Gwyneth Paltrow stars as the 19th-century matchmaker Emma Woodhouse in this adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel. Although her heart is in the right place and she only wants the best for people, Emma's meddling sometimes can have unforeseen consequences, and when she turns her attentions to creating a love match between her young friend Harriet Smith (Toni Collette) and the local vicar, Mr Elton (Alan Cumming), events look certain to get out of hand. A cautionary note is, however, sounded by the admiring Mr Knightley (Jeremy Northam), towards whom Emma begins to feel attracted herself.