Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
James Fleet | ... | John Dashwood | |
Tom Wilkinson | ... | Mr. Dashwood | |
Harriet Walter | ... | Fanny Dashwood | |
Kate Winslet | ... | Marianne Dashwood | |
Emma Thompson | ... | Elinor Dashwood | |
Gemma Jones | ... | Mrs. Dashwood | |
Hugh Grant | ... | Edward Ferrars | |
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Emilie François | ... | Margaret Dashwood |
Elizabeth Spriggs | ... | Mrs. Jennings | |
Robert Hardy | ... | Sir John Middleton | |
Ian Brimble | ... | Thomas | |
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Isabelle Amyes | ... | Betsy |
Alan Rickman | ... | Colonel Brandon | |
Greg Wise | ... | John Willoughby | |
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Alexander John | ... | Curate |
When Mr. Dashwood (Tom Wilkinson) dies, he must leave the bulk of his estate to the son by his first marriage, which leaves his second wife and their three daughters Elinor (Dame Emma Thompson), Marianne (Kate Winslet), and Margaret (Emilie François), in straitened circumstances. They are taken in by a kindly cousin, but their lack of fortune affects the marriageability of practical Elinor and romantic Marianne. When Elinor forms an attachment for the wealthy Edward Ferrars (Hugh Grant), his family disapproves and separates them. And though Mrs. Jennings (Elizabeth Spriggs) tries to match the worthy (and rich) Colonel Brandon (Alan Rickman) to her, Marianne finds the dashing and fiery John Willoughby (Greg Wise) more to her taste. Both relationships are sorely tried. Written by Kathy Li
After seeing Pride and Prejudice with Colin Firth I wouldn't expect myself to like another JA adaptation so much, but I confess I did. P&P stays my favourite but S&S is very close.
I can't agree with some of the comments that Hugh Grant wasn't proper for Edward Ferrars. Yes, maybe his age didn't match Emma Thompson's exactly but I think he acted wonderfully. His speech especially and stiff walk. I loved the scenes at the beginning where he made friends with Margaret Dashwood and played with her. It was so sweet.
My favourite, however, was definitely Colonel Brandon! I think Alan Rickman was just perfect for that role. I've seen him only as professor Snape in the first Harry Potter film, so I can't compare very much but I would say he is a great actor. I love his voice (especially when he says "What can I do? Give me some occupation, Miss Dashwood, or I shall run mad.), love his intonation and how he cares for Marianne so tenderly and patiently even though she turns her back on him. You can see the suffering in his eyes!
I first read the book and didn't like it much but after seeing the film I'll reread it. I highly recommend JAusten's books to anyone who hasn't read them yet and likes JA's adaptations.