Watch CBS News

Jan Wahl Movie Review: 'Austenland'

Austenland
"Austenland" (credit: Giles Keyte/Sony Pictures Classics)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews "Austenland", the story of a Jane Austen-obsessed woman (Keri Russell), and her trip to the titular resort in order to live in the world of her favorite author, and find her own storybook romance.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

Jan Wahl Movie Review: Austenland (PG-13)


AUSTENLAND (PG-13)

Remember Westworld--where people got to go to a resort to live out their fantasies? This movie is an opportunity for a smart comedy with a similar theme, but for Jane Austen fans.

We meet Keri Russell, a charming actress who doesn't work enough. Here, she plays a Jane Austin devotee who has discovered a resort for all things Austen. Run by a tough but oh-so-feminine Jane Seymour, at Austenland, Keri finds herself with Mr. Darcy and all you'd expect, except none of the wit or rebelliousness of Austen.

Austenland | Official Trailer HD (2013) by Sony Pictures Classics on YouTube

Based on the novel by Shannon Hale, I could almost hear the filmmakers yelling "dumb it down!" Faster than you can swallow your pride and face your prejudice, we get outworn cliches and slapstick gags. Even the comedic Jennifer Coolidge can't save this "Austen Light."

OK for a night of escapism, especially since comedy is in short supply right now.

Two & 1/2 hats.

 


Movies To See Right Now: Lee Daniels' The Butler, Blue Jasmine, Jobs, The Way, Way Back & Fruitvale Station

Home Viewing/DVD: Amour, The Company You Keep & Mud


You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl's movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.