Review of Love & Friendship (2016) by Blake P — 02 Nov 2016

The dialogue is quickly paced, nuanced and full of innuendo. Lady Susan, the main character, is manipulative, and nothing she says can be taken at face value. The way Lady Susan can psychologically control those around her is believable.

This is a story about a highborn woman whose wealth was tied entirely to her husband. Now widowed, she is forced to navigate Society entirely with her still existing beauty, charm and intelligence in order to regain her wealth and ensure the future of her daughter, all while burdened with a reputation.

This story could have gone either way as drama or comedy. As it is, it is funny, ironic and interesting to see how the main character gets herself out of difficult situations. She is selfish and it's gratifying to see Lady Susan get the rich but idiotic husband as well as the dashingly handsome man in the end.

Critics love this movie and the audience is split because this is a well-crafted movie based on dialogue and mannerisms. People who don't understand when they are being insulting or other people's veiled insults, will not appreciate or enjoy this movie. Only the language is fast paced and the characters, aside from Lady Manwaring, are stoic, so people who can only enjoy physical or emotional action, will not enjoy this movie.

It is well acted, the costumes and locations are gorgeous, and the situations and motivations are believable.