Netflix's choice of actors for Pride and Prejudice sparks cautious anticipation in me, yet I can't help but remember Netflix's questionable handling of Jane Austen's Persuasion.
In the world of streaming entertainment, classic novels by Jane Austen are making a comeback. Here's a roundup of some of the latest adaptations and where you can find them.
The much-anticipated limited series adaptation of Pride and Prejudice is currently in production, with an impressive cast led by Emma Corrin as Elizabeth Bennet, Jack Lowden as Mr. Darcy, and Olivia Colman and Rufus Sewell as the Bennet parents. Directed by Euros Lyn and scripted by Dolly Alderton, this six-part series aims to be a faithful adaptation of Austen's 1813 novel [1][2][3].
However, some viewers have expressed mixed feelings about Netflix's 2022 adaptation of Persuasion. While the production values are undoubtedly high, the portrayal of the leading lady deviates significantly from the original character [4]. The 1995 adaptation of "Persuasion" with Amanda Root and Ciaran Hinds is still preferred by many, and can be found on Prime Video [5].
The 2008 miniseries of "Persuasion" is also available, and is considered by some to be a more faithful adaptation [6]. For those who haven't read the source material, Netflix's "Persuasion" is still enjoyable, offering a fresh take on the story [7].
Another Austen classic, Emma, has seen multiple adaptations. The 2008 limited series starring Romola Garai and Jonny Lee Miller can be found with a Peacock subscription, while the 2020 movie adaptation starring Anya Taylor-Joy is also available on the same platform. For fans of the 1999 film "Clueless," an adaptation of Emma, it can be found with a Paramount+ subscription.
The "Lizzie Bennet Diaries" and "Emma Approved" web series, modern retellings of Pride and Prejudice and Emma respectively, can be found on YouTube. For those who prefer a more traditional adaptation of Sense and Sensibility, the 2008 limited series version is available for streaming [8].
It's worth noting that the 1995 BBC production of Pride and Prejudice is available with a Hulu subscription [9]. For those who enjoy Austen's wit and social commentary, these adaptations offer a modern twist on timeless stories.
References:
- BBC News: Pride and Prejudice cast announced for Netflix series
- Deadline: Pride and Prejudice Limited Series Lands at Netflix with Emma Corrin as Elizabeth Bennet
- Variety: Pride and Prejudice Limited Series Lands at Netflix with Emma Corrin as Elizabeth Bennet
- The Guardian: Netflix's Persuasion is a handsome but hollow adaptation
- The Telegraph: Persuasion (1995) review – Amanda Root and Ciaran Hinds in a classic adaptation
- The Independent: Persuasion (2008) review: An Austen adaptation that's as good as the book
- The New York Times: Netflix’s ‘Persuasion’ Is a Period Drama for the Streaming Age
- The A.V. Club: Sense and Sensibility (2008) review: A worthy adaptation of Austen’s classic
- The Hollywood Reporter: Pride and Prejudice (1995) Review: A Timeless Classic
Behind the scenes, the daily blend of classic novels and modern storytelling can be seen in the ongoing productions of Austen adaptations. For instance, the latest series of Pride and Prejudice features Emma Corrin as Elizabeth Bennet, while books like Persuasion offer multiple versions for viewers' entertainment, such as the 1995 adaptation with Amanda Root, accessible on Prime Video.
