Netflix to adapt classic Australian novel My Brilliant Career into a series

My Brilliant Career is getting a new life on screen. Netflix is turning Miles Franklin's 1901 novel into a period drama series, bringing a new face to the independent character Sybylla Melvyn.

The story, set in the wild heart of Australia, talks about a young woman defying limits that have been placed on her dreams. With production now in process, the adaptation vouches to reintroduce a feminist icon to today's contemporary audience in a bold manner.

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A new page turns for My Brilliant Career

The decision to adapt My Brilliant Career into a Netflix show highlights a powerful return for one of Australia's most celebrated literary works.

With its rebel lead Sybylla, the story unpacks against the backdrop of rural 1890s Australia. Cast in the lead is Philippa Northeast, known for The Newsreader, who steps into Sybylla's shoes—a determined young woman resisting the typical life mapped out for women by the society of her time.

Her journey to find meaning that goes above and beyond marriage is what makes this story feel relevant even today.

This new adaptation is not just about one girl's refusal to fit into a mold. It's also a showcase of some of Australia's finest acting talents. Alongside Northeast are Christopher Chung as Sybylla's suitor Harry, Anna Chancellor as her grandmother Mrs Bossier, and Genevieve O'Reilly as Aunt Helen.

The supporting cast for My Brilliant Career includes Kate Mulvany, Jake Dunn, Alexander England, Miah Madden, and Sherry-Lee Watson. Their performances are set to bring in new life into Franklin's beloved characters, whose battles with class, identity, and agency continue to resonate even today.

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What's going on behind the cameras?

Bringing My Brilliant Career to screen is a team of creatives who are deeply rooted in Australian storytelling. At the top is executive producer and writer Liz Doran, who is no stranger when it comes to portraying complex and layered characters.

According to Deadline, executive producer and writer Liz Doran says;

“It’s been a privilege to work with so many incredible creatives on this reimagining of Miles Franklin’s rollicking tale of a young woman’s quest to determine her own life...”

She teams up with Alyssa McClelland and Chloe Rickard, both well known producers, ensuring the adaptation stays true to Franklin's original work while also attempting to speak to modern women and viewers.

Chloe Rickard further adds;

“It’s thrilling to bring this Australian classic to a whole new audience. Partnering with Netflix and fellow executive producers Liz Doran and Alyssa McClelland, with Philippa Northeast as our rebellious and witty Sybylla, has been the stuff that dreams are made of.”

Filming for My Brilliant Career has kicked off in South Australia, including at Adelaide Studios, with support from the South Australian Film Corporation. SAFC CEO Kate Croser emphasized that the production will use mostly local talent and crew, highlighting the region's growing reputation as a production hub.

Paul Ranford is joining the team as producer alongside directors Alyssa McClelland and Anne Renton, with Renton also co-producing.

This adaptation is more than just a return to a literary classic. It's a celebration of Australian talent and timeless storytelling. With Netflix backing the project, the series is set to reach international audiences, bringing Sybylla's spirit to screens far beyond the Australian setting.

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With My Brilliant Career, Netflix isn't simply going back to a classic but rather it's firing up the legacy of a woman who dared to dream out loud in a world where no one would let her.

The show stands ready to connect the newer generation with Sybylla's voice, voicing for a call for freedom that still stands necessary in today's society.