becoming jane review
I love this movie. So much. I couldn't stop crying long after the credits rolled.
To be completely frank, I did not like the beginning of the movie. Too many times I spot something that would remind me of Pride and Prejudice, and it feels too much like a second-rate copy of the epic story of Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy. And Anne Hathaway playing one of the greatest authors in history does take some getting used to. But eventually, the movie takes off in a completely different direction from Pride and you simply follow, enthralled and seduced by its charms.
If you really must compare, this one is definitely bolder and wilder, in between talk of sex and Lefroy getting beaten up in matches. It might be not be smart as Pride was (it would take a lot to top that), and its humor isn't quite as subtly pleasing, more of in-your-face laughs, but no doubt just as enjoyable. The doomed relationship tears your heart apart in the later part of the movie as the couple faces one obstruction after another, not unlike Jane Austen's characters. You know there is never a happy ending for this one, but well, I, at least, keep hoping for the possible best. Anne Hathaway and James McAvoy have such wonderful chemistry that you can't quite help but root for them, tragic as you know the ending will be.
The best way to enjoy it though (especially you Jane Austen fanatics out there), is to ignore the facts for a while. No one really knew if Jane Austen and Tom Lefroy ever fell in love, so let your imagination run for a while. The film never claims to be a biopic, only serving as a beautiful yet tragic romantic piece to add to the period dramas. Just sink into the film and enjoy it as a good story.
But then again, take my review with a pinch of salt. I'm a sucker for these period pieces. They can do no wrong.
Oh, by the way, anyone has the soundtrack to this? I have a feeling it's not in stores here yet. Or maybe someone could upload some similar instrumental pieces for me? Maybe the Pride and Prejudice soundtrack? I left mine at home. Damn. Just when I'm in the mood.