The new series Sanditon (8×60’), an adaptation of Jane Austen´s last unfinished novel presented by BBC Studios in its Showcase this year as an important bet, produced by Red Planet Pictures, started shooting this week in Bristol, England and is estimated to be available worldwide at the end of the year.
“The first episode of the series is the entire book, and towards the end, it is new material. It is fun to have a book by Austen that takes place entirely in her world, but nobody knows how it will end. This is what will maintain the audience excited and coming back each week to see the next episode,” commented Alex Jones, general co-director and Nick Lambon, assistant producer, both from Red Planet Pictures.
Jones and Lambon mentioned that this would be the series first season and that they expect to confirm a second one soon.
Jones explained that since it is an unfinished novel, it allows for many opportunities and the possibility of bringing new characters.
They feel this adaptation will bring a broader audience due to the more modern topics it presents.
“I think the elements in Jane Austen´s stories that attract worldwide audiences are present in Sanditon: romance, relationships. Also, it is about a country that is undergoing great changes and how the characters adapt to that change.”
Sanditon will be aired in the US, on PBS´ Masterpiece and on ITV in the UK. The stars of the series include Rose William, Theo James, Anne Reid, and Kris Marshall. Andrew Davies made the adaptation and is the executive producer. BBC Studios distributes worldwide.