Available to be binge-watched on Netflix, the Anne with an E series is a masterful reenvisioning of the book Anne of Green Gables, published in 1908, written by Lucy Maud Montgomery.
The background of the series has been mainly filmed in multiple scenic backdrops in Canada. It is a story that follows the footsteps of an orphan to find her home, but more than that, it talks about love in its truest form and dreams and hope that guide her through the darkness to find light. Anchored by Amybeth McNulty’s fiercely authentic and emotionally raw performance, we follow a girl who does everything to find love everywhere she goes. In return, she longs for just a little portion of the same to know that she belongs and is capable of receiving love as well. Whoever she meets, she brings along a mist of positivity.
Moreover, another superior thing that makes this adaptation a worthy watch is definitely its gritty realism. The show focuses on framing the darker edges of Anne’s history by going deep into exploring the scars and trauma she carries from her abusive childhood years as an orphan. Anne weaves her imagination with stories and mends her world to survive and make things feel normal.
The supporting cast of the series breathes life into each of the episodes, arm-in-arm with Anne, be it Marilla, the stoically guarded character played by Geraldine James, or the affectionate father figure Matthew Cuthbert, played by R.H. Thomson. Together with Anne’s “bosom friend” Diana Barry, played by Dalila Bela, and Anne’s evolving connection of love interest with Gilbert Blythe, played by Lucas Jade Zumann. Each character adds to the distinct layers of Anne’s coming-of-age journey.
The ambitiously woven frames of the period setting highlight relevant social issues throughout the episodes. Continued focus is laid on tackling themes of feminism along with systemic racism, and even highlighting classism and LGBTQ+.
The Anne with an E series, which had the potential to bring more to the table for the audience, got cancelled after just three seasons, leaving a few characters a bit rushed with the story’s arc open-ended.
The series, overall, is an absolute tear-jerker for every individual who hopes that good things ultimately find a way towards good people. So, if you are craving a series to add a positive spark to your hopes, then Anne with an E gets a top spot in your watch list.