Anne With An E: A 2017 Retrospective

Hey everyone! Let's dive into the heartwarming world of Anne with an E, specifically the 2017 season. This adaptation of Lucy Maud Montgomery's beloved novel, Anne of Green Gables, took the story to a whole new level, didn't it? We're going to break down the key elements that made the show such a hit, exploring its themes, characters, and the impact it had on audiences. So, buckle up, because we're about to revisit the magic of Avonlea and beyond. The series, developed for Netflix, captivated viewers with its stunning visuals, strong storytelling, and the portrayal of complex characters. The 2017 season laid the groundwork for the show's success, introducing us to Anne Shirley-Cuthbert and the quaint, yet vibrant, community of Avonlea. From the very beginning, the show stood out due to its departure from previous adaptations, presenting a grittier and more realistic portrayal of the late 19th century. The series tackled social issues that were often glossed over, making it relevant to modern audiences. The cinematography was breathtaking, with the Prince Edward Island landscapes serving as a backdrop to the characters' stories. The vivid colors and attention to detail in the costumes and set design transported viewers to another era, making the viewing experience immersive. The casting was spot-on, with Amybeth McNulty's portrayal of Anne being particularly praised for capturing the character's spirit, imagination, and vulnerability. The chemistry among the cast members was palpable, making the relationships feel genuine. The show also deserves praise for the music selection which helped to underscore the emotional moments. The score perfectly complemented the scenes and evoked feelings that resonated with the audience. All these elements combined to create a memorable viewing experience. The show became an instant success and was quickly lauded by critics and audiences alike. The themes explored in the first season, such as identity, belonging, and prejudice, made the series resonate with viewers. The show's portrayal of its characters, and the setting in the community, further enhanced its charm.

Anne's Arrival at Green Gables

Okay, guys, let's talk about Anne's arrival! Remember how she was initially sent away? Then, after the blunder, she finally ended up with Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert at Green Gables. This moment was pivotal, not just for Anne, but for the show itself. It set the stage for the series' exploration of acceptance, love, and the power of family. Anne's initial struggles to fit in, her vivid imagination, and her tendency to speak her mind were all beautifully portrayed. We saw her confront her past, which included a difficult upbringing in orphanages and foster homes. The audience was instantly drawn to Anne's resilience and her determination to find a place where she belonged. The show didn't shy away from depicting the harsh realities of orphan life in the late 19th century, adding depth and context to Anne's character. The relationship between Anne and Matthew was heartwarming, with Matthew's quiet support and acceptance providing a safe space for Anne to flourish. Marilla, initially stern and pragmatic, also began to soften as she witnessed Anne's growth and the positive influence she had on the household. The initial episodes of the series were full of emotional moments as Anne adapted to life at Green Gables. Scenes of Anne exploring the natural world, reading, and engaging in imaginative play, highlighted her creativity and spirit. These scenes also served to showcase the show's stunning visuals. This was also when her friendship with Diana Barry started. The two girls developed a very close friendship. The writers expertly captured the essence of the novel, while also adding their unique touches.

Exploring Themes and Social Commentary

Anne with an E wasn't just a pretty show; it also tackled some pretty heavy themes. The 2017 season really dove into issues of social injustice, gender roles, and the struggles of marginalized communities. It's really impressive how the show didn't shy away from these tough topics, using Anne's experiences and the experiences of other characters to explore these issues. The show explored themes like orphanhood, bullying, and prejudice. The writers did a great job of not just presenting these issues, but also exploring their consequences. The series also addressed gender inequality, and the restrictions placed on women in the late 19th century. Through characters like Marilla and Anne, the show highlighted the importance of women's independence, education, and their ability to challenge societal norms. The show did not avoid the social problems of the time, such as racism and homophobia. While the original novel touched on these topics only subtly, the series expanded the discussion, giving voices to those who were often ignored or silenced. The show used its platform to create dialogue and encourage viewers to reflect on these issues. The inclusion of diverse characters added depth to the story and provided different perspectives. The creative team made a conscious effort to ensure that these issues were handled in a thoughtful and respectful way, sparking important conversations about social justice. The show aimed to make a difference and leave a mark. The show's commitment to exploring these themes made it more than just a period drama; it became a commentary on contemporary issues, resonating with a wider audience.

The Cast and Their Performances

Let's give some props to the amazing cast! Amybeth McNulty as Anne was a revelation, capturing Anne's essence perfectly. Lucas Jade Zumann brought a beautiful vulnerability to Gilbert Blythe, and the supporting cast members, including Geraldine James as Marilla and R.H. Thomson as Matthew, were also fantastic. Each actor brought their characters to life with depth and nuance. Their performances were pivotal to the success of the first season. Amybeth McNulty perfectly embodied Anne's spirit, her imagination, and her vulnerability. McNulty's portrayal brought to life the character that the audience was instantly able to connect to. The way McNulty delivered Anne's lines, with the right intonation and facial expressions, made her performance authentic and memorable. Lucas Jade Zumann brought a depth of sensitivity to the character of Gilbert. The chemistry between McNulty and Zumann was evident, adding to the romantic tension. Geraldine James gave a complex portrayal of Marilla, showing her development from a stern woman to a loving caregiver. R.H. Thomson brought warmth and kindness to the role of Matthew. These two played the perfect role. The supporting cast, including Dalila Bela, Corinne Koslo, and others, also deserve credit for their performances. The chemistry among the cast was palpable, making the relationships feel genuine and adding to the show's overall appeal. The actors did justice to the characters. The creative team and the actors deserve praise for the attention to detail in their performances and in making the characters relatable to the audience.

The Impact of the 2017 Season

The 2017 season of Anne with an E left a lasting impression, didn't it? It introduced the show to the world, set the tone for the series, and created a dedicated fanbase. The show's success proved that there was an audience for stories that were both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. The show's impact went beyond entertainment; it sparked conversations about important social issues and highlighted the importance of representation and inclusion. The show’s popularity on Netflix gave it a global audience, allowing viewers from all over the world to connect with the story and its characters. The series received critical acclaim and a massive fan base. The show's ability to tackle difficult topics and the exploration of diverse characters and narratives expanded the appeal to a wide array of viewers. It inspired fans to read the original novel and explore the world of Avonlea, thereby introducing the source material to a new generation. The series also encouraged fans to share their thoughts through social media. The show's success demonstrated the importance of adapting classic stories in ways that are both respectful to the source material and relevant to contemporary audiences. The show's themes of acceptance, identity, and the power of imagination continue to resonate with viewers today. The show had a positive impact on viewers. The show's first season laid the foundation for its subsequent seasons. The show's success showed the power of inclusive storytelling and the importance of representation.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the 2017 season of Anne with an E was a triumph! It was a beautiful adaptation that was not afraid to explore complex themes and deliver powerful performances. The show continues to be beloved by fans around the world, proving that good storytelling can transcend time and cultural barriers. If you haven't watched it, go do it! And if you have, maybe it's time for a rewatch. Thanks for joining me on this journey back to Avonlea. I would love to hear your thoughts and memories of the 2017 season in the comments below! What were your favorite moments or characters? Let's keep the conversation going.