New ‘Sense & Sensibility’ Film Features Period-Appropriate 18th-Century Folk Music in Soundtrack

The new adaptation of Jane Austen’s ‘Sense & Sensibility,’ directed by Georgia Oakley and adapted by Diana Reid, has arrived in UK cinemas, starring Daisy Edgar-Jones as Elinor Dashwood and Esmé Creed-Miles as Marianne Dashwood. The film, released on September 25, 2026, follows the Dashwood family after the death of Mr. Dashwood, leaving the women to face reduced circumstances and a move to a Devon cottage. The story involves complex relationships with Edward Ferrars, John Willoughby, and Colonel Brandon, portrayed by George MacKay, Frank Dillane, and Herbert Nordrum, respectively. The film’s soundtrack stands out for its use of specially recorded 18th-century English folk music, rather than modern pop songs or contemporary covers. Music supervisor Connie Farr sourced and recorded these period-appropriate songs to fit the film’s late-1790s setting. The Fibonacci Quartet performs in the movie and features on the soundtrack, with Graham McCusker serving as music director and pianist. Composer Roger Goula created the original score, with his work directly influenced by early footage of the film. Director Oakley noted that approximately 80% of Goula’s initial musical sketches were used in the final film, making it distinct from the 1995 Ang Lee adaptation, which featured Patrick Doyle’s Oscar-nominated score including ‘Weep You No More Sad Fountains.’ The film also stars Caitríona Balfe, Fiona Shaw, Stacy Martin, and Tom Brooke. This approach to the soundtrack emphasizes historical authenticity, aligning with the film’s period setting and offering a fresh take on the classic story.