Never Read the Book

Agreed. I never read the book either and I adore this film. I've seen it at least 20 times.

"What happens to a dream deferred?"

I like this movie as a stand-alone film, but I don't think anyone who has read the book first and liked it could really like this movie as an adaptation - it's just so different, and while I don't mind deviations from the book, I do mind when they are totally against the author's intentions and the feel of the novel.

Deviations/additions/slight changes where the essence of the novel is kept intact and even enhanced are what film adaptations are all about - and the best example I can think of is BBC's 2009 mini-series of 'Emma'. That was just gorgeous - watching it made me read the book again and look at it with a different eye, and made me notice so many more of the details and nuances. That mini-series is like the best English teacher you've ever had - taking books you never really thought about much and making you love them.



"I wish you to know that you have been the last dream of my soul."

After reading the book I watched both the 1983 version and this one as well. Perhaps if I had seen this beforehand I would have enjoyed it, but it was quite difficult because of how unfaithful it is to the novel. I am sure it makes for an interesting film in its own right, but not as a Jane Austen adaption.

As for the 1983 version, although it is definitely low budget, it was dead on. Similar to Pride & Prejudice 1995 and Emma 2008, it was like a living novel with its utter accuracy. Every scene was just as I pictured it, even the characters. I would say this film was a travesty by comparison, but there is no harm enjoying it for what it is. Being more of a Jane Austen purist myself, I just can't accept it.

I agree entirely with all the comments presented here. As a film, this is not bad. But, if you are looking for a relatively faithful portrayal of Mansfield Park - look elsewhere.

Well... All of Jane Austen's novels are fascinating, and anyone would benefit by reading them. MP was Austen's darkest themed storyline, so it does stand apart from the other, more comic novels.

In my opinion, it's perfectly fine to read the books and see the films, enjoying them as different art forms. It is rather surprising MP veered so far from the original story & characters, but this director has a different perspective. While not to everyone's tastes, MP film's odd, twisted story does echo how obviously Austen, felt saddened by Fanny's plight.

You never read the book? "Mansfield Park," like all of Jane Austen's novels, is much more entertaining and fulfilling than ANY two-hour (or so) movie could ever hope to be. Novels always allow you to use your imagination regarding what the characters - and places and scenery - look like/are like for yourself. The story is much larger and has more flavor. Shame on you for not reading the novel! There are libraries. 😉

"...question is why you won't come with me." "I don't have a passport." "What are you, American?"