The film’s shooting budget was US$16 million, which was the highest budget received by Ang Lee at the time and the largest cost incurred by Austin's novel adaptation of the movie in the 1990s. Because of the great success of " Little Women " launched in 1994, Ang Lee's film has a relatively high budget.
Ang Lee often asks the actors to retake multiple shots in order to obtain the perfect effect. Thompson said that Ang Lee can always remain kind and tolerant when everyone fails to meet the requirements. Thompson already has a wealth of acting experience, so the director encouraged her to learn Tai Chi, "help her relax, so that she can complete her work in a simpler way." Other actors soon joined their meditation. He suggested that Winslet read the poems and then report to him, believing that this would be the best way for her to understand her role. He also let Thompson and Winslet live together to develop a sisterhood between the characters. Many actors have learned etiquette and saddle riding courses
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