Film review: Sense and Sensibility

I was really looking forward to this version of Sense and Sensibility which is a little bit surprising as normally I’d not be thrilled to see another remake on the horizon - particularly one that seems to be keeping things pretty traditional and by the books.

But with Georgia Oakley at the helm, someone I tracked with great interest after her fantastic feature debut Blue Jean, I had faith she’d be able to impart her brilliance on another project once again.

Additionally, the trailer looked gorgeous and generally promising too with a strong cast of stars, many of whom are young, but already established British talents.

The beauty of the film is absolutely apparent.

The decision to shoot on film instantly ages things, drawing light further away from the darkest parts of every scene, providing a base for contrast where the glows of candle can impart a wonderful warmth and depth to the picture.

The sets and scenes are unsurprisingly another success as we roam around the vast, largely unaltered countryside of the late 18th century, and glide around grand ballrooms where hope and despair dance around our displaced girls in equal measure.

The story is a classic for a reason and it’s understandable why countless films, television programmes, and shows have been made from the source material.

It’s a look into the psyche of young women, particularly at a time when marrying for status and money was important due to the grossly unfair inheritance laws.

What transcends the era and setting though is the pain brought about by love and yearning, the realisations of being wanted or not, and the intense feelings of euphoria or sadness that can come with each.

Daisy Edgar-Jones and Esmé Creed-Miles do an incredibly clever thing in this regard.

Away from the period costumes and language are two girls that could live in any time, and their more modern dispositions at times do wonders for relatability, one that brings validity to the film’s existence.

Paired with a sweeping score to elevate each emotion and charm that’s in each moment, the film finds itself as a firmly justified, very good one indeed.

Rating: 7/10

Written by: Kaya Şentürk