Film

Esmé Creed-Miles Brings Fresh Spirit to 'Sense and Sensibility' as a New Marianne Dashwood

By Rhys Dunbar, Film EditorApril 9, 20241 note

The latest adaptation of Jane Austen's beloved novel features a new Marianne, played by breakout star Esmé Creed-Miles, who brings a punk-rock edge and fresh energy to the classic role.

Esmé Creed-Miles, the British actress celebrated for her breakout roles, steps into the role of Marianne Dashwood in Georgia Oakley's striking new adaptation of 'Sense and Sensibility.' Her take on Austen's lovesick middle sister is part punk-rock rebel, part wild child—an energetic departure from previous portrayals that breathes new life into the 1811 novel. Creed-Miles’s performance has been praised for its raw heart and contemporary edge, signaling a fresh direction for the classic story.

The film's premiere at the United Theater in Los Angeles drew attention not only for its modern sensibilities but also for Creed-Miles’s standout performance. She’s been candid about her desire to see the earlier, iconic adaptation by Ang Lee—starring Kate Winslet and Emma Thompson—despite not having watched it yet. “I haven’t had a second to watch a movie the past few weeks,” she told IndieWire, expressing her eagerness to sit down with her on-screen sister Daisy Edgar-Jones, who plays Elinor, for an Austen marathon once filming wrapped.

Creed-Miles’s approach to her role reflects a deliberate effort to forge her own version of Marianne. She admitted she was initially wary of the previous cinematic renditions, including Lee’s widely acclaimed adaptation, because she didn’t want to be intimidated by the legacy of those performances. Her fresh perspective may be partly due to missing out on those prior versions, allowing her to craft a Marianne that feels uniquely her own. More context: Film.

The actress’s rising star was evident during the premiere, where her charisma and authentic vulnerability shone through. Critics have noted her as a breakout talent, bringing a new vitality to the character that could redefine how audiences see Marianne in future adaptations. Her performance signals a promising career trajectory, one that blends indie grit with an instinctive emotional honesty.

FilmIndie film