71
Metascore
48 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 85TheWrapRobert AbeleTheWrapRobert AbeleMr. Woodhouse’s daughter may be a case study in the perils of playing God with others’ hearts, but Emma. is proof that bringing a timeless book and fresh talent together is still a worthy kind of artistic matchmaking.
- 83IndieWireDavid EhrlichIndieWireDavid EhrlichDe Wilde doesn’t strain for relevance or reinvent the wheel, she just unapologetically serves dessert for dinner until you’re left with the satisfaction of eating a three-course meal.
- 80VarietyAndrew BarkerVarietyAndrew BarkerThere’s something quite comforting in seeing her (Austen) work returned to a more natural habitat: adapted into handsome, clever, faithfully unambitious films like Autumn de Wilde’s Emma.
- 75The A.V. ClubCaroline SiedeThe A.V. ClubCaroline SiedeAnchoring it all is horror darling Anya Taylor-Joy, who makes for a particularly icy Emma.
- 70The Hollywood ReporterCaryn JamesThe Hollywood ReporterCaryn JamesDe Wilde and Catton deliver a largely faithful and unchallenging adaptation, beautifully staged and sharply acted by a cast adept at balancing wit and romance.
- 70SlashfilmHoai-Tran BuiSlashfilmHoai-Tran BuiThere’s artificiality to Emma. that, while it makes it a joy to watch and admire, doesn’t leave us with much of a lasting impact. But despite all that, it is refreshing to see an Austen adaptation that finally captures the author’s witty, satirical talents.
- 60Screen DailyTim GriersonScreen DailyTim GriersonWhile the story’s sturdy, familiar structure remains resonant, this version never feels particularly inspired or revelatory, despite some lovely moments scattered throughout.
- 60CineVueChristopher MachellCineVueChristopher MachellThis version of Emma. is unlikely to win any accolades for invention. Indeed the 1996 film Clueless arguably remains the most exciting version of Austen’s novel. Nevertheless, de Wilde’s version is a confident and lively translation of Austen’s wit on to the screen.
- 60The Observer (UK)Mark KermodeThe Observer (UK)Mark KermodeIn the lead role, Anya Taylor-Joy creates an admirably spiky character who is less likable than some of her screen predecessors, and all the better for it.