Emma Woodhouse (Kate Beckinsale) is beautiful, rich, clever and rules over her father, Mr Woodhouse. She tries to influence the love-lives of their circle of friends in the small village of Highbury, with comic and disastrous results.

Emma has no shortage of would-be suitors herself. The amorous vicar, Mr Elton, competes for her love with the dashing Frank Churchill and the outspoken and down-to-earth Mr George Knightley all compete for her love.

Emma largely ignores their advances, preferring to concentrate on finding a match for her new friend Harriet Smith than face up to her own desires.