Austenland

Austenland, directed by Jerusha Hess and released in 2013 is a beautiful blend of romantic comedy and period drama. The movie pays an appreciative, light-hearted homage to the works of the British author, Jane Austen. Starring Keri Russell, JJ Feild, and Jennifer Coolidge in major roles, Austenland takes its viewers on an enchanting, heartwarming journey into a theme resort dedicated to the times and tales of Jane Austen.

The movie is based on the novel "Austenland" by Shannon Hale, with the story revolving around the life of Jane Hayes, essayed by Keri Russell. Jane is a single thirtysomething woman from New York City who is obsessed with the BBC production of "Pride and Prejudice," and more particularly, with the character Mr. Darcy, immortalized by Colin Firth. This obsession includes a secret shrine to Darcy in her apartment that no visitors ever get to see.

Desperate to find the kind of love that prevailed in Austen's novels, Jane decides to splurge her life-savings on a trip to Austenland, a resort in England that provides an immersive, Regency-era experience to its guests. Austenland is a place where every woman can live out her wildest Jane Austen-themed dreams, surrounded by actors embodying characters from Austen's novels, living in an era without any modern conveniences. The unique selling point of this place is that it promises a flirtatious role-play romance, with one of Austen's gallant and charming heroes. But whether the romance leads to phony proposal or a real relationship is dependent on the package purchased by the guest.

Upon arriving at Austenland, Jane learns that she’s booked the basic package and is not entitled to the same privileges as the others staying in the regal mansion. She is relegated to the servants' quarters, but nevertheless dives headlong into the experience. Armed with the pseudonym "Miss Erstwhile", she navigates through a host of the meticulously enacted period set pieces, including croquet games, archery tournaments, horseback rides, regency dances, and candlelit dinners.

Throughout her vacation, Jane finds herself torn between two possible love interests - the brooding, Darcy-esque Mr. Henry Nobley, portrayed by JJ Feild, and a charming servant named Martin, played by Bret McKenzie. We see her deal with her feelings for both men, while also interacting with the other eccentric guests and characters at the resort, including the resort’s pompous owner, Mrs. Wattlesbrook (Jane Seymour) and fellow Austen enthusiast, Miss Elizabeth Charming, played in a delightfully over-the-top manner by Jennifer Coolidge.

Russell brings a winsome charm to Jane that makes her likable and relatable. Her vulnerability and commitment to the character grounds the film and provides it a heart. Feild’s Mr. Nobley is a convincing romantic lead; he perfectly embodies the dashing but somewhat stiff gentility of a classic Austen hero. Coolidge, known for her comic roles, shines as Miss Elizabeth Charming, her overplayed enthusiasm and love for everything Austen is both endearing and hilarious, providing much of the movie's comic relief.

Austenland is amusing, joyful and at times, a surprisingly poignant movie that explores the idea of fantasy versus reality. It is an insightful commentary on the romantic illusions many of us harbour, amplified by the works of authors like Austen. The film fluctuates between humour and tenderness and then back again, often tipping its bonnet at the comedy of manners that characterized Austen's novels.

The settings and the costumes in the film take a significant part in bringing the Austen world to life. The grandeur of the Georgian and Regency-era decor, the picturesque English countryside, and the opulent gowns worn by the characters are meticulous and transportive, adding to the film’s tongue-in-cheek Austen authenticity.

Whether you're an Austen aficionado or a novice to her works, Austenland is a charming film that offers a modern approach to the love tales penned by the classic author. This light-hearted, yet thoughtful rom-com spins a delightful yarn of personal growth, old world charm and the universal longing for true love. Surely a must-watch, especially for romantics at heart.