classic story. While it might not capture the same sort of prestige as other adaptations, it's still a great film on its own.
The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)
Some have compared much of Emma.'s visual style to that of Wes Anderson, the auteur filmmaker behind classics like The Royal Tenenbaums and Rushmore. Emma. certainly has a visual language all its own, but there are still a lot of similarities both in tone and look.
If you loved Emma. and want a Wes Anderson film to follow up with it, The Grand Budapest Hotel is maybe the closest cousin. The film shares many of the same color palettes as Emma. and also serves as a period piece. It is a ton of fun and carries a lot of heart compared to other Wes Anderson movies.
The Madness Of King George (1994)
The Madness of King George is a quirky and strange historical drama that is equally heartbreaking. The film is set during the reign of King George III, and showcases his slow mental deterioration. Because of this, his antics drive his palace into a frenzy.
Helen Mirren is such a highlight in this film as Queen Charlotte, and Nigel Hawthorne's commitment to the role has to be seen to be believed. The film has laughs but it certainly is heartbreaking to see someone fall apart at such a dramatic pace.
Little Women (2019)
Last year's Little Women seems like the start of a modern wave of literary adaptations, with Emma. to follow as well as the upcoming The Personal History of David Copperfield later this year. The films capture the spirit of the original novels but bring modern and youthful energy to the proceedings.
The performances in Little Women were literally oscar worthy, with multiple actors getting nominations. The real star though is Great Gerwig's perfect direction. The way she updates and uniquely adapts the classic novel is unlike anything seen before.