Jane Austen Wrecked My Life
Jane Austen Wrecked My Life isn't what you might expect. It's more of a throwback art house character-driven story than trashy Hollywood romcom. And, despite the title, Jane Austen's writing is celebrated throughout. The film introduces us to Agathe Robinson (Camille Rutherford), a lonely middle-aged bookseller obsessed with Austen who works in a local shop with her best friend (Pablo Pauly). Without her knowledge, Félix submits her writing in a contest winning a two-week writers retreat at the Jane Austen Residency. However, the road to the retreat is fraught with anxiety, kissing Félix on a whim, a broken-down car, and insulting Austen's descendant Oliver (Charlie Anson) who Agathe immediately dislikes.
The film, like its protagonist, is a bit aimless with Agathe struggling to fit in at the retreat or write a single word of her story, although she does find some peace in the surroundings and eventually cultivates friendships with the other writers and Oliver's parents.
The more romcom elements hit into high gear during the final act where Agathe's growing feelings for Oliver, and the sudden appearance of Félix, coincide with an Austen ball which will act as the catalyst Agathe needed to begin put her thoughts and feelings in perspective as she finds what her life and writing has been lacking.
The film from writer/director Laura Piani isn't surprising in each choices. You'll likely be able to guess the ending fairly quickly which follows established patterns of the genre while also celebrating Austen in style. The road to get to that happy romantic ending is at least as much an exploration of life, overcoming personal struggle, finding inspiration, and redefining one's life, as Agathe search for love.
Watch the trailer- Title: Jane Austen Wrecked My Life
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