Genre: Drama/ Comedy/ Romance
Runtime: 94 minutes
Year: 2016
Starring: Kate Beckinsale, Chloë Sevigny, Stephen Fry, Xavier Samuel, Tom Bennett, Jenn Murray, Lochlann O’Mearáin, Sophie Radermacher, Morfydd Clark, Frank Predergast, Emma Greenwell, Justin Edwards, Kelly Campbell, Conor Lambert, Conor MacNeill, Frank Melia, Jemma Redgrave
Description: Lady Susan Vernon (Kate Beckinsale) takes up temporary residence at her in-laws' estate and, while there, is determined to be a matchmaker for her daughter Frederica -- and herself too, naturally.
Review: Jane Austen is still an inspiration for filmmakers. Especially “Pride & Prejudice” and “Sense & Sensibility” have been adapted several times. “Love & Friendship” is fresh and adapted from the novella “Lady Susan” by Jane Austen. Jane Austen fits director Whit Stillman perfectly. Both have a subtle sense of irony and humor, that sometimes has a double meaning. This results into a hilarious costume drama.
The novella the film is based on, is relatively unknown. The title characters is sharp, even more so then the heroines we know so well from Austen’s books. Lady Susan Vernon is a young widow who is seeking new, rich husbands for her daughter and herself. As a practiced flirt, she manages to drive men around her crazy, when she says it’s not her intention. Kate Beckinsale plays this role sublime, probably her best role so far.
It’s great how Stillman manages to capture Austen’s style, but gives it his own touch with still feeling like an Austen story. The greatest part of the film is the funny enhancement of Sir James Martin’s stupidity. Every scene with this character is just a joy to watch.
“Love & Friendship” is a very good costume drama, with lots of British humor, irony and sarcasm. Love it.
Rating: 4,5/ 5
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