Anne Of Green: Gables - 1985 - 2 Parts ((top))
Adapting Lucy Maud Montgomery's 1908 novel was a massive risk. The book relies heavily on Anne Shirley's internal monologues, vivid imagination, and poetic descriptions of Prince Edward Island. Stripping those away could easily turn the story into a generic, overly sentimental children's tale.
Though filmed primarily in Ontario rather than Prince Edward Island due to budget constraints, Sullivan’s production design captured a flawless, romanticized Edwardian era. The soft, golden-hour cinematography by René Ohashi gave the entire two-part series the feel of a living painting. Accompanied by Hagood Hardy’s sweeping, whimsical musical score, the technical elements blended seamlessly to evoke a timeless sense of nostalgia and comfort. Why the 1985 Version Remains Supreme
Other notable actors in the cast include Jackie Burroughs as the interfering Mrs. Amelia Evans, Charmion King as Aunt Josephine Barry, and Rosemary Radcliffe as Mrs. Elizabeth Barry.
As Anne settles into her new life at Green Gables, she makes friends with Diana Barry (played by Dalila Bela), a kind and gentle neighbor, and Gilbert Blythe (played by Jonathan Gilbert), a charming and teasing boy who becomes a lifelong friend and potential love interest. Anne's adventures and misadventures at Avonlea School, her struggles with her temper, and her eagerness to please and fit in make her a relatable and endearing protagonist. Anne of Green Gables - 1985 - 2 Parts
The final moments of Part II provided the closure the story deserved. Gilbert Blythe, hearing of Anne’s sacrifice, withdrew his application for the local school so she could have the position. It was his olive branch.
The first part of the miniseries introduces us to the idyllic, quiet world of Avonlea, where elderly siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert (played by Colleen Dewhurst and Richard Farnsworth) decide to adopt a boy to help with their farm, Green Gables. Instead, due to a mix-up, they receive Anne Shirley, a spirited, imaginative, and talkative 11-year-old girl with a fiery temper and an even fierier red hair. Key Moments & Themes:
Costume designer Martha Mann meticulously tracked Anne’s transition through wardrobe. Part 1 features oversized, drab, practical orphan garments, which slowly transition into the iconic puffed-sleeve dress gifted by Matthew. Part 2 showcases structured, elegant Edwardian gowns that reflect Anne’s maturity. The Musical Score Adapting Lucy Maud Montgomery's 1908 novel was a
In the decades since 1985, Anne of Green Gables has been adapted multiple times, including the gritty, modernized Netflix series Anne with an E . While newer adaptations offer contemporary perspectives and darker realism, the 1985 two-part masterpiece remains the definitive version for purists.
The climax of Part 2 delivers one of the most romantic and satisfying resolutions in television history. Gilbert Blythe, learning of Anne’s predicament, selflessly gives up his teaching position at the Avonlea school so Anne can work close to home. This act of kindness finally breaks the ice between them. The miniseries concludes on a bridge, with Anne and Gilbert finally reconciling, hinting at the lifelong romance that millions of fans had been waiting to see. The Secrets Behind the Success
Few literary adaptations capture the hearts of multiple generations like Kevin Sullivan’s 1985 miniseries Anne of Green Gables . Originally broadcast as a two-part television event, this adaptation of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s 1908 novel did more than just translate words to the screen. It defined the visual and emotional landscape of Prince Edward Island for millions of viewers worldwide. Combining breathtaking cinematography, a timeless score, and a flawlessly cast ensemble, the two-part miniseries remains the definitive version of Anne Shirley's story. Part 1: The Arrival of a Kindred Spirit Though filmed primarily in Ontario rather than Prince
The success of the 1985 production is largely attributed to its impeccable cast. Megan Follows beat out thousands of actresses to land the role of Anne Shirley. Her performance is a masterclass in range, capturing Anne’s rapid shifts from "depths of despair" to "radiant joy."
A combination of a real farmhouse in Pickering, Ontario, and interior studio sets designed to match the architectural style of late 19th-century PEI.