Long before he defined the role of the brooding Professor Snape, the late, great Alan Rickman gave a performance many consider his finest in a cherished period drama. This cinematic gem, which paired him with the formidable Emma Thompson, continues to captivate audiences decades later.
A Stellar Cast in a Classic Tale
The film in question is the 1995 adaptation of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility, directed by Ang Lee. Emma Thompson not only starred as the sensible Elinor Dashwood but also wrote the Oscar-winning screenplay. She was joined by a young Kate Winslet, who played her passionate sister Marianne, and Hugh Grant.
Rickman took on the role of the reserved but deeply honourable Colonel Brandon, a suitor to Marianne. His poignant performance offered a stark contrast to the more flamboyant characters he often played, showcasing his remarkable range.
Critical Acclaim and Box Office Success
Upon its release, the film was met with widespread critical acclaim and commercial success. It proved to be a major awards contender, securing 11 BAFTA nominations. Most notably, Emma Thompson made history by winning the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, becoming the first person ever to win Oscars for both acting and writing.
Fans and critics alike praised the production as a near-perfect adaptation. Reviews on sites like Rotten Tomatoes frequently describe it as "impeccable film making" and "the most perfect movie". One admirer highlighted the "masterclass" delivered by Thompson and Rickman, while another noted the joy of seeing Rickman in a role where his character finally finds a happy ending.
An Enduring Legacy and On-Screen Chemistry
The film's legacy extends beyond the screen. It was on this set that Emma Thompson met actor Greg Wise, who played her character's romantic rival, John Willoughby. The pair later married in 2003. However, it was the palpable on-screen chemistry between Thompson and Rickman that truly defined the film for many viewers.
Their professional partnership was so successful that they reunited in 2003 for the festive hit Love Actually, cementing a lasting friendship. For those eager to revisit or discover this classic, Sense and Sensibility is currently available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer and can also be viewed on Amazon Prime.
Decades on, this adaptation stands as a testament to Rickman's extraordinary talent beyond the world of Hogwarts, reminding audiences why he remains one of Britain's most beloved and missed actors.
