The new adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel, Sense and Sensibility, is set to arrive in theaters in the United States on September 11, 2026, followed by a UK release on September 25, 2026. Directed by George Oakley and produced by Working Title, this revival promises to bring a fresh perspective to the beloved tale.
The film features an impressive cast, including Daisy Edgar-Jones, Esmé Creed-Miles, and Caitríona Balfe. Other notable actors include Frank Dillane, Herbert Nordrum, Bodhi Rae Breathnach, George MacKay, and Fiona Shaw. Based on a script adaptation by Diana Reid, this version of Sense and Sensibility will explore the lives of the Dashwood sisters as they navigate love and societal expectations in Georgian England.
Upon the passing of wealthy Mr. Dashwood, his second wife and three daughters find themselves in a precarious financial situation. The family is forced to move to a modest cottage, where the two older sisters compete for the affections of various suitors, each seeking genuine love and stability.
The production team behind this adaptation is notable as well. Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner from Working Title are joined by India Flint of November Pictures and Jo Wallett of Kiddo Films. Notably, Working Title previously collaborated with Focus Features on the successful 2005 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, which garnered four Oscar nominations, and the 2020 version of Emma.
The original Sense and Sensibility released in 1995, directed by Ang Lee and featuring a screenplay by Emma Thompson, received critical acclaim, including seven Oscar nominations and a global box office gross exceeding $134 million. Thompson also starred in the film as Elinor Dashwood, alongside Kate Winslet, who portrayed Marianne.
Focus Features is set to handle global rights for the upcoming film, with UPI managing international distribution. Their upcoming slate for Fall 2026 also includes other prominent projects, such as Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet, starring Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley, and Song Sung Blue, featuring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. Additionally, Yorgos Lanthimos’s recently released Bugonia stars Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons.
The anticipation surrounding this new adaptation of Sense and Sensibility showcases the enduring appeal of Austen’s work and the potential for fresh interpretations that resonate with modern audiences.
