Dakota Johnsonhas signed on to star in a modern adaptation of Jane Austen’s last novelPersuasionthat is being mounted by Netflix and MRC Entertainment, Collider has confirmed.
The project will mark the feature directorial debut of theatre directorCarrie Cracknell, who directedJake GyllenhallandTom Sturridgeto Tony nominations last year inSea Wall/A Lifeon Broadway.Ron Bass, who won an Oscar forRain Manand also pennedMy Best Friend’s Wedding, co-wrote the script withAlice Victoria Winslow.
Johnson will play Anne Elliot, a non-conforming woman with modern sensibilities who lives with her snobby family on the brink of bankruptcy. When her dashing ex Frederick Wentworth comes crashing back into her life, Anne must choose whether to put the past behind her or listen to her heart when it comes to second chances.
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Netflix and MRC describe the adaptation as a “modern, witty approach to a beloved story” that will still “remain true” to Austen’s novel, which was published shortly after her death in 1817. The book has been adapted several times before for both television and the stage.
Andrew Lazar(American Sniper) andChristina Weiss Lurie(Bruised) will produce the feature adaptation ofPersuasion, which will be executive produced byElizabeth Cantillon,Michael ConstableandDavid Fliegel. Production is expected to start next month.
Johnson has been building an interesting resume since putting theFifty Shadesfranchise behind her. She recently starred in the well-received indiesThe Peanut Butter FalconandOur Friend, and she’ll soon be seen alongsideOlivia ColmaninMaggie Gyllenhaal’s directorial debutThe Lost Daughter. She has also wrappedStephanie AllynneandTig Notaro’s indieAm I OK?and will soon begin filmingCooper Raiff’sCha Cha Real Smooth. This Jane Austen adaptation may not interest me personally, but it strikes me as a smart career move for the actress, who has shown real promise ever since her breakout role inThe Social Network.
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