Northanger Abbey (1987)
A BBC adaptation of Jane Austen's witty novel, following a young dreamer who discovers that society runs on wealth, not romance.
Northanger Abbey - Movie Information
- Original Title: Northanger Abbey
- Release Year: 1987
- Directed by: Giles Foster
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, Romance, TV Movie
- Runtime: 1h 28m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Alternative Titles: Нортенґерське абатство (UA)
- Production Companies: BBC, A+E Studios
- Production Countries: United Kingdom, United States of America
Northanger Abbey - Plot
A young girl, whose head is full of romantic and melodramatic notions, goes to stay with the wealthy Tilney family. Through her adventures, Catherine Morland comes to learn that marriage in the society of her day is determined not by true love but by wealth and social status.
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Northanger Abbey - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Giles Foster
Main Cast
- Katharine Schlesinger
- Peter Firth
- Robert Hardy
- Googie Withers
- Cassie Stuart
- Jonathan Coy
- Angela Curran
- Ingrid Lacey
- Greg Hicks
- Helen Fraser
Writers
- Maggie Wadey
Producers
- Louis Marks
Northanger Abbey - FAQs
What is Northanger Abbey (1987) about?
Northanger Abbey follows Catherine Morland, a young woman with a head full of Gothic romance fantasies, as she visits the grand Tilney estate. There she discovers that real-life society runs on wealth and status rather than the passionate love stories she has always imagined. It's a charming, gently satirical take on Jane Austen's novel.
Is Northanger Abbey based on a Jane Austen novel?
Yes, this 1987 BBC production is adapted from Jane Austen's novel of the same name, one of her earliest completed works. The screenplay was written by Maggie Wadey, who translated Austen's sharp social satire and Gothic parody into an engaging television film.
Where can you stream Northanger Abbey (1987)?
You can stream Northanger Abbey on BritBox, Amazon Prime Video, the BritBox Amazon Channel, the Britbox Apple TV Channel, Amazon Prime Video with Ads, and The Roku Channel. It's widely available, so finding a way to watch shouldn't be a problem.
Does Catherine Morland end up with Henry Tilney?
Without giving too much away, the romance between Catherine and the witty, kind-hearted Henry Tilney is very much the emotional heart of the story. The film follows Austen's novel closely, so fans of the book will find the ending satisfying and true to the spirit of the original.
Who stars in Northanger Abbey (1987)?
Katharine Schlesinger plays the imaginative Catherine Morland, with Peter Firth as the charming Henry Tilney. The supporting cast includes Robert Hardy as the imposing General Tilney, Googie Withers as Mrs Allen, and Cassie Stuart as the scheming Isabella Thorpe.
How does this 1987 version compare to other adaptations?
The 1987 BBC version is considered a faithful and understated adaptation of Austen's novel. It predates the more lavish 2007 ITV film and is appreciated for its period authenticity and restrained performances. Fans of classic BBC literary adaptations tend to hold it in high regard.
Who directed Northanger Abbey (1987)?
Giles Foster directed this BBC production. Foster was a prolific British television director known for his work on literary adaptations and period dramas throughout the 1980s and 1990s, bringing a careful, measured approach to Austen's satirical story.
Is Northanger Abbey (1987) worth watching today?
Absolutely, especially for fans of Jane Austen and classic BBC period dramas. Katharine Schlesinger brings real warmth to Catherine Morland, and the film captures Austen's gentle mockery of Gothic fiction beautifully. It may feel quieter than modern adaptations, but its charm and wit hold up well.
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