Love & Friendship is based off of Jane Austen’s novella Lady Susan, and is directed by Whit Stillman and stars Kate Beckinsale, Chloe Sevigny, Morfydd Clark, Xavier Samuel, and Tom Bennett. The story is focused on Lady Susan Vernon (Beckinsale), who has come to her in-laws estate to find suitable husbands for herself and her daughter, Frederica (Clark).
The first thing that struck me about this film was how humorous it is. Yes, there is flowery dialogue and the aristocratic lifestyle is portrayed, but there are funny asides that had me laughing. Each character receives their own description, and letters are frequently read out loud, providing extra humor.
The costume design is incredible, and the editing is seamless and gorgeous. This is a stunning film, and feels like an authentic experience.
This is Kate Beckinsale’s best acting performance yet, in my opinion. She’s funny, caustic,charming, and witty as Lady Susan, and she captivates attention. You find yourself becoming attached to her character, even when she’s a little on the mischievous side. The supporting actors are also fantastic, and imbue their characters with personality and charm.
Some viewers will probably find Love & Friendship to be dull, but I loved it. A gorgeous film with fantastic performances, effortless editing, and an incredible authenticity with a splash of humor made for a delicious, unexpected treat.
Verdict: 4/5
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