Sometimes it shocks me that, even though I was an English major in college, I somehow missed reading so many classics.
For example, I had no idea Jane Austen wrote a novella called Lady Susan but you can bet I’ll be heading to the library to check it out after seeing Love and Friendship, the delightful new movie based on it. I ran a giveaway for the film last week and was so intrigued by the story, I spent yesterday afternoon at the lovely Angelika Film Center, transported back to the 18th century.
The plot centers around the book’s title character — played to perfection by Kate Beckinsale — who is a not-so-much-grieving widow biding time at her in-laws’ estate until the gossip about her affairs die down.
Scheming Susan, though, is not content to just sit around doing embroidery or playing the harp. Behind that charming smile is a well-hatched plan to find a pair of husbands: one for herself and one for her daughter, Frederica (Morfydd Clark).
I’m not going to tell you any more because I don’t want to spoil it.
I will tell you that the writing — Whit Stillman both wrote and directed the film — is clever and funny with an edge that is even more delicious and unexpected set against the elegant British accents and gorgeous period setting. Through hilarious onscreen notes, Stillman describes each character: Lady Susan is “a most accomplished flirt;” her assistant, Mrs. Cross, is her “impoverished friend, helps pack and unpack.” There’s also “a divinely attractive man” and “a bit of a rattle.”
Chloe Sevigny shines as Alicia Johnson, Lady Susan’s American friend and accomplice. It’s for good reason her “respectable” husband (Stephen Fry) has forbidden the two to spend time together, but Susan pooh-poohs the whole idea, telling Alicia, “What a mistake you made marrying Mr. Johnson. He’s too old to be governable, too young to die.”
Susan also dismisses her daughter’s criticisms, saying, “Having children is our fondest wish but, in doing so, we breed our acutest critics.” Talk about a truth universally acknowledged.
This is a great choice for those missing Downton Abbey, even though it’s much more a comedy of manners than a drama. But it’s got sumptuous costumes, beautiful drawing rooms and a leading Lady who would give the Crawley sisters a run for their money.
I love a good comedy of manners and can’t wait to see this one. I’m unfamiliar with the book, too, but maybe I need to read it, as well!
It’s sounds like a fun film and I definitely need my Downton fix. As the film is a comedy that’s even better.
I’ve always seen myself as Lady Susan LOL:) I’m a big Jane Austen fan but never read this book. Looking forward to seeing the movie so thanks for the review.
Sounds like a Dowton Abbey spoof. I loved Dowton Abbey, so I probably would love this movie too.
This is right up my alley. I look forward to seeing it!
This is definitely on my list to see. If my husband won’t join me, I’ll go with a girlfriend.
Oh my gosh, I’m totally adding this to my watch list. It sounds like a perfect way to get over the loss of Downton Abbey. 😉
I can’t wait to see this! I love Jane Austen and yes terribly miss Downton Abbey. This looks so fun!
Can’t wait to watch this, sounds great. I’m a Jane Austen and Downtown Abbey fan, too!
Oh wow I just watched the trailer it I can’t wait to see. Lady Susan is hysterical! Thanks so much for sharing. It’s like getting Downtown back again!
Awesome review! I’m excited for it to come out! I love Jane Austen novels so this should definitely be a good one!
I love Jane Austen books and even more when they are turned into movies. Love and Friendship sounds funny and right up my alley! Weekend movie list!
I am really looking forward to this one and the Novella (I have no idea how I missed it either.)
Hoping this helps my grief over Downton:)
A comedy of manners… love that phrase. I haven’t heard of this one, but it sounds right up my alley.
Thanks for the movie review. I haven’t even heard of this one yet. It looks like a winner!
I am a HUGE fan of Downton Abbey so right away I am itching to see this movie.
I just love that entire time period (well, I sure do like heat and indoor plumbing) so I know already I am going to love it!
Someone should tell her that finding a husband isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. 😉 OOOh wait, that’s self-projection. 😉 You did a nice job on the review!
The humor in this is what’s totally attracting me to it! I’m so looking forward to seeing it!
I am not familiar with this movie but it sounds really good. Definitely a good story line!
This sounds like a fun girl’s night out movie. I’ve always been a fan of Jane Austen’s books thanks for the review!
Saw the trailer for this and it looked great. Your recommendation means I’m going for sure.