Persuasion

As the consummate literature dork, there are few things that I enjoy more than a good Jane Austen movie especially on an evening when I am feeling particularly independent and girly simultaneously. Being in such a mood for a good literary adaptation and period piece, tonight I watch Persuasion, a somewhat recent adaptation of Jane Austen's novel done by Masterpiece Theater. Having forgotten that I had seen this movie before, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. Persuasion has a more "old school" masterpiece feel in that it has very artsy, European stylings complete with lots of hand-held cameras. While I am usually not a fan of the steady-cam and it is certainly overused in this movie, an argument can be made for the effectiveness of this camerawork in this particular movie. Persuasion tells the story of Anne Elliot, a sensible and quiet 27 year old who seems to be quickly on her way to spinsterhood. Anne's family is selfish, obsessed with money and social status, and Anne is often forgotten and gets the raw end of most deals. In the very beginning of the story, the audience discovers that Anne was once in love with a handsome, upcoming naval captain, but with war on the horizon and the couple's youth and lack of financial stability and social standing, Anne was persuaded by her godmother and family to turn down Captain Wentworth's proposal. The couple is unexpectedly reunited eight years later, and the latent romantic tension explodes. Persuasion is really all about growing up, and Anne learning what is best for her and whose advise to take and whose to ignore. It is a very introspective story and, in many ways, a psychological romance. In that sense, the hand-held camera helps the viewer get into Anne's head and truly understand her. I particularly liked the few moments that Anne looked directly into the camera. The poignancy of her look gave a sense of real connection with the audience. Persuasion is certainly not the best of the recent Masterpiece Theaters (it does not hold a candle to Emma, but more on that later), but if you are in the mood for a good female period piece, it is quite enjoyable.

I give it an 8 out of 10.