Netflix has released a trailer for a new six-part period drama, My Brilliant Career, based on Miles Franklin's 1901 novel. Some fans of the 1979 film adaptation starring Judy Davis and Sam Neill have voiced concerns that the remake will ruin the original.
Cast and plot
The series stars Philippa Northeast as Sybylla, a young woman who defies her family's expectations to pursue a writing career. The cast also includes Anna Chancellor, Genevieve O'Reilly, and Christopher Chung as Harry.
Fan reactions
On YouTube, viewers expressed mixed feelings. One said: "Nice try Netflix, but the original movie version with a young Judy Davis portrayed this brilliant novel... with way more authentic adolescent sass and much less millennial pop star angst." Another wrote: "I’m scared this new one will butcher a beloved story, like ’Anne with an E’ did for me." A third commented: "Nothing beats Julie Davis and Sam Neill. I wish that remakes would stop being made unless you're going to adhere to the original story."
However, some defended the remake. One person noted: "The original will always have its place. This is just another take on it." Another said: "This series going adding more details that Miles Franklin wrote." A third wrote: "I look forward to this. I so enjoyed the '79 version with Judy Davis...this looks to be just as entertaining."
Sam Neill's legacy
Sam Neill, who played Harry in the 1979 film, died aged 78 from pneumonia on July 16. His career included roles in Jurassic Park, Peaky Blinders, and Event Horizon.
Release date
My Brilliant Career will be released globally on Netflix on August 13, 2026.
