Netflix has unveiled the first tantalising glimpse of its highly anticipated television adaptation of Jane Austen's timeless novel, Pride and Prejudice. The streaming giant released a teaser showcasing Emma Corrin in the lead role of Elizabeth Bennet, perched thoughtfully on a rooftop, gazing into the distance, setting the tone for what the platform is calling a 'yearn-aissance'.
A Stellar Cast for a Classic Tale
The six-part series, scheduled for release this autumn, features an impressive ensemble. Corrin, who uses they/them pronouns and is renowned for their portrayal of Princess Diana in The Crown, takes centre stage as Austen's beloved heroine. They are joined by Jack Lowden, who steps into the iconic role of Mr Darcy. The supporting cast includes acclaimed actors Olivia Colman, Rufus Sewell, Louis Partridge, and Fiona Shaw, promising a rich and nuanced interpretation of the classic story.
Teasing the Yearn-aissance
The brief teaser offers more than just Corrin's contemplative rooftop scene. It intercuts shots of Mr Darcy glimpsed from a departing carriage, through a doorway, and riding his horse. Additional evocative imagery includes Corrin's hand holding a pebble, a figure running along a path, and a fleeting moment of Elizabeth and Mr Darcy dancing together, all set to a soundtrack of gentle birdsong. Netflix has explicitly stated the series aims to 'faithfully bring Jane Austen's iconic story back to life for audiences that cherish it, while inspiring a new generation to fall in love with it for the first time'.
Behind the Scenes and Legacy
The series has been written and executive produced by bestselling author Dolly Alderton, known for Everything I Know About Love. Alderton expressed her honour in being part of this new adaptation, describing Austen's work as 'the blueprint for romantic comedy'. She highlighted the joy of finding 'both familiar and fresh ways' to adapt the beloved book, with director Euros Lyn at the helm.
This adaptation enters a long lineage of screen versions, following the celebrated 1995 BBC series starring Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle and the 2005 film featuring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen. Interestingly, the teaser has already been shown to audiences in cinemas screening Emerald Fennell's new adaptation of Wuthering Heights, building early buzz. While an exact release date remains under wraps, anticipation is building for this autumn's premiere, marking the latest chapter in the enduring appeal of Austen's masterpiece.
