Unsurprisingly, this film is based on Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility. A book I haven't actually read since my university days, but remember enjoying...
It features not just a stellar cast - including Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet and Alan Rickman - but a stellar director, too, in Ang Lee.
Emma Thompson plays Elinor - the sensible one - while Winslet is her more romantically-inclined sister, Marianne. The interplay between two sisters with very different temperaments is beautifully done, and the script fairly sparkles.
Speaking of the script, Emma Thompson proves yet again that some people are born with talent, and some are born with more talent than seems strictly fair. Not only does Thompson turn in a fabulous performance as Elinor Dashwood, she also wrote the excellent screenplay - deservedly winning an Oscar for it.
Greg Wise is perfect as Marianne's dashing - but ultimately feckless - suitor, Willoughby, while Alan Rickman plays against type as quiet, kind, Colonel Brandon. Hugh Grant acquits himself very well as Elinor's love interest - shy Edward Ferrars.
As always with Austen, the film says a great deal more about society and human nature than simply the search for a suitable husband. Thanks to splendid cinematography, stunning scenery and costumes, it looks very pretty while doing so.
It's my favourite of the Austen adaptations and the perfect Sunday afternoon film.
Related posts: Austen Week | Flirting with Pride & Prejudice | Lost in Austen
