Persuasion movie review : Book vs. movie adaptation
After finishing Persuasion, I decided to watch the Persuasion movie on Netflix, but I found it underwhelming—it just didn’t capture the story’s magic on screen.
Persuasion movie review : Book vs. movie adaptation
The cast did a wonderful job; each actor brought their character to life beautifully. There were, of course, several changes compared to the book:
Anne’s Characterization
In the book, Anne is portrayed as mature and melancholic, weighed down by regret and loss. In the movie, however, she appears fresh and lively. While she still displays her regret over past decisions and remains attached to Wentworth, she doesn’t seem plagued by grief in a way that dims her charm.
I especially enjoyed seeing her witty side, particularly in her humorous descriptions of her family, her perspective conveyed through her monologue-style dialogues, and her interactions with her nephews. However, I didn’t see her growth that was heart of the story in book.
Lady Russell’s Role
It was refreshing to see Anne openly express her displeasure and regret to Lady Russell, who, in turn, admits her mistake in judging Wentworth and sincerely apologizes. This added layer of resolution between them was a satisfying touch.
Wentworth’s Portrayal
Wentworth remained faithful to his book characterization, which was a relief. However, one notable change was the timing of a key conversation between him and Anne—it happened earlier, right before the accident in Lyme. This slightly altered their dynamic, adding a new layer to their interactions.
The Engagement Announcement Twist
The announcement of Louisa and the Captain’s engagement was one of the most impactful changes. While book-Anne anticipated this development, movie-Anne was caught off guard, making the scene far more emotional.
Mr. Elliot’s Intentions
Mr. Elliot’s character felt surprising and also confusing in the movie. While his intentions were made clear early on by him, his actions—such as proposing to Anne after boldly declaring his motives, acting jealous of Wentworth, and then being seen kissing Mrs. Clay the very next day—seemed weird. The absence of Mrs. Smith likely suppressed the full scope of his character, leaving viewers unfamiliar with the book confused by his behavior.
I loved seeing Anne and Wentworth’s happily-ever-after on screen. What stood out the most to me were the stunning homes, halls, and gardens of both families. The cinematography truly brought these settings to life, adding an extra layer of beauty to the story.
Yet, the cinematic charm couldn’t fully compensate for the depth and complexity of the book. The emotional intricacies and character arcs in the novel are what make it timeless, and many of these were either simplified or altered for the movie.
Overall, I enjoyed some of the changes in Persuasion movie, the book remains a richer and more profound experience.
Have you watched this adaptation?
Did you like the changes in the movie? What are your thoughts on it?
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Books Teacup and Reviews
Hi, I'm Yesha, an Indian book blogger. Avid and eclectic reader who loves to read with a cup of tea. Not born reader but I don't think I’m going to stop reading books in this life. “You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me.”
10 Comments
Rebecca
I’m one of the strange people who actually doesn’t like Persuasion as much, lol … However I do love Persuasion retellings and adaptations – I’ve not tried the Netflix movie yet, but I need to!
Books Teacup and Reviews
I think I liked persuasion more than Sense and Sensibility but not as much as Pride and Prejudice.
Lashaan Balasingam
I haven’t heard too many good things about this adaptation! I hope you get around to trying more adaptations! 😀
Books Teacup and Reviews
They made this too happy compared to the tone of the book but I liked the cat in this one. I’m definitely trying other adaptation.
Bookstooge
What year was this made in and who released it?
I’ve seen the mid-90s version which was pared down to the bone and I only enjoyed it because I’d enjoyed the book so much.
I’ve also seen the BBC 2008 (I think it’s 2008 anyway) version and thoroughly enjoyed it. The actress playing Anne really put her emotions into it.
If this version is available elsewhere off of Netflix, I can totally see myself watching it…
Books Teacup and Reviews
It’s latest one, 2022, and I think only available on Netflix.
Bookstooge
Thanks. I was afraid of that…
Carla
I am ashamed to admit it, but I haven’t read any of Austen’s books. I have seen several movies made from them, so I should probably read them, but so far, not. Nice comparisons, Yesha. I find it is not very often that a movie can measure up to a book.
Books Teacup and Reviews
I was the same until I read Pride and Prejudice and now this. I didn’t like P&P when I first read it and that is more because I’m used to modern romance but I could see why literature lover loves her books.
They changes things in movies that is sometimes good and sometimes not so good when is compared to book and that to a lover of book make it hard to like.
Carla
I will have to give one of her books a try and see what I think.