When thinking of iconic English novelist Jane Austen’s greatest works, titles like Sense and Sensibility, Emma and Pride and Prejudice instantly come to mind–which have all been given the star-studded Hollywood treatment.
But, when it comes to adaptation’s of her captivating works, Austen’s final, complete novel, Persuasion, is often overlooked. That is, until now. The 1817 novel published six months after her death, is headed to the big screen with some star-powered names already assigned to the upcoming project.
It won’t be the first time the novel has been reimagined. It was made into a TV mini-series in 1971, and in 2007, it was made into a film starring Sally Hawkins and Rupert Penry-Jones as its titular characters.
Below, everything we know about Persuasian’s movie adaptation.
What Is The Book About?
Persuasion was the last novel Austen fully completed, and it centres on two characters: Anne Elliot, a 27-year-old, unmarried English woman and Captain Frederick Wentworth, Anne’s former fiancé. The story begins with the pair’s reconnection after seven years apart when the Elliots lease their home to the Captain’s sister and her husband.
It is often regarded as Austen’s most mature work, exploring themes of growth, reconciliation and second chances.
Who Has Been Cast In The Adaptation?
Australian actress Sarah Snook will play the role of Anne Elliot. The Emmy-nominated actress is best known for portraying Siobhan “Shiv” Roy in HBO’s hit show, Succession. Most recently, Snook starred alongside Vanessa Kirby and Shia LaBeouf in the movie, Pieces of a Woman, which was just acquired by Netflix and premiered at the Venice Film Festival.
English film and TV director, Mahalia Belo, is set to direct the picture. She won a Breakthrough BAFTA in 2017 for her TV movie Ellen, and directed the 2018 BBC drama, The Long Song. British playwright Jessica Swale will be adapting the book into the faeture.
When Will The Film Be Released?
The movie is still in early production phases and has not begun filming yet. No official release date has been announced, as well as no further details on the cast (including who will take on the role of Captain Frederick Wentworth). Stay tuned!
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