Emma (1996)

In early 19th century England, a well meaning if slightly snobbish young lady (Gwyneth Paltrow) of breeding fancies herself a matchmaker. When she attempts to secure a proper mate for her friend Harriet (Toni Collette), misunderstanding and unhappiness abound. Based on the 1815 novel by Jane Austen, director Doug McGrath's film (he also adapted Austen's novel for the screen) is utterly charming. McGrath manages to avoid the musty over respectful BBC Masterpiece Theater style which often mars film adaptations of classic novels. McGrath's touch is airy and light and in Paltrow, he has found the ideal actress to inhabit Austen's heroine. The film has warmth, it has wit and it has an excellent cast to support Paltrow. The one weak link may be Ewan McGregor who seems out of place though not problematically so. The Oscar winning score is by Rachel Portman (the first woman to win a best score Oscar). With Greta Scacchi, Alan Cumming, Jeremy Northam, Polly Walker, Juliet Stevenson, Sophie Thompson and Kathleen Byron.