Becoming Jane

UK Release: 9th March 2007

Watched on DVD: Wednesday 3rd October 2012

Rating: PG

Genre: Biography, Drama, Romance

Runtime: 2hrs

Tagline: "A woman especially if she has the misfortune of knowing anything, should conceal it as well as she can." -Jane Austen

IMDb Plot Synopsis: The year is 1795 and young Jane Austen is a feisty 20-year-old and emerging writer who already sees a world beyond class and commerce, beyond pride and prejudice, and dreams of doing what was then nearly unthinkable - marrying for love. Naturally, her parents are searching for a wealthy, well-appointed husband to assure their daughter's future social standing. They are eyeing Mr. Wisley, nephew to the very formidable, not to mention very rich, local aristocrat Lady Gresham, as a prospective match. But when Jane meets the roguish and decidedly non-aristocratic Tom Lefroy, sparks soon fly along with the sharp repartee. His intellect and arrogance raise her ire - then knock her head over heels. Now, the couple, whose flirtation flies in the face of the sense and sensibility of the age, is faced with a terrible dilemma. If they attempt to marry, they will risk everything that matters - family, friends and fortune.

My Review: Becoming Jane is a spirited little movie with all the gusto you would hope a film about the life of Jane Austen would pertain. Before seeing this movie many years ago I had little knowledge of the tragic love story her life contained. And it really is all that you would expect from a Jane Austen novel: the romance, the heartbreak. And while many (and admittedly I) did not think Anne Hathaway wasn’t right for the role - probably because she was American - she just about captures the Jane we know and love. Sure, there could have been more depth but it was an interesting take on this iconic literary figure. But James McAvoy I have no doubts on. He is perfect as the dashing Tom Lefroy and while the chemistry could of been better the story between them is beautifully and emotionally played. 

So if, like me, you’re looking for a period drama with a difference then this could be the one for you.

Score: 7.5/10