This adaptation of the Jane Austen novel focuses on Emma, a meddling but well-meaning 21-year-old, who LOVES to play matchmaker. She's currently obsessed with finding the perfect man for her friend Harriet. But what appears to be a simple task becomes a nightmare, as Emma's machinations set off a chain reaction of misunderstandings between a number of people. Things only worsen when Emma attempts to set things straight. Emma may -- or may not -- succeed in finding a mate for her pal. But what's more important is that Emma will learn a few things about herself in the process.
Entertainment Weekly, 08/09/1996, p.43, "...[Paltrow's] signature style of youthful country freshness and city-chick sophistication are used to good advantage....A sunny tea party..." -- Rating:B
Chicago Sun-Times, 08/09/1996, p.33, "...EMMA is a delightful film....Gwyneth Paltrow sparkles in the title role..."
Premiere, 05/01/2005, p.112, "McGregor's part is small, but he hits his marks."
Rolling Stone, 08/22/1996, p.103-4, "...McGrath's script is faithful: fierce when it needs to be and devilishly funny....[EMMA] showcases Paltrow's talent, wit and daring..."
Variety, 06/17/1996, "Gwyneth Paltrow shines brightly as Jane Austen's most endearing character...
Title Note
Shown at the Seattle Film Festival June 7, 1996.
Released theatrically in New York City August 2, 1996.
Co-produced by Matchmaker Films and Haft Entertainment.
Color by Eastmancolor.
Additional cast: Edward Woodall (Robert Martin), John Franklyn Robbins (Mr. Cole), and Rebecca Craig (Miss Martin).
Actress Sophie Thompson is the sister of actress/screenwriter Emma Thompson, and Sophie's co-star Phyllida Law is the mother of both. Coincidentally, Emma Thompson adapted and starred in another film based on a Jane Austen novel, 1995's "Sense and Sensibility."
Product Quotation/Excerpt
"It's not my place to intrude in personal matters." -- Emma Woodhouse (GWYNETH PALTROW)
Distributor Note
Emma
This delightfully fun and lighthearted comedy is based on the story that inspired the hit movie CLUELESS! Dazzling Gwyneth Paltrow (SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE, THE ROYAL TENENBAUMS) shines as EMMA, a mischievous young beauty who sets up her single friends. Funny thing is ... she's not very good at it! So when Emma tries to find a man for Harriet (Toni Collette -- THE SIXTH SENSE, ABOUT A BOY), she makes a hilariously tangled mess of everyone's lives. You'll enjoy all the comic confusion ... until Emma herself falls in love, finally freeing everyone from her outrageously misguided attempts at matchmaking.
Source: Buena Vista Home Entertainment.
Release Note
DVD Features:
Region 1 Keep Case Letterboxed - 1.85:1 Audio: Dolby Surround - English Additional Release Material: Original Theatrical Trailer Interactive Features: Scene Access Interactive Menus
Product Notes
An elegant, deft adaptation of Jane Austen's 1816 comedy about a well-to-do young woman whose kindhearted attempts at matchmaking mask her own lack of romantic attachment. Academy Award Nominations: Best Original Musical or Comedy Score, Best Costume Design. Academy Awards: Best Original Musical or Comedy Score.
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