Anne of Green Gables

For those of us who have loved L.M. Montgomery's books as both children and adults every depiction of them is very closely scrutinised. This Kevin Sullivan production is the only one that has come up to scratch, which isn't surprising as earlier attempts have failed abysmally (one even had Diana played by an insipid blonde!).But with faithful scripting, inspired casting, excellent direction and beautiful camera work, there is simply nothing negative to be said about this show. Sullivan sticks very closely to the original book and all the characters, from the central ones right down to those we hardly ever see, such as silly Ruby Gillis and spiteful Josie Pye, are superbly and sensitively observed by the actors portraying them.

I have read and re-read many favourite books but never before have I found myself imagining the characters as the actors who played them on screen - especially having read the books at least twice over before seeing any production of them. The highest complement I can pay to the cast of Sullivan's "Anne of Green Gables" is that any previous images I might have had of these much loved characters were wiped out of mind by their wonderful depictions of them. Richard Farnsworth, Colleen Dewhurst, Schuyler Grant, Jonathan Crombie and Patricia Hamilton were all brilliant. As for Megan Follows - well, what can I say? She is a truly wonderful actress (not only on the strength of this performance) and no one could ever match her portrayal of Anne Shirley.

One last thing - if there are any fans of "The Kids in the Hall" reading this watch out for Bruce McCulloch as Fred Wright... you'll fall out of your chair! (And Dave Foley has a cameo in the sequel).

Anne of Green Gables is a movie that holds a special place in my heart. I first saw this with my mother years ago, and it quickly became our favorite movie. We must have watched it every time we were together. And no matter how many times we watched it, every viewing always seemed like the first time all over again. We laughed and cried at all the same places, and couldn't wait until the day when Gilbert and Anne would finally be together. My mother developed cancer and suffered for two years. This movie was a wonderful escape for her and myself. I lost her 4 months ago, and at first I thought I would never be able to watch this movie ever again, but I was wrong. It only means that much more to me now. For now it holds even more wonderful memories. This is a movie that is meant to be shared with someone special. Just as I did.

This 1985 Anne of Green Gables has always been one of my all-time favourites. I love the book also, and while I am the kind of person who watches an adaptation on its own merits while sometimes suggesting what could have been done instead, I found this adaptation to be true in detail and spirit to the book. The adaptation looks beautiful, lush scenery, beautiful but never idealistic costumes and photography are definite things to like, as well as the charming lilting score. The script has its fair share of droll and heart-warming moments, and the story is still the one I know and love, timeless, thought-provoking and simply beautiful. The pacing I found perfect, I personally never found it flat, then again I was so entranced in everything else I would have overlooked it. The acting I can't fault, Megan Follows is a wonderful actress and her Anne is always likable. Jonathan Crombie also embodies the role of Gilbert, Collette Dewhurst's performance is a perfect blend of hard and soft and Richard Farnsworth is a charming Matthew. In conclusion, amazing, was a favourite, still is and always will be. 10/10 Bethany Cox

I was highly impressed with this production when I first saw it over ten years ago. The cinematography is very intimate, and does a fine job of showing some very picturesque coastal and rural scenery. The costuming and overall art direction is first class in both this production and it's followup "Anne of Avonlea."

The acting is very rich and natural from all the female leads, though somewhat dry from the younger males. There's a touch of melodrama in all their performances, but this aspect reflects accurately I think the behavioral norms for the period.

The stories are personal reflections of author Lucy Maud Montgomery, set around Prince Rupert Island, and placed in a 3rd person narrative for her series of books. The books are once again transcribed to screenplay format for this mini series, and though I've never read the books I must say I'm very impressed with the production.

The blend of colors, costumes, acting talent and overall direction really make this and its sequel very enjoyable to watch. Sadly the third installment doesn't quite live up to the standards set by the first two mini series, but is still watchable.

The SFX were also very convincing (what few there were). I won't spoil the film by pointing them out, but nevertheless they help set the general visual feel of the characters, and better establish their ages.

Myself, I'm a guns-n-spaceships movie kind of guy, but I do appreciate a gentle reflection on the more important things in life. In this case the story of the pains and fortunes of growing up. I highly reccomend this to anyone who needs a break from real life or wants a change in pace from the usual Hollywood offerings.

When I read these books as a child.. I would read an installment and then watch the installment on television. I have been in love with the stories ever since. The characters are truly the embodiment of L.M. Montgomery's written word. She would be proud.

I grew up wanting Gilbert Blythe to be in love with me and for Diana Barry to be my best friend. I think that this series was and is excellent.

If you like this one, make sure to watch the sequel. It is a little more romantic and a little less adventurous, but aren't we all when we grow up??