Jane Austen fans and devotees are rejoicing in the prospect of a new film adaptation of Sense and Sensibility. Focus Features recently announced its cast list for the film adaptation, including names such as Daisy Edgar-Jones, who will take on the role of Elinor Dashwood. To the delight of fans, George MacKay will play Edward Ferrars, the quiet hero who wins Elinor’s steadfast heart. 

Sense and Sensibility was Jane Austen’s first published novel, in 1811. Full of the desired Janeite elements, the story itself teaches about duty, love, honor, and purpose in life while telling the compelling tale.

Humble Beginnings

Born on December 16, 1775, Jane Austen entered a world in a state of flux. With the American colonies fighting for independence from Great Britain, Jane grew up between the twin pillars of duty and freedom. You can see this theme throughout her novels, especially in Sense and Sensibility.

Jane firmly believed in Christianity and the morals which held English society together. However, she saw cracks in the foundation and sought to bring them to the forefront.

In Sense and Sensibility, Elinor and Marianne Dashwood try to understand themselves and the men who vie for their favor. The dashing John Willoughby, whose looks and fine manners disguise his inner decay, sweeps  Marianne off her feet. Elinor quietly longs for Edward when she learns of his secret engagement to Lucy Steele – she suffers as much as Marianne, but restrains herself for the good of others.

Sense and Sensibility Revisited

Each film adaptation approaches the sisters from a unique angle, some more loyal to the book than others. Both the 2008 and 1995 versions basically follow the plot of Sense and Sensibility with exceptions to secondary characters. Some scenes are fused due to the limitations of length. Will this new film do justice to the book?

The cast seems well-selected with several actors who are comfortable with period dramas, i.e., Outlander and 1917. George MacKay, who had a role in the film 1917, will take on a frock coat, cravat, and riding boots. Critics await to review the costume and location choices made by the director and producer.

According to the studio, the adaptation will portray a “fresh take” on Sense and Sensibility. In the wake of 2020’s Emma and Netflix’s Persuasion, Austen fans eagerly await this latest offering. Only time will tell if it is worthy of the great and approachable novel.

Sense and Sensibility is far more than one more chick-flick movie night – it is part of the fabric of the human experience.

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