Watch Sense and Sensibility

Sense and Sensibility is a 2008 British television drama series adapted by Andrew Davies from the Jane Austen novel of the same name. It aired on BBC One in three parts, on March 30th, April 6th, and April 13th of 2008. The miniseries stars Hattie Morahan as Elinor Dashwood, Charity Wakefield as Marianne Dashwood, and Dan Stevens as Edward Ferrars.

The series follows the lives of the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, after their father's death leaves them and their mother in financial strain. They are forced to leave their comfortable home and move to a modest cottage in Devonshire. Elinor, the older sister, is practical and reserved, while Marianne is passionate and emotional. The two sisters navigate their new social and romantic positions.

Elinor is secretly in love with Edward Ferrars, the brother of her sister-in-law. However, she cannot reveal her true feelings because of their financial situation and Edward's engagement to a wealthy but manipulative woman named Lucy Steele. Meanwhile, Marianne falls in love with John Willoughby, a charming but reckless gentleman, who appears to return her affections. However, he suddenly leaves without explanation, leaving Marianne heartbroken and ill.

The series also follows the romantic pursuits of other characters, including Colonel Brandon, a wealthy and reserved bachelor who develops feelings for Marianne, Lucy Steele, who is in love with Edward Ferrars and will stop at nothing to secure his affections, and Robert Ferrars, Edward's younger brother.

The production features a star-studded cast, consisting of well-regarded British actors, including David Morrissey as Colonel Brandon, Dominic Cooper as John Willoughby, Janet McTeer as Mrs. Dashwood, Lucy Boynton as Margaret Dashwood, Mark Gatiss as John Dashwood, Daisy Haggard as Anne Steele, Anna Madeley as Lucy Steele, Linda Bassett as Mrs. Jennings, Mark Williams as Sir John Middleton, and Rosanna Lavelle as Fanny Dashwood.

The series is notable for its stunning scenery and period-accurate costumes, which transport viewers to the early 19th century. The beautiful setting of the Devon countryside, where much of the story takes place, is captured in all its natural beauty. The use of a beautiful score helps to heighten the atmosphere of the drama and to evoke the emotions of the characters.

Sense and Sensibility is a captivating drama that presents the themes of love, loss, and societal expectations. The story is brought to life through the talented performances of the cast, who brilliantly convey the nuances of their characters. The series remains a fan favorite and continues to be an excellent adaptation of Jane Austen's beloved novel.