Entertainment, Movies - Marine Corps Times

Jane addiction

If one were to fuse the literary sensibility of Jane Austen with the fanciful imaginative license of “Shakespeare in Love,” what would emerge would likely be the charming tale, “Becoming Jane.”

Though it’s grounded in more actual history than the very fictional “Shakespeare in Love,” “Becoming Jane” centers on an imagined romance between the novelist (Anne Hathaway) at 20, and an intriguing young Irishman named Tom LeFroy (James McElroy).

The tale is based on suppositions of Austen historians and authors who have gone through her remaining letters. Still, some Austenites question the existence of a passionate love affair involving the eloquent author who published only six novels during her short life. She never married.

But, as far as escapist period films go, this one offers an intriguing and delightful premise, superbly written and well-acted.

Hathaway is terrific as Austen. Not only does she nail the British accent convincingly, but her subtle mannerisms and expressions speak volumes. She delivers the sparkling dialogue, by screenwriter Kevin Hood, with just the right nuance and verve.

McAvoy, who distinguished himself in “The Last King of Scotland” and was even better in the coming of age story “Starter for 10,” is perfectly dashing. Their substantial chemistry makes this an engaging story, even if it’s not a strict biopic.

Purists might bristle, or they could just sit back and enjoy the lilting tale, with its delicacy of feeling and expression. And the rest of us can enjoy an escape into a far more elegant and well-spoken world than the one we currently inhabit.

The landscape, with Ireland subbing in for the English countryside, is lovely as is the production design and costumes. The score is particularly evocative. Turns of phrases sound like they could have been written by Austen, so much did the screenwriter research his source and pay homage to her literary work. Austen fans will enjoy occasional phrases and comments that are meant to evoke one of her novels. Director Julian Jarrold wisely avoids any possible anachronistic moments or modern attitude. Consequently, the sum of the parts is witty, spry and poignant.

Supporting performances by Julie Walters and James Cromwell as Austen’s parents are particularly noteworthy and Maggie Smith as a wealthy patroness (who brings to mind Pride and Prejudice’s Lady Catherine) is a highlight.

Whether Jane Austen would have passionately kissed LeFroy or agreed to elope with him is certainly a debatable point. But the way in which those moments are handled, with their circumscribed sensuality, is quite moving.

The story is bittersweet and the final scene, showing a nearly middle-aged Austen who has come to terms with her place in life is handled with consummate taste.

Becoming Jane clearly embraces the spirit of the beloved novelist. Fans as well as those unfamiliar with her work will enjoy the romantic tale, as well as the film’s overall ability to capture and distill some of Austen’s playful sense of humor and sharp intellect.

3.5 stars. Rated PG for brief nudity and mild language. Opens Aug. 10.

Claudia Puig is the chief film critic for USA Today.