Jane Austen fans, brace yourselves! The BBC just dropped a brand-new drama that’s stealing the spotlight. This release couldn’t be more perfectly timed as it coincides with the 250th birthday of the literary icon behind Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion.
Introducing Jane AusteRise of Genius, a series now streaming on BBC iPlayer. This captivating exploration delves deep into the life of one of England’s most beloved authors.
Across three engaging episodes, audiences will get an in-depth look at Austen’s revolutionary approach to novel writing, showcasing her unique path as a trailblazer in literature, according to Surrey Live.
Guiding viewers through her remarkable journey is the talented Juliet Stevenson, known for her iconic roles in Bend It Like Beckham and Emma (1996). She unveils the intriguing layers of Austen’s life, much of which is inspired by the surviving correspondence between Austen and her sister, Cassandra. A tragic twist lies in the fact that many letters were destroyed by Cassandra posthumously, revealing the lengths to which she went to protect her sister’s legacy.
This series skillfully weaves cinematic re-enactments with commentary from a rich tapestry of writers, historians, and actors. Featured contributors include best-selling author Helen Fielding, creator of Bridget Jones’s Diary, and acclaimed writers like Queenie‘s Candice Carty-Williams and Kate Atkinson.
Among the talented actors appearing in the series are Charity Wakefield from Sense and Sensibility, Greta Scacchi of Emma fame, and Greg Wise, who also starred in Emma.
The expertise doesn’t stop there. Historians and specialists like Dr. Paula Byrne and renowned director Ken Loach contribute valuable insights that enhance the viewing experience. With an impressive rating of 8.8/10 on IMDb, this series is a standout for anyone seeking a fresh perspective on Austen’s life and works.
But that’s not all! BBC iPlayer also offers an enchanting four-part adaptation of Gill Hornby’s novel Miss Austen. This fiction-based series dives into the mystery surrounding why Cassandra burned her sister’s letters, bringing intriguing emotional depth to their relationship.
Miss Austen explores forgotten romances that echo the themes found in Persuasion, leading to a heartwarming conclusion that feels right out of an Austen narrative.
Fans can also catch Persuasion (1995) featuring CiaraÃŒÂn Hinds and Amanda Root, along with the BBC’s 2008 adaptation of Sense and Sensibility.
Jane AusteRise of Genius is streaming on the BBC iPlayer now