Anne of Green Gables

Directed by John Kent Harrison, this 2016 addition to the throng of adaptations of the classic Canadian YA novels by Lucy Maud Montgomery casts Martin Sheen in the role of mild-mannered farm worker Matthew Cuthbert. The Golden Globe and SAG award-winning actor almost immediately has his face smeared in mud after a pig incident, setting the tone for this disappointing production starring Ella Ballentine as the wordy orphan who comes to steal the hearts of Matthew and his crotchety spinster sister Marilla (Sara Botsford). The doll-faced Ballentine's obviously dyed red hair and ever-changing fake freckles detract from the beloved character's awkward charm, and added scenes that are not found in the original stories—including a lame ice rescue to showcase Matthew and Anne's strengthening familial bond—are more mystifying than engrossing. Rumor has it that two sequels have been ordered with the featured cast reprising their roles. Not in the same league as Kevin Sullivan's heartwarming 1980s miniseries starring Colleen Dewhurst, Richard Farnsworth, and Megan Follows (who many consider the definitive Anne), this will likely still attract interest and should be considered a strong optional purchase. (J. Williams-Wood)