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How did the 1995 film Sense and Sensibility adapt Jane Austen’s novel?

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Portrait of Jane Austen seated, wearing a light blue dress and bonnet, holding a closed book on her lap with a thoughtful expression. — Jane Austen Jane Austen, a 19th-century engraving likely derived from a portrait by her sister, Cassandra Austen, c. 1810.

The 1995 film adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel Sense and Sensibility was directed by Ang Lee and featured a screenplay written by Emma Thompson, who also starred as Elinor Dashwood.123

The film is widely regarded as a critical and commercial success, and it is credited with sparking a significant resurgence of interest in Austen’s literary works. Thompson’s work on the script was highly acclaimed, earning her an Academy Award for best adapted screenplay.213

Regarding the production, Ang Lee—who was known for his work on Chinese-language family dramas—was chosen to direct the project, marking a pivotal moment in his career as he demonstrated his ability to handle a British period piece. To evoke the poignant performances that became a hallmark of the film, Lee worked closely with the cast, at times even utilizing tai chi chuan exercises to guide the actors. The film also starred Kate Winslet as Marianne Dashwood, Hugh Grant as Edward Ferrars, and Alan Rickman as Colonel Brandon.413