Persuasion (2022)

I’ve read the novel and seen all the films. I love, love, love Austen but I’m not a purist - coexistence of all texts is possible in my mind. Overall, I enjoyed the 2022 Netflix production of Persuasion. While it's more of an 'free adaptation' rather than a 'commentary' or 'transposition', it is a decidedly refreshing interpretation of the original text.

Implausible Parts

1. It seems unlikely that the Anne in this film could have been persuaded into doing anything against her will (she was 19 and Wentworth had no notability, so perhaps she was influenced).

2. Anne Elliot would have never pointed out that she was Charles Musgrave’s first choice for a wife.
3. Anne’s octopus story upon meeting Lady Dalrymple was quite simply bizarre.

Funny Moments

1. Allusions to 'Bridget Jones's Diary'
2. Anne’s sassy internal monologues 
3. Anne’s attempt to do a ‘bush wee’ (crude but relatable)

Unusual or Perplexing Elements

1.  Breaking of the 4th wall (once is nice; numerous is unnerving)
2. Rabbit motif (featured with Anne in several scenes)
3. Anne seeking a long, tight hug from her nephew to feel some affection (I’ve never been keen on adults soliciting such hugs from children in this manner)
4. Wentworth is played as too stiff and formal, which clashes with Anne’s more relaxed persona.

Strengths

1. Shows the lovers’ past relationship at the start of the film, providing an insight into their bond
2. Gorgeous cinematography
3. Clever score and non-diegetic sound choices
4. First person point of view (Anne’s)
5. Louisa Musgrave's defence of Anne’s character (despite her own interest in Frederick Wentworth)

“Nobody tells you when you are young that life keeps going. It keeps going whether you approve of the progression or not. Eventually you find yourself wondering, ‘How did I end up here?’” (Anne Elliot)