Sanditon (2019) is a period drama based on Jane Austen’s unfinished novel of the same name. Created by Andrew Davies, the series takes Austen’s original material and expands it into a lavish and dramatic exploration of love, ambition, and societal change in Regency-era England. With stunning cinematography, compelling performances, and a mix of romance and intrigue, Sanditon offers an engaging watch for fans of historical dramas—though its abrupt ending leaves audiences longing for more.
At the heart of Sanditon is Charlotte Heywood (Rose Williams), a spirited and intelligent young woman who finds herself in the seaside town of Sanditon after a chance encounter with the Parker family. As she becomes entangled in the ambitions of Tom Parker (Kris Marshall) to transform the town into a grand resort, she also crosses paths with the brooding and mysterious Sidney Parker (Theo James). Their fiery and complex relationship provides much of the series’ romantic tension, echoing the classic Austen trope of initially clashing personalities evolving into deep affection.
One of the show’s strengths lies in its richly developed characters. Beyond Charlotte and Sidney, Sanditon introduces a variety of intriguing figures, including the ambitious and calculating Lady Denham (Anne Reid), the charming but irresponsible Edward Denham (Jack Fox), and the independent and wealthy heiress Miss Georgiana Lambe (Crystal Clarke), one of Austen’s few Black characters. Each character brings their own motivations and struggles, adding layers of drama and complexity to the story.
Visually, Sanditon is a feast for the eyes. The breathtaking seaside landscapes, elegant Regency costumes, and grand ballrooms transport viewers into the world of Austen’s England. The cinematography captures both the beauty of the English coast and the bustling energy of a town on the brink of transformation. The period-accurate details in fashion and setting further enhance the authenticity of the story.
However, while the series successfully expands on Austen’s unfinished work, it also takes creative liberties that may not appeal to all purists. The inclusion of more modern themes—such as racial identity, social mobility, and female independence—adds depth to the narrative but sometimes feels out of sync with Austen’s traditional storytelling. Additionally, Sanditon leans more into melodrama than Austen’s typical wit and social satire, making it feel more akin to contemporary historical dramas than a faithful Austen adaptation.
Perhaps the most controversial aspect of Sanditon is its unresolved ending. Since Austen never finished the novel, the series had the challenge of crafting its own conclusion. However, rather than providing a satisfying resolution, the first season ends on a heartbreaking cliffhanger, leaving Charlotte and Sidney’s love story unfinished. While later seasons attempted to provide closure, many viewers were left frustrated by the lack of a traditional Austen-style happy ending.
Despite its flaws, Sanditon remains a compelling and beautifully crafted period drama. With strong performances, stunning visuals, and a story full of romance and ambition, it captures the essence of Austen’s world while introducing fresh new elements. Though it may not fully satisfy Austen purists, it offers an entertaining and emotionally engaging experience for fans of historical dramas. If you’re looking for a show filled with passion, intrigue, and the charm of Regency-era England, Sanditon is well worth watching.
