This week Sammi and Beau stray slightly away from their formula to discuss 2013’s ‘Austenland,’ in which Jane Seymour embraces her inner Lady Catherine and JJ Field makes us all swoon. Make no mistake, this is a very silly movie that nevertheless is a very clever poke at fan culture (particularly to all the Austen “purists” out there)

 

Austenland stars Kerri Russell, JJ Field, Bret McKenzie, Jane Seymour and Jennifer Coolidge. Directed by Jerusha Hess

The Good:

Keri Russell had marvelous chemistry and rapport with everyone, but with Field in particular. The immediate friendship between her and Jennifer Coolidge’s character was a delight to watch, and her empowering realization halfway through the movie made us stand up and cheer. Bret McKenzie was charming as all-get-out and James Callis, Georgia King, and Ricky Whittle took turns making us laugh. A lot. Eagle-eyed viewers could make a drinking game out of spotting the “set animals” and “Modest” statuary in the movie.

The Bad:

A lot of the dialogue was clunky and not all of it worked. I still suspect that Jennifer Coolidge wasn’t given a script, only told to “just be yourself.”

The Ugly:

Keri Russell’s clothes until about halfway through the movie. Wowsers.

Verdict:

Smart, charming, funny. A definite rewatch.

 

Podcast Music by Nicolai Heidlas

Podcast art by Josh Hollis