Agate has chosen to remain single. She’s a hero in her 30s and stars in the feature debut of filmmaker Laura Piani, “Jane Austen has ruined my life.” However, Austin isn’t entirely ruined, as she is portrayed by the vibrant Kamille Rutherford.
No one is quite enough to inspire a significant change in her life, so she adheres to her routine. She works at the iconic Paris bookstore Shakespeare and Company and at a bicycle shop, sharing her life with her younger sister and young nephew. Occasionally, she goes out for dinner. For what it’s worth, Agate also embodies French girl chic with her Breton stripes, bold red lips, and effortlessly tousled hair. There should definitely be an Instagram account dedicated to her navy hoodie.
Life isn’t bad; it just feels stagnant. Anything that attempts to pull her from this self-imposed rut becomes special.
Standards are high, but in reality, it’s challenging to get out of her own way. One night, fueled by alcohol, she dreams of writing the first few chapters of a romance. Her best friend, Felix (Pablo Paulie), gives her the nudge she needs and secretly submits her pages to the Jane Austen writer’s residency, where she is accepted and invited for several weeks.
Before boarding the ferry (which is a challenge in itself), Felix, a notorious serial dater and “Panklunsam,” kisses her. This moment complicates their platonic friendship and adds an unexpected twist to the already hesitant writers involved in the con man complex. Upon her arrival, there’s another handsome distraction: Oliver (Charlie Anson), a British literature professor and Austen’s “great great great nephew.” Despite his claims, Agate doesn’t even realize he speaks French until he grumbles about his sister while dealing with ear hair removal.
This is a classic setup—not quite Mr. Darcy, but not too far off either. Shared living quarters on large, picturesque English grounds heighten the tension as they navigate encounters during forest walks, breakfast, and after-dinner readings. And of course, there’s the slightly clichéd mishap when Agate accidentally opens the door to what she thinks is the bathroom—it’s not.
Piani has crafted a rare gem in “Jane Austen Ruined My Life.” The title is whimsically hyperbolic, but resonates truthfully. Yet another modern romance for Austen enthusiasts, it surprisingly justifies hosting a costume ball. This event becomes a wonderfully tangled, romantic occasion, showcasing the love triangle in all its messy glory.
While “Jane Austen Ruined My Life” certainly fits the romantic comedy genre, the real question isn’t merely who she will end up with. Rest assured, the choice has been made, but the journey it takes is both unexpected and satisfying. The film paints a clear portrait of why Agate’s single status isn’t a problem. There’s even a cameo by Frederick Wiseman.
Ultimately, this may be the first film about a woman who truly bets on herself. Her epiphany occurs when she finally sits down to write, rather than relying on a boyfriend, her job, or a transformation journey. While it may not strictly adapt Austen’s work, it certainly captures its essence.
“Jane Austen has ruined my life,” will be released by Sony Pictures Classics in theaters this Friday, with an R rating from the Film Association for “Some Sexual Content, Nudity, Language.” Running time: 94 minutes. Three out of four stars.
Source: apnews.com