Anne of Green Gables: The Continuing Story (2000)
Anne of Green Gables: The Continuing Story (2000) is the third installment in the beloved Anne of Green Gables series, based on the novels by Lucy Maud Montgomery. Directed by Stefan Scaini, this television movie continues the story of Anne Shirley, the imaginative and spirited redhead who captured the hearts of readers and viewers in previous adaptations. This film delves into Anne’s life as an adult, exploring themes of love, loss, and personal growth, while maintaining the charm and beauty that made the original stories so enduring.
Set in the early 20th century, The Continuing Story follows Anne (played by Megan Follows) as she embarks on a new chapter in her life. Now a young woman, Anne is happily married to her longtime love, Gilbert Blythe (played by Jonathan Crombie), and they have settled into a life together in the idyllic town of Avonlea. However, the peace and contentment of their early years are soon disrupted when Gilbert is offered an opportunity to work in a hospital in a distant city. Anne, torn between her desire to support Gilbert and her own ambitions, must navigate the challenges of adulthood, career aspirations, and the complexities of their relationship.
One of the key themes of The Continuing Story is Anne’s internal journey as she tries to reconcile her dreams and responsibilities. Throughout the film, we see her struggle with the sacrifices that come with growing up. While Anne’s playful, optimistic nature remains, the story takes a more mature and reflective tone as she faces the reality of adult life. The film also explores the evolving dynamics of Anne and Gilbert’s marriage. Their relationship, built on years of friendship and mutual respect, is tested by time and circumstances, particularly as Anne feels torn between her own ambitions and the desire to be there for Gilbert.