Sense and Sensibility (1981)

Probably my favorite adaptation of this novel, I so enjoy the full script and principle actors. An older adaptation by very well done.


Summary: Offering equal measures of humor and drama, this magnificent remastered charming version of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility. This delightful story tells of two sisters attempting to find happiness in the tightly structured society of 18th century England. Elinor, disciplined, restrained and very conscious of the manners of the day, represents sense. Outspoken, impetuous, emotional Marianne represents sensibility. Attracted to a man already promised to another, Elinor suffers silently to keep scandal away from her family. Marianne enjoys a flirtation with a handsome scoundrel that could lead to her downfall. Through their experiences with men and their relationship with each other, they learn that neither sense nor sensibility alone is enough, but that one must strive for a balance of the two.

Script: Alexander Baron & Denis Constanduros
Directed by: Rodney Bennett
Produced by: Barry Letts
Length: Approximately 174 minutes
Release Date: 1 February 1981
Make Up Designers: Pauline Cox
Costume Designer: Dorothea Wallace
Original Music: Dudley Simpson

Cast:
 
Irene Richard as Elinor Dashwood


Tracey Childs as Marianne Dashwood


Diana Fairfax as Mrs. Dashwood

 
Peter Woodward as John Willoughby


Robert Swann as Colonel Brandon


Bosco Hogan as Edward Ferrars


Peter Gale as John Dashwood


Amanda Boxer as Fanny Dashwood


Julia Chambers as Lucy Steele


Pippa Sparkes as Ann Steele

 
Annie Leon as Mrs. Jennings

 
Hetty Baynes as Charlotte Palmer


Mr. Palmer


Donald Douglas as Sir John Middleton


Marjorie Bland as Lady Middleton


John Owens as Tom & Gina Rowe as Susan


Philip Bowen as Robert Ferrars


Elizabeth Benson as Mrs. Wallis


William Lawford as Clay

 
Miss Sophia Grey

 
Dr. Harris


London Specialist 

Quotes:

• Willoughby: In defense of my protege, you may even be saucy. 
  Elinor Dashwood: My protege as you call him is a sensible man. 
  Marianne Dashwood: Elinor... 
  Elinor Dashwood: Yes, Marianne. Even in a man over thirty. 
• Marianne Dashwood: Elinor, where are your feelings? 
  Elinor Dashwood: I govern them. 
• Fanny Dashwood: Edward, don't stand there like a dummy. 
• Elinor Dashwood: Do you have an understanding with Fanny's brother, Robert? 
  Lucy Steele: That great coxcomb! No! Although I've never met him. No, with Edward. 
• Elinor Dashwood: If you would confide in me... 
  Marianne Dashwood: You never confide in me! 
• Elinor Dashwood: Losing your sleep and your health will not bring him. 
  Marianne Dashwood: Leave me alone. 

Links of Interest:

• IMDb's S&S Page
• Read Review at The Jane Austen Centre
• Buy DVD on Amazon.com

Visit Our Sense and Sensibility 1981 Photo Galley!


Watch Clips on YouTube:

• SENSE AND SENSIBILITY - BBC (1981) The Two Mrs Dashwoods
• SENSE AND SENSIBILITY - BBC (1981) Meeting the Middletons
• SENSE AND SENSIBILITY - BBC (1981) The Palmers

My Music Video:



Sense & Sensibility 1981 Themes




Marianne and Willoughby - S&S 1981