Picturehouse Blog

Every generation needs a new love story to fall for. Luckily for us, this sparkling, beautiful take on Jane Austen's inimitable Sense and Sensibility is right around the corner. The author's first published novel is perhaps the most beloved work among her fandom and, some 31 years after the Emma Thompson-Kate Winslet adaptation, is ripe for reinterpretation. The combination of exciting new British director Georgia Oakley teaming up with Working Title, the production company behind Emma and Pride & Prejudice, rejuvenates the story of the Dashwood sisters as they make their way in the world. The result delivers a fresh spin on a timeless classic. 

Following her stunning debut, Blue Jean, Oakley is turning her sensitive eye to Austen's beguiling tale of sisters with opposing worldviews. The story focuses on the cautious, conscientious Elinor and her fiery younger sister Marianne, as they navigate the unpredictability of falling in love. Deftly etching a compelling clash of opposites — head and heart — it's a perfectly poised, relatable portrait of the unbreakable bond between sisters. 

Daisy Edgar-Jones, who's consistently risen to any challenge – from the blockbuster thrill of Twisters to the intimate emotion of Normal People – leads the cast as Elinor. She plays opposite breakout star Esmé Creed-Miles playing Marianne. Fun fact – the two actors first met on Creed- Miles' debut in 2018's Pond Life. 

The unwavering two sisters find love and opportunity thanks to a charming crop of some of our finest male actors working today. 1917's George MacKay, Urchin's Frank Dillane and The Worst Person in the World's Herbert Nordrum excel as the rotation of suitors that test the Dashwood sisters' devotion and ambition. (And don't forget Caitriona Balfe, Fiona Shaw and Stacy Martin to round out the ensemble cast). 

Sense and Sensibility is a visual treat, showcasing both the stunning period costumes, production design and the gorgeous landscapes of the English countryside. This feel for nature mirrors the young women's undeniable wildness and earthy DNA (blackberry-stained lips, knotty hair and rosy cheeks) at the heart of Jane Austen's novel. 

It's a tender, organic adaptation akin to the way Greta Gerwig re-introduced Little Women to the world, at once faithful and vibrant. Tapping into Austen's everlasting resonance, Oakley's Sense and Sensibility finds humour and lightness in perhaps the greatest story of sisterhood and romance ever told.

Ella Kemp

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Sense and Sensibility is in cinemas from 25 September — Book Now!