Meet the Stars of 'Jane Austen's Period Drama', Oscar Nominee for Best Short Film

Published 02/13/2026, 9:00 AM EST

Jane Austen’s Period Drama takes the beloved tropes of classic literature and injects them with a sharp, modern comedic edge. The story follows the Talbot sisters as they navigate a social visit while one sister experiences her first period. Eleven perfect actors set the stage for a series of misunderstandings that highlight the absurdity of historical gender expectations.

Who are the performers that bring the eccentric Talbot household to life with remarkable wit and comedic timing?

Who are the leading cast of Jane Austen’s Period Drama?

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The primary actors successfully balance the delicate requirements of period mannerisms with high-energy, physical comedy.

Julia Aks leads the production as Estrogenia ‘Essy’ Talbot, the protagonist whose sudden biological milestone becomes the center of a domestic crisis. Her performance captures the frantic energy of a woman trying to maintain her dignity amidst a sea of confusion and societal pressure.

Samantha Smart portrays Labinia Talbot, providing a sisterly dynamic that oscillates between support and social panic. Her character reflects the intense pressure to remain marriageable in a society that views basic biology as a scandalous secret.

Nicole Alyse Nelson joins the trio as Vagianna Talbot, rounding out the sisters with her distinct presence and sharp delivery. The chemistry between the three leads creates a believable family unit that feels both grounded and wonderfully heightened.

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The ensemble is further strengthened by these dedicated actors who fill the Talbot estate with personality.

Supporting cast of Jane Austen’s Period Drama

The ensemble cast works in perfect harmony to ensure every background interaction feels intentional and funny.

Hugo Armstrong takes on the role of Mr. Father Talbot, the patriarch who remains blissfully, or perhaps willfully, ignorant of the chaos unfolding in his home.

Ta’imua appears as Mr. Dickley, adding to the social complications that the sisters must manage.

The household staff and medical professionals provide additional layers of comedy, led by:

Marilyn Brett as Mrs. Bitts.

Dustin Ingram portrays Dr. Bangley, whose medical expertise likely reflects the humorous inaccuracies of the time.

Steve Pinder features as Barty the Footman

Shirin Enayati plays Juliet the Housemaid

Elli Legerski as Rebecca the Washer Woman

Barrett Hutchinson as the Dirty Drunk Gardener

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These characters provide the necessary background texture to make the Talbot estate feel lived-in and ridiculous. Every role contributes to the satirical bite of this unique historical comedy. The short film, Jane Austen’s Period Drama, gained significant acclaim at the 2024 Tribeca Festival and is currently making its way through the international film circuit.

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What do you think about the short cast's big performance in Jane Austen’s Period Drama? Let us know in the comments.

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Soma Mitra

924 articles

Soma is a journalist at Netflix Junkie. With a postgraduate degree in Mass Communication, she brings production experience from documentary films like Chandua: Stories on Fabric. Covering the true crime and docu-drama beat, she turns psychological thrillers into sharp, audience-aware storytelling.

Edited By: Itti Mahajan

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