This is
by far the best production
of Emma, however, it is slow moving, and the acting is very symptomatic
of its period. Being a mini-series, there is enough space to flesh out
the characters in a like manner to those depicted by Austen.
What the production makes up for in characterisation, it loses in setting. The differences between studio, lot and location scenes are very revealing, but viewed in retrospect, the production is superlative for its period.
Dora Godwin is perfect as Emma, showing both her interfering, and her compassionate sides (the latter being entirely lacking from the '96 and '97 productions).
In all, this is a masterly work from the Beeb, which even now stands up to its rivals. Austen fans would be wise to acquire this video in preference to the later versions.