While Emma thrilled, Persuasion misses the mark with a modernized, “messy” Anne Elliot
Autumn de Wilde’s Emma (2020) set a new standard for Jane Austen adaptations by balancing Regency authenticity with a fresh, modern aesthetic. Vibrant with pastels and wittily faithful to Austen’s heroine, the film remains one of the best reimaginings of Austen’s world. In contrast, Netflix’s Persuasion feels like an off-kilter imitation of Emma.
Dakota Johnson’s Anne Elliot, the almost-spinster of Persuasion, is reimagined as a “relatable” character who frequently breaks the fourth wall. She drinks wine from the bottle, cries in the bath, and shares a knowing glance with viewers whenever her life grows difficult. The portrayal evokes Fleabag but lacks the depth, coming across as if someone tried to recreate Fleabag only through reaction GIFs on Twitter. The result feels out of sync with Austen’s nuanced storytelling, creating a fragmented experience for viewers.