The Best Jane Austen Movies You Should See

The Best Jane Austen Movies You Should See

1. Pride and Prejudice (2005)

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When you first think of Jane Austen movies this is the obvious choice, but for good reason. Arguably the most famous of all the Austen adaptations, Joe Wright’s 2005 film is a lavish and distinguished modern classic which still resonates today. Starring charismatic leads Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen, the film expertly blended its devotion to Austen’s beloved novel with a modern sensibility, making it accessible to all audiences, whether they were familiar with the story or not. It’s a timeless tale of love, marriage and class set in picturesque Regency England.

This was also combined with a blue chip supporting cast of up and coming faces from the UK and abroad who would later go on to achieve Hollywood stardom, including Rosamund Pike, Jena Malone and Carey Mulligan, as well as British TV staples such as Judi Dench and Tom Hollander.

If you love Pride and Prejudice and want to see more of the beloved characters, look out for the BBC’s adaptation of Death Comes to Pemberley, P.D. James’s murder mystery themed sequel. Still don’t fancy checking out this world of engagements, romance and parties? Try 2016’s Pride and Prejudice and Zombies – a similar plot, but with a horror twist and much more bite.

2. Emma (2020)

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With a cast of exciting new faces, 2020’s adaptation of Jane Austen’s famous novel Emma is one of the year’s most hotly anticipated new releases. The film is the directorial debut of American director Autumn de Wilde, with an exciting and fresh style to ring in the new era.

The story is a classic tale which has been enjoyed by generations since its publication in 1815. The comedy of manners follows Emma Woodhouse, a wealthy and attractive young woman in Georgian England, as she attempts to matchmake for her friends and neighbours in her small village. Romance, heartbreak and misunderstanding ensues, with the happy couples married at the end, as all the best romance stories do.

The novel explores contemporary issues of gender and class in a way which still resonates with readers today, making it the perfect subject for a fresh adaptation in these changing times. The issues explored are those which continue to affect us to this day, keeping the novel relevant for over 200 years.

Whether you’re a die hard Austen fan or have only recently discovered her works, it’s always interesting to check out the latest adaptations of her novels, and especially one of the first from a female director.

3. Sense and Sensibility (1995)

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Back in 1811, Sense and Sensibility was originally published without Austen’s name accredited, and was simply said to be authored “By A Lady.” This gives some idea of the low regard in which female authors were held at this time and for many years after.

Ang Lee’s 1995 adaptation of Sense and Sensibility, along the novel it was based on, accordingly deals with issues similar to this one, including exploring issues of female independence and a woman’s place in a society which gave her very little power or agency. The film follows two sisters, Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, as they attempt to find a way out of financial strife by way of advantageous marriages. The issues of class and wealth in Regency England are explored, as in many of Austen’s novels. The lives and loves of the two sisters captured the imagination of viewers all over the world, and did their respective love interests; Colonel Brandon, played by the late great Alan Rickman, and Edward Ferrars, played by romantic comedy star Hugh Grant.

Both written by and starring the phenomenally talented Emma Thompson, the film was an instant hit with both critics and audiences, garnering rave reviews from all who saw it and steadfastly remaining a favourite rewatch to this day.

4. Northanger Abbey (2007)

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This lesser known but nonetheless accomplished adaptation was produced for TV by ITV in 2007, from Jane Austen’s first completed novel Northanger Abbey. It forms a part of a trilogy of Austen adaptations produced by ITV at the same time, along with Mansfield Park and Persuasion, in an effort to update the author’s work and introduce it to a new generation of viewers.

The protagonist Catherine Morland is played by Felicity Jones, who has since found fame starring in Hollywood blockbusters such as Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and prestigious Oscar winner The Theory Of Everything. Catherine is a slightly different heroine from the wise young women that she normally creates. Innocent and naive, she embarks on a journey of self discovery as she experiences the real world for the first time and attempts to differentiate it from the dark world of the Gothic novels that she loves.

Romance of course ensues, as does Austen’s trademark witty comedy and sharp observation of the mores of early 19th Century society. Famous screenwriter Andrew Davies adapted the screenplay from the novel, and it joins many of his other famous works including the BBC’s War and Peace and famous period drama series Little Dorrit.

5. Love & Friendship (2016)

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Based on one of Jane Austen’s lesser known works titled Lady Susan, Love & Friendship is nonetheless a valuable addition to any Austen fan’s collection of adaptations.

This glossy period drama features plenty of lighthearted comedy and heartfelt acting from its stars, including Kate Beckinsdale. It was also filmed at many picturesque locations across the UK and Ireland, many of which can be identified and visited by fans of the film. The plot follows the titular Lady Susan as she attempts to secure decent betrothals for both herself and her daughter. Gossip, prejudice and unreliable men hamper their efforts as they try to secure their futures.

It received both critical acclaim and commercial success upon its release, and is a sure crowd pleaser for any Austen fan or period drama lover. Whichever you choose, an adaptation is the perfect way of discovering more of one of Britain’s most famous authors.