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Anne of Avonlea (1987)

General Introduction

Anne of Avonlea (1987), also known as Anne of Green Gables: The Sequel, is the follow-up to the acclaimed television film Anne of Green Gables (1985), based on the novels by Lucy Maud Montgomery, including Anne of Avonlea, Anne of the Island, and Anne of Windy Poplars. Directed by Kevin Sullivan and produced by Sullivan Entertainment, the film was broadcast on CBC and PBS. Featuring the return of the original cast, including Megan Follows as Anne Shirley, Colleen Dewhurst as Marilla Cuthbert, and Jonathan Crombie as Gilbert Blythe, the movie continues the story of Anne’s journey into adulthood in the village of Avonlea on Prince Edward Island, Canada.

The film is highly regarded for its fidelity to the spirit of the original novels, blending romance, humor, and deeply emotional moments. It is a classic work for fans of family-friendly films, romance, and coming-of-age stories.

Plot Summary

Anne of Avonlea picks up where Anne of Green Gables left off, with Anne Shirley, now 16 years old, entering a new phase of her life. Following the death of Matthew Cuthbert and Marilla’s declining health, Anne forgoes the Avery scholarship and her dream of attending Redmond College to stay in Avonlea, teach at the local school, and care for Marilla. The film follows Anne’s journey as a teacher, her new relationships, and the evolving bond—both friendship and romance—with Gilbert Blythe.

Anne takes a teaching position at Kingsport Ladies’ College, a girls’ school in a town dominated by the wealthy and domineering Pringle family. There, she faces hostility from the Pringles and the cold demeanor of another teacher, Katherine Brooke. During this time, Anne befriends Emmeline Harris, an orphaned girl living with her strict grandmother, Mrs. Harris, and longing for her father’s affection. With her enthusiasm and vivid imagination, Anne not only transforms Emmeline’s life but also softens the hearts of the Harris family and Katherine Brooke.

Parallel to this, Anne’s relationship with Gilbert deepens from friendship to romance. After initially rejecting Gilbert’s marriage proposal, Anne begins to reflect on her feelings, especially after their chance encounters and mutual growth. The film culminates in a romantic resolution, as Anne realizes her heart truly belongs to Gilbert, marking a significant milestone in her journey to maturity.

Artistic Style

Direction and Screenplay

Kevin Sullivan continues to deliver a gentle, emotionally rich storytelling style that remains true to the atmosphere of Montgomery’s novels. The screenplay weaves elements from three books, creating a cohesive narrative while preserving Anne’s optimistic and romantic spirit. Although some changes were made from the source material (such as combining events and characters), the film is widely regarded as a successful adaptation, particularly in depicting Anne’s evolution from a dreamy girl to a mature young woman.

Sound Design

The film’s soundtrack, composed by Hagood Hardy, is a standout feature. Its gentle, pastoral melodies, combined with the scenic beauty of Prince Edward Island, create a warm and enchanting atmosphere. The sound design is skillfully used to highlight humorous, heartfelt, and romantic moments, particularly in scenes between Anne and Gilbert.

Cinematography

Filmed in the picturesque landscapes of Prince Edward Island and Ontario, Canada, the movie showcases lush fields, quaint countryside, and 19th-century-style homes. The cinematography employs warm tones, natural lighting, and wide shots to emphasize the poetic beauty of Avonlea. The costumes are meticulously designed, reflecting the era and Anne’s transformation from a rural girl to an elegant teacher.

Acting

Megan Follows shines once again as Anne Shirley, brilliantly capturing her character’s transition from a spirited girl to a strong, intelligent young woman while retaining her romantic and imaginative nature. Jonathan Crombie, as Gilbert Blythe, delivers a captivating performance, portraying a charming yet sincere Gilbert that makes their romance easy to root for.

Colleen Dewhurst, as Marilla, provides a perfect balance of sternness and warmth, particularly in her emotional scenes with Anne. Supporting actors, such as Marilyn Lightstone (Katherine Brooke) and Schuyler Grant (Diana Barry), add depth to the story with their natural and heartfelt performances.

Themes and Message

Anne of Avonlea is a story about growth, love, and the power of optimism. The film explores themes of patience, forgiveness, and the ability to transform lives through kindness and sincerity. Anne, with her indomitable spirit and imagination, serves as a symbol of overcoming challenges and finding meaning in life.

The relationship between Anne and Gilbert is a central focus, illustrating the evolution from childhood friendship to mature love. The film also emphasizes the value of family, community, and human connection, particularly through Anne’s ability to influence characters like Emmeline and Katherine.

Overall Evaluation

Anne of Avonlea is a worthy successor to Anne of Green Gables, delivering a perfect blend of romance, humor, and profound emotion. The film not only satisfies fans of the novels but also captivates new audiences with its engaging story, exceptional acting, and stunning visuals. While some fans of the books may be disappointed by deviations from the source material, the film remains beloved for capturing the heart and spirit of the original story.

Strengths:

• Outstanding performances from Megan Follows, Jonathan Crombie, and the supporting cast.
• Beautiful visuals and a captivating soundtrack that create a poetic and emotional atmosphere.
• An engaging story that balances humor, romance, and moments of growth.
• Faithful to the spirit of Montgomery’s novels, despite some changes.

Weaknesses:

• Some deviations from the novels may disappoint fans of the original books.
• The pacing can feel slow at times, particularly in segments focusing on supporting characters.

Conclusion

Anne of Avonlea (1987) is a classic television film that continues the inspiring story of Anne Shirley with romance, humor, and profound life lessons. It is a must-watch for fans of Anne of Green Gables or anyone looking to explore a story of growth and love set in the idyllic 19th-century Canadian countryside. The film is a testament to the timeless appeal of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s characters and stories.

Rating: 8.5/10
Recommendation: Watch Anne of Avonlea alongside Anne of Green Gables for a complete experience. The film is suitable for all ages, especially those who enjoy family-friendly, romantic, and heartfelt coming-of-age stories.