Anne of Green Gables - 1983

⭐ 10.0/10

(Originally written by Joseph)

So we watched most of this while in PEI, but the thing about this movie is that it is nearly 3.5 hours long and so we watched it in many sittings. When we finished it last night, I basically cried the entire final 30 minutes. This story has its full grip on my soul! I'd think that would be very weird except that being in PEI helps one understand what a sensation this story has been for over a century.

I watched this movie years ago with Jess, long before I read the book. I liked it back then, thinking it was funny and sweet, but ultimately too long. I think I'd maybe have the same assessment now if I hadn't read the book, but the book gave me a better appreciation of the movie. Again, it is very funny, very cute, and very authentic to both the books and the time period. The child actors are great, including Megan Follows, but I think the true magic comes from both Marilla and Matthew. What performances! They are perfect here.

The part that made me cry though, which I didn't really catch the first time, is how much these characters change! It's very hard to do in a movie, but Anne and the others grow up in front of our very eyes. The actors do quite a nice job here, especially Anne who has to go from being a loud child to a quiet, thoughtful teenager. That's a tough transition, but it's handled beautifully.

So anyways, that finale came and I bawled. It really is just so sweet. Bless this story. I've loved all of Montgomery's books, but this one really does stand on its own. I love it so much.

What else can I say... Well, Rachel Lynde is given no justice here. She's one of my favorites from the books, but she's a complete villain here.... Also, Gilbert! Where did they find such a hunky teenager? So dreamy. I'd forgive him straightaway. Also... Well I'll just mention again that Matthew and Marilla are A+ characters and the performances here are amazing, because that deserves to be said twice.

So yeah, I want to say I recommend reading the book, but I'm starting to get defensive of it. I really couldn't bear someone reading it and saying something bad about it. Jess was brave to give it to me (see my profile pic) but she's lucky I'm a man of taste. You guys really just wouldn't understand the humour, the sweetness, and the soul of this story. I won't throw my pearls to pigs. Stay away from this movie and book, they are just between Lucy and me (and Jess).