This Oscar-nominated costume drama is based on a 19th century Jane Austen novel and contains a little bit of everything ranging from comedy to romance to drama. Like most Austen stories, this one concerns the trials and tribulations of England's upper classes. Set in the late 18th century, the plot chronicles the exploits of the three Dashwood daughters and their mother. Their plight begins when Mrs. Dashwood's husband dies and leaves his fabulous estate to his eldest son from his first marriage, John who immediately takes over and leaves his stepmother and half-sisters only 500 pounds year on which to survive. Fortunately, sensible Elinor, the oldest, smartest, and least likely to marry sister is there to maintain a balance and to insure that her sisters remain on the straight and narrow. Free-spirited, teenage Marianne is interested in romance and fun while 11-year-old tomboy Margaret is most happy hanging out by herself in trees. A kindly cousin finds them a tiny cottage. Just before moving in, they meet the shy, handsome Edward, the brother of Fanny, John's snooty wife. Edward falls in love with Elinor. Unfortunately, before he can propose, Fanny sends him to London. Meanwhile the women begin attending the social gatherings of Sir John Middleton and Mrs. Jennings, his mother-in-law. Later, Marianne is courted by the wealthy but dour Col. Brandon. Unfortunately for him, she falls in love with the exciting John Wiloughby after he saves her life. A mystery arises when Brandon and then Wiloughby are suddenly dispatched to London with no explanation.