Review of Love & Friendship (2016) by Junelkean — 20 Jan 2018

Whit Stillman would seem to be the biggest blessing for Jane Austen lovers. He's got "Metropolitan" and "Barcelona," two films featuring sophisticated humor and romantic drama. While Austen has "Sense and Sensibility" and "Emma", two novels relying on high-spirited burlesque and heroine harmony. Her posthumously-published novel "Lady Susan," requires everything from Stillman's checklist (but not including sex). And fortunately, he exactly knows what to do with this sort of material.

Kate Beckinsale is perfectly casted as she truly embodies the arch-wickedness of the infamous Lady Susan Vernon, a glamorous yet notorious social climber whose scheme is to find the suitable mate for her daughter. The movie is also full of sophisticated afficionados, splendidly acted by a talented supporting ensemble. However, these side characters seem to be hollow on the inside and poorly flesh-out.

The perils of romance and irony of comedy, you may ask? Well, "Love & Friendship" offers both of that with an equal amount. It has humor, heart, wit and sense of style. Though the laughs go back-and-forth and certain characters become too idiotic, it never loses its momentum and steam to provide a social satire of the late 18th century.

VERDICT: Love & Friendship is a lovely and friendly reminder that chick flicks come in all forms and settings. And thankfully, it works with a desirable amount of heart, humor and wit.