Fans of period dramas will be delighted to discover there is additional content to enjoy from cherished author Jane Austen, beyond the familiar territory of Pride and Prejudice, and it is currently available to stream at no cost. Enthusiasts of Downton Abbey, Bridgerton, and the latest television sensation The Other Bennet Sister will be thrilled to learn that another of Austen's works has been brought to the screen once more.
Spanning three captivating seasons, Sanditon draws upon the incomplete manuscript Jane Austen left unfinished following her untimely death. The novel remained incomplete, meaning the original fragmentary text was predominantly utilised for the opening episode alone, staying true to Austen's distinctive style. Beyond that, the writers allowed the narrative to develop naturally, building upon the established characters and storylines.
Rose Williams plays the leading role of Charlotte Heywood. Much like many of the most beloved period dramas, this series unfolds against the elegant backdrop of the Regency era, demanding sophistication and opulence. The spectacle and grandeur, though conceived centuries ago, was reimagined by creator Andrew Davies to bring it vividly 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."
Meanwhile, 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."
Sanditon chronicles the journey of young woman Charlotte Heywood as she tries to navigate life in the emerging seaside resort of Sanditon. Eager to discover all the town has to offer, she finds herself repeatedly thwarted by the resort's conniving residents. The series made its debut on ITV in 2019, with eight episodes initially broadcast, before being renewed for two additional seasons.
Throughout these seasons, the ensemble evolves with certain characters remaining at the heart of the narrative, including Rose Williams as Charlotte, Kate Ashfield as Mary Parker, and Crystal Clarke as Georgiana Lambe. Audiences have been quick to commend the on-screen chemistry between certain performers, particularly that of Rose Williams as Charlotte and Ben Lloyd-Hughes in the second season as Alexander Colbourne.
One review says: "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."
As the series progressed, its popularity soared, with the final season of the period drama achieving the highest rating on Rotten Tomatoes — an impressive 100%. Following the release of its concluding 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.
