Ep 4. Episode 4

Emma (2009) is a television adaptation of the classic Jane Austen novel about a wealthy and privileged young woman named Emma Woodhouse. Season 1 Episode 4 is an important installment in the series, as it showcases the tension that arises when Emma's misguided matchmaking efforts go awry.

The episode opens with Emma (played by Romola Garai) receiving a visit from her former governess, Miss Taylor (Jodhi May), who has recently married and become Mrs. Weston. Emma is pleased with the match, as she takes credit for making it happen, and basks in the glow of her successful matchmaking skills.

Meanwhile, Emma's friend Harriet Smith (Louise Dylan) is still besotted with Mr. Elton (Blake Ritson), the local vicar, despite Emma's efforts to dissuade her. Emma is convinced that Mr. Elton is too good for Harriet, and instead tries to set her up with the charming and handsome Mr. Knightley (Jonny Lee Miller). However, Mr. Knightley is not interested in Harriet and gently rebuffs Emma's attempts to pair them together.

Emma's meddling reaches a new level when she sets her sights on matchmaking for Mr. Elton himself. She believes that he is secretly in love with her and sets about trying to engineer a match between him and Harriet. However, her plans backfire spectacularly when Mr. Elton declares his love for Emma instead, leaving her shocked and dismayed.

As Emma tries to navigate the fallout from her failed matchmaking attempts, she also has to contend with other dramas in her life. Her father, Mr. Woodhouse (Michael Gambon), is becoming increasingly frail and dependent on her. She also has to deal with the arrival of the mysterious and enigmatic Frank Churchill (Rupert Evans), who has been making waves in the local community with his flirtatious ways.

Despite the setbacks and complications that arise in this episode, Emma remains determined to meddle in the romantic affairs of those around her. Her actions may be misguided and often have unintended consequences, but they also showcase her kind-hearted nature and her desire to see those she cares about happy.

Overall, Season 1 Episode 4 of Emma (2009) is a delightful and charming installment in the series. It showcases the wit and charm of the original Austen novel, and is brought to life by a wonderful cast of actors. Fans of the novel and of period dramas in general will enjoy this episode and the rest of the series.