Anne Elliot reflects, “I almost got married once. Wentworth and I were perfectly in sync, but my family persuaded me to end things,” says Dakota Johnson, portraying Anne and looking wistfully into the camera. This sets the stage for the trailer of Netflix’s 2022 adaptation of Persuasion, based on Jane Austen’s novel.
Given the success of Bridgerton, it isn’t surprising that Netflix chose to adapt another Jane Austen classic. Persuasion centers on Anne Elliot, who reconnects with her former love, Captain Wentworth, eight years after being persuaded not to marry him. The story explores whether they will get a second chance or move on with someone else.
Before the trailer wraps up, Anne Elliot, gazing into the camera, declares, “Don’t let anyone tell you how to live or who to love.”
If the film lives up to its trailer, it could become a new favorite among Austen adaptations like Sense and Sensibility (1995) with Emma Thompson and Kate Winslet, Pride and Prejudice (1995) starring Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle, or the 2005 version featuring Keira Knightley and Matthew MacFadyen. We’ll find out when Persuasion hits Netflix later this summer.
Details about the 2022 Persuasion movie starring Dakota Johnson:
Persuasion 2022 Release Date
The movie will be available on Netflix in the U.S. from July 15, 2022, at 12:00 AM MST, so fans of period dramas and Jane Austen should mark their calendars!
Persuasion 2022 Cast & Crew
The film marks the feature debut of Broadway and British theatre director Carrie Cracknell, with Alice Victoria Winslow and Ron Bass writing the screenplay. Dakota Johnson stars as Anne Elliot, known for her roles in the 50 Shades series and The Lost Daughter. Cosmo Jarvis (Lady Macbeth, Peaky Blinders) plays Captain Frederick Wentworth. The charming Henry Golding (Crazy Rich Asians) plays Mr. Elliot, Anne’s dubious cousin.
Additionally, Richard E. Grant stars as Anne’s snobbish father, Sir Walter Elliot, and Nikki Amuka-Bird as Lady Russell. The cast includes Suki Waterhouse, Ben Bailey Smith, Izuka Hoyle, Mia McKenna-Bruce, Nia Towle, Edward Bluemel, Lydia Rose Bewley, and Yolanda Kettle.
Netflix’s Official Synopsis
Anne Elliot, living with her financially struggling, snobby family, must choose between leaving the past behind or rekindling a romance with the dashing Captain Wentworth when he re-enters her life.
Trailer Reaction
The trailer is impressive, featuring beautiful visuals and luxurious costumes reminiscent of the 2005 Pride and Prejudice adaptation. The witty approach is similar to the 1999 Mansfield Park adaptation. The diverse cast, clever tone, and gorgeous cinematography are highlights. However, there’s a concern that Anne’s character might be portrayed differently from the introverted heroine in the book, leaning more towards the witty nature of Elizabeth Bennet.
More Fun Tidbits about Persuasion on Netflix
Principal filming began in May 2021, around Bath, where Jane Austen once lived. Director Carrie Cracknell’s playful, modern approach to the adaptation appealed to Dakota Johnson. Johnson appreciated the modernized language, the breaking of the fourth wall, and the enduring relevance of strong-willed women.
Henry Golding and Richard E. Grant also enjoyed their roles, with Golding’s loose portrayal of his character and Grant’s take on Sir Walter Elliot’s flamboyance. The adaptation aims to balance a modern touch with authentic Austen essence.
Jane Austen’s Persuasion
Published by Penguin Random House, the novel is widely considered the most moving of Austen’s works, focusing on second chances. It tells the story of Anne Elliot, once engaged to a naval officer who returns years later. The narrative of love, pride, and social encounters in Bath makes it a timeless classic.
Previous Adaptations of Persuasion
If you’re interested in earlier versions, Persuasion (1971) is available on YouTube or DVD, the 1995 adaptation featuring Ciaran Hinds and Amanda Root can be rented or bought, and the 2007 version starring Sally Hawkins and Rupert Penry-Jones is on BritBox or DVD.
Persuasion Review
The movie is now available for streaming on Netflix. For a detailed review, you can access our complete thoughts.
How excited are you about the new Persuasion adaptation? Does it seem like a faithful rendition of Jane Austen’s beloved story? Let us know your thoughts!
