There’s something special about the drama of an epic period piece. They transport us to a different time. A time of romance, dashing gentlemen, carriage rides, beautiful balls and gorgeous costumes. Even the language feels more clever. Of course, in the case of Jane Austen stories, the dialogue has a quick wit and sharpness that’s ahead of its time. The one piece of this puzzle that’s consistently missing is the presence of Black people.
When we watch these films, they’re usually extra white. There are no Black people to be found anywhere. This could be done to avoid addressing uncomfortable questions about slavery and class. However, it’s just silly to act like there were no Black people around during these periods, and that the only way we can be included is as servants.
Netflix’s hit series “Bridgerton” showed how audiences will respond to the inclusion of more diverse casts in the genre. Now, Hallmark Channel is entering the chat with a Black version of the Austen classic, “Sense and Sensibility.” Presented through its Mahogany title, the film follows sisters Elinor and Marianne Dashwood as they try to find love following their family’s change of fortune.
We’re used to seeing the likes of Kate Winslet, Keira Knightley and Gwyneth Paltrow as the heroines of these stories, so it’s joyous to see Black women in the spotlight, getting the romance they deserve. Casting talented Black actresses doesn’t dim the enjoyment of the story. If anything, it makes it more fascinating.
And guess what? Black men can be dashing gentlemen who ride up on a horse and save the damsel in distress. They’re charming, smart and handsome heroes who are more than capable of making the female lead swoon.
Black fans enjoy all aspects of entertainment, including period pieces. We just want to see ourselves in the art we love. And in case you haven’t figured it out yet, excluding us from the story does not exclude us from history.
“Sense and Sensibility” premieres Saturday, Feb. 24 at 8 p.m. on Hallmark Channel.