Emma

Among Jane Austen's novels, Emma is second only to Pride and Prejudice in screen adaptations, which include two 1996 films—the theatrical feature starring Gwyneth Paltrow and the A&E made-for-cable version with Kate Beckinsale—and the popular 1995 high school update Clueless. But this latest effort, a sumptuous four-hour BBC miniseries which aired on PBS this year, is the best yet, remaining faithful to the book's narrative twists and distinctive voice while capturing its enormous charm. Romola Garai is attractive, without being overly glamorous, in the title role of the country girl and would-be matchmaker whose meddling never turns out quite as she hopes, while Jonny Lee Miller is stalwart without being conventionally handsome as Mr. Knightley, the childhood friend who's clearly her destined husband although she's slow to recognize it. The supporting cast is exemplary throughout, including Rupert Evans (as the suave Frank Churchill, whom Emma imagines as a suitor), Laura Pyper (as Jane Fairfax, the quiet, poor young girl with whom Emma has a tense relationship), Jodhi May (as the governess who marries Frank's father), and veteran Michael Gambon (as Emma's eccentric father). Add leisurely direction, beautiful locations, and impeccable period touches with lovely costumes, and the result is a version of Austen's masterpiece that should satisfy both the author's most dedicated readers and those coming to her work for the first time. DVD extras include a handful of production featurettes, as well as a brief but jovial interview with Gambon. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. (F. Swietek)