Austenland Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A woman who’s *really* into Colin Firth’s Mr. Darcy goes to a Jane Austen-themed resort and suddenly has to choose between a stable boy and a guy who looks like he hasn’t smiled since 1812, because apparently finding love in the 21st century is just *too* easy.

🍿 Austenland: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to Jane’s Obsession

Jane Hayes, a thirty-something living in a modern world, harbors a secret obsession with Jane Austen’s ‘Pride and Prejudice,’ specifically the BBC adaptation starring Colin Firth. This infatuation has crippled her romantic prospects, as no real man can measure up to her idealized version of Mr. Darcy. Her apartment is a shrine to Austen, complete with a life-size cutout of Firth as Darcy.

The Austenland Adventure

Desperate to break free from her romantic stagnation, Jane impulsively decides to spend her life savings on a trip to Austenland, an English resort designed to immerse guests in a Regency-era experience. Austenland promises to fulfill the fantasies of Austen-crazed women, offering a chance to live out their romantic dreams. Upon arrival, Jane quickly realizes that the experience may not be as perfect as she imagined, especially since she purchased the ‘copper package,’ the most basic option.

Navigating Regency Role-Play

At Austenland, Jane meets fellow guests, including the flamboyant Miss Elizabeth Charming, and interacts with actors playing various roles within the Regency setting. As Jane tries to embrace the experience, the lines between fantasy and reality become blurred. She finds herself torn between two potential suitors: Martin, a charming stablehand, and Mr. Henry Nobley, the brooding Mr. Darcy figure, both of whom are part of the resort’s staff.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Jane Hayes (Keri Russell): A woman obsessed with Pride and Prejudice who seeks her perfect gentleman at a Jane Austen theme park.
• Mr. Henry Nobley (JJ Feild): The aloof and mysterious actor portraying Mr. Darcy at Austenland, who captivates Jane.
• Miss Elizabeth Charming (Jennifer Coolidge): A wealthy and comedic American tourist at Austenland who befriends Jane.
• Martin (Bret McKenzie): The charming stablehand at Austenland who complicates Jane’s romantic pursuits.
• Mrs. Wattlesbrook (Jane Seymour): The strict and somewhat villainous owner of Austenland who runs the Regency experience.
• Colonel Andrews (James Callis): A flamboyant and eager participant at Austenland.
• Lady Amelia Heartwright (Georgia King): Another wealthy tourist with a high-end package.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Mr. Henry Nobley: “Any father would be delighted to have a ninja as a daughter.” – Said to Jane during a playful exchange, showcasing his dry wit and subtle interest in her.
• Miss Elizabeth Charming: “(In an affected accent) I’m very fond of reading but my attention span is a nanosecond.” – Typical of her character, mocking the tropes expected of her

💰Box Office

• Budget: £4,900,000
• Domestic Gross: $2,159,041
• Worldwide Gross: $2,313,509

💥 Austenland Reviews

Personal Review

Okay, so I went into this expecting a fluffy rom-com, and I got… well, a fluffy rom-com! But with a quirky twist! I loved Keri Russell as Jane, she totally nailed the Austen-obsessed fangirl. Jennifer Coolidge? Hilarious as always. The scene where they try to dance in Regency attire? I nearly choked on my popcorn. It’s not high art, but it’s a fun escape and a love letter to Austen fans like me! Totally recommend for a girls’ night in.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Jane Austen adaptations”
  • “Viewers who enjoy romantic comedies with quirky humor”
  • “People interested in films that explore the line between fantasy and reality”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Some suggestive humor”
  • “Mild language”
  • “Themes of romantic obsession”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “Austenland is a charming but uneven confection. While the premise is ripe for satire, the film struggles to find a consistent tone. Keri Russell is endearing as Jane, but Jennifer Coolidge’s over-the-top performance can be grating. Ultimately, the film is a lighthearted diversion for Jane Austen fans.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “Jerusha Hess’s direction doesn’t quite capture the wit of the source material. While Austenland offers some amusing moments, it lacks the sharp social commentary that makes Austen’s novels so enduring. A pleasant enough watch, but far from a must-see.
• IndieWire: “Austenland has a great premise, but it doesn’t fully deliver. Keri Russell is charming and likeable, but is not enough to save this movie. While Jennifer Coolidge provides some laughs, the film feels like a missed opportunity to truly satirize Austen obsession.

