Sense and Sensibility, rated PG
***

This new adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel Sense and Sensibility was directed by Georgia Oakley. The screenplay is by Diana Reid, based on the 1811 novel.
vThe film focuses on the Dashwood family, mother Mrs. Dashwood is played by Caitriona Balfe (Outlander), Elinor, played by Daisy Edgar-Jones (Normal People), Marianne, played by Esmé Creed-Miles (Hanna), and the youngest, Margaret, played by Bodhi Rae Breathnach.
As the film begins, they receive the devastating news of the death of Mr. Dashwood. As a result, the family estate is left entirely to the brother John Dashwood, played by Tom Brooke (Slow Horses), and his wife Fanny, played by Stacy Martin. Mrs. Dashwood and his daughters are left penniless, and have to leave their home. They will move to a much smaller home in the country. The girls only hope is to marry well.

The film primarily follows the romantic lives of Elinor and Edward Ferrars, who is Fanny’s brother and  played by George MacKay, Marianne and Willoughby, played by Frank Dillane, and the quiet, ever present and loyal Colonel Brandon, played by Herbert Nordrum. The film takes us through stories of early love and betrayal and heartbreak.
There are no content issues (sexuality, language or violence) in this film. Themes include loss, love, disappointment, marriage, family, betrayal and sisterhood.
The film includes beautiful cinematography from Arnaud Potier. There are scenes of nature, a good use of period costumes and jovial dances. The film includes a good musical score by Roger Goula.
While at times, the film moved slowly, overall, we enjoyed this new interpretation of Austen’s classic novel.