“The Other Bennet Sister Cast Explores Love for Austen”
In a creative expansion of Jane Austen’s universe, the BBC is set to release a new series titled The Other Bennet Sister. The show focuses on Mary Bennet, the often-overlooked middle sister of the Bennet family from the beloved novel Pride and Prejudice. Screenwriter Sarah Quintrell reflects on her early hesitation about Austen, stating that her subsequent connection with the characters was profound.
Mary Bennet Takes Center Stage
The series draws inspiration from Janice Hadlow’s novel, reimagining Mary’s journey as she takes a position as a governess for the Gardiner family. This storyline emphasizes her development and self-acceptance, something actress Ella Bruccoleri finds relatable. She describes Mary as an “atypical period drama heroine,” and emphasizes the importance of telling her story, which resonates with contemporary audiences.
Character Costumes and Personal Growth
Costume designer Sian Jenkins has creatively curated the sisters’ outfits based on floral motifs. Each sister’s attire highlights her distinct personality: Jane’s costumes reflect a rose, Lizzy’s evoke a cornflower, Kitty’s resemble an iris, and Lydia’s a wild primrose.
- Jane Bennet – Rose
- Elizabeth (Lizzy) Bennet – Cornflower
- Kitty Bennet – Iris
- Lydia Bennet – Wild Primrose
As the series unfolds, Mary’s wardrobe transitions from muted colors to vibrant hues, illustrating her journey toward self-identity despite her mother’s critical nature. Bruccoleri shares that one of Mary’s core challenges is seeking validation beyond her mother’s expectations.
Resonance of Austen’s Themes
The cast believes that Austen’s insights on relationships and societal structures remain relevant today. Grace Hogg-Robinson, who plays Lydia, acknowledges the timelessness of Austen’s feminism and social critiques, especially regarding marriage. The cast highlights how characters like Mary reflect experiences that many individuals face, particularly teenagers navigating their identities amidst societal pressures.
Maddie Close, portraying Jane, voices a shared sentiment that Mary’s evolution is particularly appealing to youth. She characterizes Mary’s story as a beautiful journey that many can relate to, especially in an era of social media comparisons.
A Timeless Connection
As Austen’s 250th birthday approaches, the cast emphasizes the enduring relevance of her work. They believe the emotional depth of her characters allows audiences to find parallels in their lives, fostering a greater connection to the narratives. Quintrell expresses her hope that viewers will feel a sense of ownership to Austen’s stories, acknowledging that they speak to diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Ultimately, The Other Bennet Sister promises to provide a fresh perspective on Pride and Prejudice. It seeks not only to delve into the nuances of Mary Bennet’s character but also to illuminate the timeless themes of love and self-discovery that resonate across generations.
Fans eagerly await the series, anticipating a deeper look into the lives of the Bennet sisters and the societal challenges they face.
