Netflix Persuasion 2022: Quick review.

So I have watched the new film, and let me tell you I am not too proud a person to say when I am wrong.

As a whole the film wasn’t painful to watch! *sigh of relief.

Was I wrong with my initial concerns NO, was I pleasantly surprised by some aspects of the film YES.

Things I liked:

I loved the portrayals of Sir Walter Elliot, Mary (Elliot) Musgrove, Elizabeth Elliot and Lady Russell.

The aesthetic! - Very much like the 2020 Emma was stunning, and I am planning my future bedroom in the style of Anne’s.

The clothes - definitely a modern take but I liked the vibe.

The cast diversity - thank heavens for Bridgerton and other works for making this the norm for period dramas, not sure why it took so long but I am here for it.

I loved the rabbit - what the rabbit was about I don’t know, but super cute!

Things I didn’t like:

The constant and I mean constant breaking of the forth wall… omg we get it ok we don’t need everything spelling out! The book is about what’s not said until the end, and this was very much a question of what wasn’t said.

Some missed scenes and some added scenes which I think missed the essence of the book… there wasn’t much secret longing more open stalking.

Anne’s almost dependency on wine - again a fun modern tweak, but it was rare to see her without a glass or bottle in hand.

Aspects of Anne and Wentworth’s characters were off for me - notably a scene when Anne, almost in a cruel way, embarrasses herself and her family at the dinner table. Wentworth on the other hand looks a little like a lost puppy for a lot of the film.

The changed dialog - often awkward and unnecessary!.

The letter scene - didn’t do it for me I am afraid.

As a whole I felt as though I was watching an adaption of the 2007 Persuasion film mashed with the 2020 Emma, as opposed to something directly inspired by the novel. Elements like breaking the forth wall, the running scene etc. interwind with a beautiful aesthetic and caricature personalities.

I am going to go into more detail on my podcast so stay tuned for an episode coming out this month!

Would love to know your thoughts, come chat with me over on instagram @whattheausten

Izzy x