Fans of period dramas are in for a treat as there is additional content from beloved author Jane Austen, beyond the well-known Pride and Prejudice, now available to stream for free. Admirers of Downton Abbey, Bridgerton, and the latest television hit The Other Bennet Sister will be delighted to discover that another of Austen's novels has been adapted for the screen once again.
Sanditon: A Fresh Take on an Unfinished Classic
Running across three compelling seasons, Sanditon is based on the unfinished manuscript Jane Austen left incomplete after her premature death. The novel remained unfinished, meaning the original fragmentary text was chiefly used for the opening episode alone, remaining faithful to Austen's characteristic style. After that, the writers allowed the narrative to evolve organically, developing the established characters and plotlines.
Regency Splendor and Intrigue
Similar to many adored period dramas, this series is set against the refined backdrop of the Regency era, requiring elegance and lavishness. The spectacle and splendour, though envisioned centuries ago, were reimagined by creator Andrew Davies to bring them strikingly to life on screen.
One fan said on Rotten Tomatoes: "Absolutely loved it. So intelligent, sensitive, and well acted. It is sad that there is not TV like this in America. The Brits make series for intelligent people who are not superhero addicted. All three series were binge-worthy and elevating. Rose Williams was perfect in her role."
Another added: "I loved Sanditon 2 and 3! The casting was outstanding, and the story, though not written by Jane Austen, was expertly written to continue her unfinished last novel in the Austen-like style."
Plot and Characters
Sanditon follows the story of young woman Charlotte Heywood as she attempts to find her footing in the burgeoning seaside resort of Sanditon. Keen to explore everything the town has to offer, she finds herself repeatedly frustrated by the resort's scheming inhabitants. The series first aired on ITV in 2019, with eight episodes initially broadcast, before being commissioned for two further seasons.
Across these seasons, the cast develops with certain characters remaining central to the storyline, including Rose Williams as Charlotte, Kate Ashfield as Mary Parker, and Crystal Clarke as Georgiana Lambe. Viewers have been swift to praise the on-screen chemistry between particular cast members, notably that of Rose Williams as Charlotte and Ben Lloyd-Hughes in the second season as Alexander Colbourne.
One review states: "Masterful storytelling. Exquisite performances by Rose Williams and Ben Lloyd-Hughes establish Charlotte Heywood and Alexander Colbourne as an iconic Austen couple. Bring them back to tell more stories of their life in Sanditon."
Another added: "Never in my life have I been so intensely swept away by a series. Sanditon is literally the best thing I've ever watched, and I'm not exaggerating. The acting! The ACTING! Superb. The storyline is so captivating."
Critical Acclaim and Popularity
As the show progressed through its run, its popularity skyrocketed, with the concluding season of the period drama achieving the highest possible rating on Rotten Tomatoes — an impressive 100%. Following the release of its final season, a critic for The Times said: "After a tame series one and two, Sanditon may finally have found its soul. And, a flavour that at least faintly tastes of Jane Austen."
Sanditon is now available to stream, with all episodes free to watch on ITVX.
