Emily (2022), directed by Frances O’Connor

There is a school of thought among the literati that elevates the novel Wuthering Heights as the greatest ever written. This premise seems to have informed Frances O’Connor’s writing and directing of this film about the middle Bronte sister. It is one thing to invent a passionate and doomed affair with a curate to explain the depth and breadth of imagination that came up with such an extraordinary story. It is quite another to ignore or distort known facts to serve the film’s narrative arc. Prolific novelist Charlotte apparently gave up writing during her teaching career and was only inspired by Emily’s success to take it up again after her sister’s death. Anne’s writing is never alluded to, despite her authorship of two exceptional novels. Small things are also annoying, such as Emily’s name appearing on her book, when it is well known that all three sisters used male pen names in order to get published. What does ring true is the problematic character of brother Branwell, and the portrayal of sibling rivalry between Emily and Charlotte is interesting and credible. Shaky hand-held camera work, some strange editing choices and occasionally overblown music detract from what is overall a quite beautiful, if uneven, film. It is held together by Emma Mackey’s mesmerising lead performance and a strong supporting cast.