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Meet the Classics

Persuasion: book vs. movie

Persuasion has fewer adaptations than Pride and Prejudice, but there are still several well-known versions, from a 1971 TV series to a 2022 Netflix film and a modern New York retelling. They range from very faithful to playfully modern. This page lists the main ones, how close each stays to Jane Austen’s book, and what parents of 6–9 year olds should know, so you can choose the gentlest place to start.

Which version should we watch?

For a first watch with a 6–9 year old, try the 1995 film or the 2007 film after reading the story together in a retelling. Both are gentle, short and close to the book, though the 1995 version is the most faithful. Children who like the story will enjoy seeing the navy officers and the seaside at Lyme.

The 2022 Netflix film is mild, but its modern jokes change Anne a great deal, so it works best once children know the real story. Save Modern Persuasion for teens and adults.

The film and TV versions

  • Persuasion (2022)

    FilmRated PGLoosely based

    Dakota Johnson plays Anne in this Netflix film, with Cosmo Jarvis as Wentworth and Henry Golding as Mr Elliot. Anne talks straight to the camera, and the tone is jokey and modern.

    For families: Mild and short, with no violence, though Anne drinks wine for comedy. Modern jokes may confuse children who know the story.

  • Persuasion (2007)

    FilmMostly faithful

    A British TV film with Sally Hawkins as Anne and Rupert Penry-Jones as Wentworth. It is moody and emotional, with a famous ending where Anne runs through Bath.

    For families: Gentle and only about an hour and a half. Children may find the quiet, sad parts slow.

  • Persuasion (1995)

    FilmRated PGVery close to the book

    Amanda Root and Ciarán Hinds star in Roger Michell’s realistic, beautifully acted film, made for the BBC and shown in cinemas. Many fans think it is the best version.

    For families: Very gentle, with only brief mild language. The serious mood suits children who already know and like the story.

  • Persuasion (1971)

    TV seriesVery close to the book

    A five-part ITV series made by Granada, with Ann Firbank as Anne and Bryan Marshall as Wentworth.

    For families: Wholesome but slow and old-fashioned in look. Best for Austen-loving families.

  • Modern Persuasion (2020)

    Modern retellingModern retelling

    Alicia Witt plays Wren, a busy New York advertising executive who meets her old love again. Her cat is named Wentworth.

    For families: A light romantic comedy for grown-ups, with dating jokes. Better for teens and adults.

How the movies differ from the book

Anne talks to the camera
In the 2022 Netflix film, Anne often turns and speaks to the audience. In the book, we learn her thoughts quietly through the narrator, and she rarely says them aloud.
A funnier, clumsier Anne
The 2022 film makes Anne a comic heroine who spills things, drinks wine and makes wry jokes. In the book, Anne is calm, patient and gentle, and much of her sadness is hidden.
Modern words in an old world
The 2022 film uses modern phrases, such as calling Wentworth her “ex.” The book uses the language of Austen’s time, which gives it a quieter feel.
Less of the waiting and longing
The 2022 film moves fast, so the long years of Anne’s quiet hoping feel shorter. In the book, the slow build of feeling is what makes the letter so powerful.
A run through Bath
The 2007 film ends with Anne running through the streets of Bath to find Wentworth. In the book, the two meet calmly and walk together, talking at last.

Questions about Persuasion movies

Is Persuasion (2022) OK for kids?
It is rated PG and has no violence, so it is mild. But it changes the story’s tone a lot, so it is better after children already know the book.
What is the best Persuasion movie?
Many Austen fans choose the 1995 film with Amanda Root and Ciarán Hinds, which is the closest to the book. The 2007 film with Sally Hawkins is also well loved.
Is the Netflix Persuasion the same as the book?
Not quite. The 2022 film keeps the main story but makes Anne talk to the camera and adds modern jokes and phrases.
What movie is based on Persuasion?
Film versions include Persuasion (1995), Persuasion (2007) and Persuasion (2022), plus the modern retelling Modern Persuasion (2020).

Ratings are shown only where we could confirm them. Check current ratings and streaming details before watching.