🎥 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐆𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬 (𝟏𝟗𝟖𝟓)

Anne of Green Gables (1985) 

Anne of Green Gables (1985), directed by Kevin Sullivan, is a beloved adaptation of Lucy Maud Montgomery's classic novel. Set in the late 19th century, the film follows the life of Anne Shirley (Megan Follows), an imaginative, spirited, and slightly mischievous orphan. Anne's life takes a surprising turn when she is mistakenly sent to live with Marilla (Colleen Dewhurst) and Matthew Cuthbert (Richard Farnsworth), two middle-aged siblings who had intended to adopt a boy to help them with the work on their farm in the small town of Avonlea, Prince Edward Island. When Anne arrives, both Marilla and Matthew are initially taken aback by her exuberant personality and her tendency to get into trouble. Marilla is skeptical of Anne's wild imagination and unconventional ways, while Matthew is charmed by her youthful energy and sees the goodness in her heart. Despite the misunderstanding of her arrival, Anne's vibrant spirit soon wins over the Cuthberts, and she is allowed to stay, beginning her new life in Green Gables. Throughout the film, Anne's experiences in Avonlea shape her growth from a precocious, whimsical girl into a young woman who learns the value of family, friendship, and self-acceptance. Anne’s relationship with Marilla is central to the story, as they both learn from each other. Marilla, initially stern and practical, slowly softens as she comes to appreciate Anne's heart and sincerity, even though Anne's impulsive nature often causes trouble. Meanwhile, Anne also learns discipline and responsibility from Marilla, who teaches her the importance of being reliable and focused. As Anne grows older, her imagination and unique outlook on life continue to get her into occasional scrapes, but they also endear her to the community of Avonlea, especially when she befriends Diana Barry (Schuyler Grant), a kindred spirit with whom she shares a deep bond. Diana becomes Anne's closest confidante and the two share many adventures together, navigating the ups and downs of adolescence, mischief, and dreams of a brighter future.

At the heart of Anne of Green Gables is Anne's romanticized vision of the world, which often clashes with the practical realities of her life. A key aspect of Anne’s development in the film is her budding feelings for Gilbert Blythe (Jonathan Crombie), a classmate who initially teases her but later becomes her closest friend and potential love interest. Anne and Gilbert’s relationship is marked by both rivalry and a subtle attraction, as Anne, stubborn and proud, initially rejects Gilbert’s advances because of an incident in which he called her "Carrots." As time goes on, Anne’s feelings for Gilbert evolve, and she begins to see him in a new light, understanding that their relationship is one of mutual respect and admiration. Despite the obstacles they face, including misunderstandings and Anne's pride, their friendship ultimately grows, highlighting Anne's emotional maturation as she begins to reconcile her idealistic dreams with the realities of love, friendship, and personal growth. The film culminates with Anne’s acceptance into university, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her life as she steps out into the world with the lessons she has learned from her time at Green Gables, her experiences with the Cuthberts, and her newfound understanding of herself and others.

In conclusion, Anne of Green Gables (1985) is a heartwarming, timeless story of a young girl's journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and the importance of love and family. The film brings to life the charm and warmth of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s novel, capturing the essence of Anne’s character—her wit, imagination, resilience, and vulnerability. Megan Follows’ portrayal of Anne is both endearing and authentic, conveying the character’s emotional depth and her transformation over time. The film’s picturesque setting of Prince Edward Island, along with its beautiful cinematography, adds a layer of visual appeal that enhances the nostalgic and cozy atmosphere of the story. The themes of belonging, self-worth, and the power of positive relationships resonate strongly with audiences of all ages. Anne of Green Gables remains a beloved classic, reminding viewers of the power of kindness, the value of friendships, and the importance of embracing one's uniqueness, no matter how different or unconventional one may seem. The film continues to inspire generations of viewers, making it a cherished piece of cinematic history.