Austenland is a quirky and fun film; a delightful romantic comedy and a modern twist on the timeless tales of Jane Austen’s romance novels. The imaginative story focuses on a woman named Jane, played by Keri Russell (TV’s “Felicity” and The Americans) who is obsessed with the Regency era and the famed author’s fiction. Determined to be the heroine of her own story, Jane spends her life savings on a trip to Austenland, an eccentric resort where guests experience complete immersion in the Regency era. Armed with her bonnet, corset and needlepoint, Jane strives to avoid spinsterhood … but has a difficult time determining where fantasy ends and real life—and maybe even love—begins.
Jennifer Coolidge is hilarious and adds some brashness while Keri Russell plays the introverted, Austen-obsessed thirty-something women who still believes in old fashioned love and romance. I would have liked a little bit more of the background of her love life, it is referenced to but you feel like you are missing something. Although it is obvious that she was hurt badly.
I love the progression of Russell’s character, Jane. She slowly becomes more kick ass, in a way this is a coming-of-age comedy, or coming-of-self comedy. The regency era set and Austenland itself is amazing. The supporting cast are great, bringing excellent comedy timing and some OTT moments. The script is very good; different and funny. Jane Seymour is also great as the stuck-up owner of Austenland.
Will Jane find true love? Will she regret spending her life savings on going to Austenland? Watch the film and find out. This is a good, funny comedy.
