Introduction"Austenland" is a 2013 romantic comedy movie directed by Jerusha Hess and based upon Shannon Hale's 2007 book of the same name. The movie spoofs the modern fascination with Jane Austen's novels, particularly "Pride and Prejudice". It stars Keri Russell in the leading function, with J.J. Feild, Bret McKenzie, Jennifer Coolidge and Jane Seymour in supporting functions.
PlotThe film revolves around Jane Hayes (Keri Russell), a single thirty-something American lady consumed with Jane Austen's Mr. Darcy character from the novel "Pride and Prejudice". She spends her life savings on a journey to a British resort named Austenland, dealing with Austen-crazed women, intending to experience the romance and magnificence of the Regency age.
The resort is run by Mrs. Wattlesbrook (Jane Seymour), who appoints each visitor an imaginary "character" for their stay. Jane is offered a lower function as an orphan of no great fortune, in contrast to the more desirable characters of other wealthier guests.
Conflict and ResolutionJane is paired with two possible love interests at the resort - Henry Nobley (J.J. Field), an actor playing Mr. Darcy's character, and Martin (Bret McKenzie), a steady hand. While Jane starts to establish feelings for them, she has to determine if their love are real or simply part of the role-play.
As the retreat progresses, Jane becomes disillusioned with the artificiality of Austenland however later recognizes that her love for Austen's story goes beyond the reenactment. In the movie's climax, Jane leaves Austenland, believing the love she experienced was all a charade, only to be pursued by Henry, who confesses his real sensations for her, hence providing her a real Austen-like romance.
Reception"Austenland" mainly gotten blended evaluations from critics. While the efficiencies, specifically Keri Russell's portrayal of Jane, were normally applauded, the total plot was slammed as predictable and without depth. However, the film's easy going take on romantic tropes, combined with its satirical take on Austen's novels' modern fandom, was favorably gotten by audiences.
Conclusion"Austenland" provides an amusing evaluation of Austen fixation while crafting an appealing love story. It skillfully uses humor to talk about the often-romanticized perceptions of Jane Austen's world, drawing out comic and poignant moments from the clash between modern expectations and historic reality. The humor derives from the absurdities of the function play and the contradictions in between the characters' real and fictitious identities. While it may not strictly accommodate the taste of Austen purists, "Austenland" entertains viewers with its mix of humor, romance and commentary on popular culture's interpretation of traditional literature.
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