Focus Features has released the first trailer forEmma, starringAnya Taylor-Joyas the titular heroine of the new adaptation ofJane Austen’s novel of the same name. This is just the latest of a number of page-to-screen adaptations of Austen’s 1815 novel, with the most memorable adaptations being 1995’sCluelessstarringAlicia Silverstoneand 1996’s classic take starringGwyneth Paltrow.
Emmatells the story of Emma Woodhouse (Taylor-Joy), a young woman whose intentions are pure as she tried to find suitable romantic partners for her friends and loved ones. More often than not, Emma’s own idealized takes on love cloud her judgment, leading more often to miscommunication, disasters, and hilarity ensures than true happy endings. This latest version ofEmmais directed byAutumn de Wilde. In addition to Taylor Joy, theEmmacast includesMia Gothas Emma’s BFF Harriet Smith;Johnny Flynnas Mr. Knightley, a family friend of the Woodhouse’s who is as much a moral compass for Emma as he is a potential love interest;Billy Nighyplays Emma’s dad, Mr. Woodhouse;Gemma Whelan(Game of Thrones) will play Mrs. Weston;Josh O’Connor(The Crown) will portray oddball clergyman Mr. Elton; andCallum Turner(Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald) will play the rakish Frank Churchill who get entangled in a dicey love triangle with Emma.
This looks like a really fun update toEmma. It retains the period setting, but judging by the tone of the trailer, they’re going for something upbeat and vivacious without being anachronistic. That’s a tricky balance, but I like how colorful and fun this looks, and I’m eager to see the finished film when it arrives early next year.
Check out the trailer below.Emmaarrives in theaters on July 25, 2025.
Here’s the official synopsis forEmma:
Jane Austen’s beloved comedy about finding your equal and earning your happy ending, is reimagined in this delicious new film adaptation of EMMA. Handsome, clever, and rich, Emma Woodhouse is a restless queen bee without rivals in her sleepy little town. In this glittering satire of social class and the pain of growing up, Emma must adventure through misguided matches and romantic missteps to find the love that has been there all along.
