From her first novel, Sense and Sensibility, to her final novel, Persuasion, Jane Austen’s works are nothing short of revolutionary. Her novels’ deft explorations of class, femininity and love have spawned countless film adaptations that still resonate today, 250 years after her birth. Whether you know Austen’s novels and their adaptations forwards and backwards or are just dipping your toes into her repertoire, we’ve gathered the best film adaptations in one place.
Pride and Prejudice (1995)
This list wouldn’t be complete without BBC’s six-part adaptation of one of Austen’s most beloved novels, which many view as the gold standard of Austen adaptations. Jennifer Ehle takes on the role of Elizabeth Bennet, who must contend with the constant pressure to marry. When the aloof Mr. Darcy arrives in town with his friend Mr. Bingley, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy are immediately at odds. Elizabeth struggles to see Mr. Darcy’s true character, while Mr. Darcy holds a derisive attitude towards Elizabeth due to her lower social standing. But somehow, their prejudices melt, leaving something far more volatile in its place. Find this acclaimed series on Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video and Peacock, among others.
Persuasion (1995)
Amanda Root shines as wealthy spinster Anne Elliot, who has given up on marriage ever since she broke off her engagement to Captain Frederick Wentworth (Ciarán Hinds) eight years prior. But when Frederick enters her life once again, Anne must resist outside forces attempting to tear them apart once more. Austen’s 1817 novel of the same name is considered to be one of her more mature works, featuring older characters and exploring the power of second chances rather than initial courtship. This adaptation won 5 BAFTAs for its costume design, music, lighting and screenwriting. Available on Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video.
Clueless (1995)
Forgetting to include this clever modern retelling of Emma? Ugh, as if! Alicia Silverstone heads the cast as Cher, whose matchmaking misadventures reflect that of the source material with a modern twist. How fitting that Emma, a cultural phenomenon in its own right, inspired one of the most iconic movies of all time that not only brings a classic into the twentieth century, but deftly satirizes the glamorous vanity of Beverly Hills and the upper class. Stream this classic on Apple TV, Paramount+ and more.
Sense and Sensibility (1995)
This acclaimed film, nominated for several Oscars, follows sisters Elinor (Emma Thompson) and Marianne (Kate Winslet) after the death of their father leaves them nearly penniless. In order to avoid falling into poverty, they must contend with their oldest brother, John, and his snobbish wife, Fanny, who have inherited the majority of the family’s wealth. Elinor and Marianne, along with their younger sister take refuge in a relative’s small cottage, where they must contend with multiple suitors who aren’t quite as they seem. This film is celebrated for its faithfulness to the original novel, especially its exploration of sibling relationships in addition to romance. You can rent or buy this film on Amazon Prime or tune in on Apple TV.
Emma (1996)
Out of the several Emma adaptations, this one is celebrated for Gwyneth Paltrow’s portrayal as Emma, as well as its idyllic ambiance and elegant costumes. Viewers will delight in watching Emma’s brazen attempts to act as matchmaker for her friends and relatives, all while neglecting the budding romance right in front of her eyes. The turbulence of adolescence and the elusiveness of true love are on full display here. Find this film on Apple TV or BritBox.
Mansfield Park (1999)
Though Mansfield Park was Austen’s favorite of her own novels, adaptations of it are harder to come by. This 1999 version, starring Frances O’Connor as leading lady Fanny Price, chronicles Fanny’s time living with her wealthy uncle to prepare for her introduction into society. She must contend with snobbish relatives and the unexpected arrival of siblings Mary and Henry, which throw her carefully constructed world into chaos. Available on Paramount+.
Pride and Prejudice (2005)
Perhaps the most well-known Jane Austen adaptation, this Pride and Prejudice lets certain aspects of accuracy slide in favor of a faster pace and breathless romance. Keira Knightley plays Elizabeth Bennet, while Matthew Macfadyen takes on the role of Mr. Darcy. This film is, above all, a masterclass in slow-burn romance (i.e. the hand flex — IYKYK) and occupies a beloved place in the romance sphere. It can be found on a variety of streaming services, including Amazon Prime Video, Peacock and Apple TV.
Persuasion (2007)
This version of Persuasion won multiple awards, including the Golden Nymph for Best Performance by an Actress and Best Performance by an Actor at the Monte-Carlo TV festival. Sally Hawkins and Rupert Penry-Jones portray the at-odds former couple Anne Elliot and Frederick Wentworth, who rekindle their relationship after Anne was forced to break off their engagement eight years ago. The film is available on Amazon Prime.
Love & Friendship (2016)
Based on Austen’s posthumously published epistolary novel titled Lady Susan, this comedy depicts Lady Susan Vernon’s matchmaking schemes for her daughter at her in-laws’ estate. And while she’s at it, Lady Susan might just find a lover for herself as well. Kate Beckinsale plays the hilarious manipulative Lady Susan, and the vibrant supporting cast rounds out this adaptation. Watch on Amazon Prime Video.
Emma (2020)
The most recent adaptation of Emma is a somewhat looser interpretation that leans into the comedic aspects of this work. Anya Taylor-Joy plays the titular Emma and is praised for her ability to bring Emma’s matchmaking chaos to life. Viewers also appreciate the meticulous costuming and overall visual appeal of the film. You can find this film on Amazon Prime Video and Peacock.
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