Sense and Sensibility the Screenplay and Diaries collects Emma Thompson‘s screenplay for the 1995 film, adapted from Jane Austen’s novel, as well as Thompson’s diaries for the production of the film.
Finished on: 20.7.2019

I really love the film (I’m rather surprised that I never reviewed it here), so when I heard that the script was published, and that there was even additional material in the form of Thompson’s diaries for the production, I knew I had to track it down. And I’m absolutely glad I did. The script itself is an extremely nice read, but the real treat are the diaries – a warm look behind the scenes with a wonderful sense of humor.

I will skip the plot summary for the film, but let me tell you, despite having seen the film more than ten times for sure, despite the novel being my favorite Austen novel (and one of my favorite novels, period), I was completely wrapped up in the story again when I read the script. I couldn’t read it without shedding a couple of tears and I followed events breathlessly during the read. The script is just so good, and it works so very well.

But the bigger thing for me here were Thompson’s diaries. Such a good read, giving you a glimpse of the production, always with a twinkle in her eyes and a sense of humor that really had me laughing out loud. Thompson has a wonderful way to give you an idea of somebody’s personality with just a few, well-chosen words that makes me regret that she doesn’t have a substantial bibliography.

In short, reading this was really great, especially for a fan of the film (and Thompson). And, of course, as soon as I was done with it, I had to re-watch the film.

Summarizing: can only recommend it.