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Austenland ~ My Valentine's Day Movie

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! I was trying to decide what movie to highlight for today when I noticed 'Austenland' in the new release section on iTunes. I figured that there really wasn't a better day to give it a whirl then today and I've just finished watching it now! You may recall that I shared the trailer with you some time ago. Let's talk about the movie shall we?

'Austenland' was an enjoyable watch! I feel like I must warn up front that it was a touch more crude than I would have liked. Honestly, I don't ever like crudeness in movies. It was unnecessary and childish but thankfully easily forgotten. In the movies favor, I think that the good was enough to outweigh the bad. Moving on!

The story is rather simple. Jane is a thirty something American woman who is dangerously obsessed with all things Austen. Specifically, Mr. Darcy. She decides to spend her life savings to go to a themed, role-play based vacation in England where every guest is meant to feel like the heroine of her own Austen novel. All the details of the time are present though some are over romanticised or fake upon closer inspection. For example, the chickens in the coup are fake and all the men are actors. Jane begins by having fun but soon tires of the facade. Naturally there are several love interests while plenty of chaos and chemistry ensues. Fun fun!

This movie was surprisingly deep. Although on the surface it's simply yet another flowery retelling of Austen's famed 'Pride and Prejudice' underneath it explores the dangers of fantasy and the value of reality. The overall tone of the movie seems to state that it's not the time period that draws thousands of women to the stories but the idea of honest, virtuous, and truly good men. Something that is severely lacking in this current age. I'm not sure if I'm explaining this well but the point is this: 'Austenland' is a great deal more thoughtful than your average romantic fluff piece. Although it is, in fact, a fluff piece.


I laughed out loud at moments and was invested in the primary character's story. A few of the side characters ranged from unnecessary to repulsive but it wasn't scarring. There was some nice scenery and clever wit. 'Austenland' is a medium. Not amazing and not trash-worthy. It fit the bill for today!

Overall, it's a positive experience! Not my highest recommendation, but nice. If you are hardy enough to to take a little less-than-dignified humor give it a whirl! It's fun and clever!
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