Audience Reactions

Jennifer Coolidge steals the show with her hilarious portrayal of Miss Charming.: The movie is a fun, lighthearted escape for Austen fans.

Keri Russell is perfect as Jane Hayes, making her relatable and endearing.: The movie is a delightful and entertaining romantic comedy.

Overall Consensus: Austenland is a polarizing film. While some viewers find it a charming and funny tribute to Jane Austen, others find it shallow and predictable. Jennifer Coolidge’s performance is a particular point of contention, with some praising her comedic talents and others finding her grating. Ultimately, the film’s success depends on the viewer’s tolerance for over-the-top humor and their affection for the world of Jane Austen.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Many of Jennifer Coolidge’s lines were improvised, as she found it difficult to memorize the script.”
• “The film features several actors who have previously appeared in Jane Austen adaptations, creating a fun meta-reference for fans.”
• “The soundtrack includes modern pop songs interspersed with classical pieces, reflecting the blend of fantasy and reality in the film.”

🖥️ How to Watch Austenland?

Austenland is available for streaming on platforms such as Prime Video and Apple TV, where you can rent or purchase the movie. Check your local listings for availability on other streaming services. DVD and Blu-ray copies are also available for purchase at most major retailers and online marketplaces like Amazon and Walmart. Consider checking your local library for rental options.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Austenland, you might like these similar films:

• Lost in Austen (2008): Features a modern woman transported into the world of Pride and Prejudice, exploring similar themes of fantasy versus reality.
• Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001): Also inspired by Pride and Prejudice, with a modern woman searching for love and grappling with societal expectations.
• Enchanted (2007): Deals with the clash of fantasy and reality as a fairytale princess finds herself in modern-day New York City.
• Pride & Prejudice (2005): The source material and inspiration for Austenland, showcasing the classic love story and societal dynamics.

🛒 Austenland Related Products

• Pride & Prejudice (1995) – BBC Miniseries [Blu-ray]: The definitive adaptation that started it all for Jane, and maybe you. Experience Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy in stunning high definition.
• Jane Austen: The Complete Novels Collection: A beautiful boxed set of all six of Jane Austen’s completed novels. Perfect for immersing yourself in the world of Austen before your trip to Austenland.
• Regency Era Dress – Cosplay Costume: Dress up like Jane Austen. Get ready to feel the part as you immerse in the world of romance novels. Be the protagonist of you life in style!
• Pride and Prejudice Board Game: A Game of Courtship and Marriage: A cooperative game where players take on the roles of the Bennet sisters, navigating balls and social events to find suitable matches. Cleverly incorporates themes from the novel.

🎧 Soundtrack

Austenland features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “L.O.V.E.D.A.R.C.Y” – performed by Emmy the Great
• “Hot in Herre” – performed by Nelly

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Austenland Deleted Scene “Mirror” with Keri Russell and JJ Feild

Ever wondered what scenes didn’t make it into Austenland? This deleted scene between Keri Russell and JJ Feild is so sweet and gives you a little more Mr. Nobley – totally worth the watch!

Interview: Jerusha Hess and J.J. Feild Talk ‘Austenland’

Want to know the inside scoop on how Austenland was made? Jerusha Hess and J.J. Feild spill the tea in this interview! It’s fascinating to hear their perspectives.

Austenland – “Philistines!” [Humor]

Need a laugh? This hilarious Austenland fanvid perfectly captures some of the movie’s most memorable moments. It’s a fun way to relive the Austenland magic!

✨ Rate