The Jane Austen Book Club: DVD, Blu-ray Movie Review (2008)

Based on Karen Joy Fowler’s 2004 best-seller, this likable if formulaic movie follows five women (Maria Bello, Emily Blunt, Maggie Grace, Kathy Baker and Amy Brenneman) and one sci-fi-loving guy (Hugh Dancy) who come together to read six Austen books.

The idea is that within those books are guides to leading one’s life, with the characters naturally coming to find themselves in Austen’s books.

So, once again, the enduring Austen proves she’s fit for contemporary consumption. As one character in the movie notes, "You can’t read these novels without wondering whether she has a little thing for the naughty boys."

Good point.

Another character claims that "reading Jane is a freakin’minefield."Well, maybe after a bottle of wine and a heated conversation with friends, which is what this movie is all about.

Rated PG-13. Grade: B

Watch the trailer below: