If you have a Bridgerton-shaped hole in your heart,Netflix is here to save the day — again! Just as one door closed on Bridgerton with the end ofseason 2, another door opens with the start of Persuasion, an adaptation of the classic Jane Austen novel of the same name. Another binge-worthy period drama? Yes please.
The story revolves around our heroine Anne Elliot as she pines for her lost love Frederick Wentworth, a man her family is set against her marrying. So, will Persuasion live up to the hype? Here's everything we know about Netflix's upcoming romantic drama.
What is Persuasion about?
Persuasion is based on Jane Austen’s sixth and final novel. It follows 27-year-old Anne, a woman whose family rented out their home to an admiral and his wife. Anne falls in love and gets engaged to the wife’s brother, Frederick Wentworth. Their engagement gets broken off and seven years later they meet again. The show's synopsis reads: 'Living with her snobby family on the brink of bankruptcy, Anne Elliot is an unconforming woman with modern sensibilities.' It continues, 'When Frederick Wentworth - the dashing one she once sent away - crashes back into her life, Anne must choose between putting the past behind her or listening to her heart when it comes to second chances.'
How is Netflix's Persuasion different to the Jane Austen novel?
According to both Netflix and first-time feature film director Carrie Cracknell, the film will stay true to Austen's 19th Century novel. However, it will also offer a 'modern, witty approach' to the story. In the trailer, we see elements of that modern approach. The story is told in a very Fleabag-esque style; as there is a moment where Anne breaks the fourth wall, staring and talking into the camera.
Who has been cast in Persuasion?
This is a stellar cast, ladies and gentleman! We have Dakota Johnson playing leading lady Anne Elliot. Back in December 2021, Dakota told Vogue that she had a blast filming Persuasion. 'Doing a Jane Austen film is the dream, and there are only a few of them so I feel incredibly lucky,' she said at the time. 'The cast is amazing and our director Carrie Cracknell is fantastic.'
Her love interest, Frederick Wentworth, is played by Cosmo Jarvis. The film also includes Henry Golding as Mr Elliot, and Richard E Grant playing Sir Walter Elliot. To round things off, we also have Suki Waterhouse and Edward Bluemel aboard. Tally-ho!
Is there a Persuasion trailer?
Yes indeed! It has received a mixed response so far, but let's hold onto hope for the actual release. Watch the juicy trailer below:
When is Persuasion being released?
Your new favourite period-drama is only a month away. Persuasion airs on Netflix on 15 July 2022.