The Jane Austen Book Club (2007)

After Sylvia's (Amy Brenneman) husband (Jimmy Smits) dumps her for another woman, friends- matriarchal Bernadette (Kathy Baker) and dog-breeder Jocelyn (Maria Bello) organize a book club to support her. Also recruited, is Sylvia's college-aged, lesbian daughter Allegra and prim high-school teacher Prudie (Emily Blunt). The natural choice for the ladies is Jane Austen. Six books and only five people leads Jocelyn to invite sci-fi nerd and avid reader Grigg (Hugh Dancy) who joins in hopes of hitting it off with her.

Six distinctive people read and discuss one Austen novel a month. They soon find parallels between their own lives and Austen's heroines. Prudie contemplates an affair with a student. Sylvia's ex keeps popping up. Jocelyn tries to match Grigg and Sylvia unaware of Grigg's intention. Allegra falls in love only to be hurt and mature Bernadette is looking for her next Mr. Right. The six discover Austen's themes timeless in the age of hybrid cars and Blackberries.

The Jane Austen Book Club is a light film of love and relationships. Far from man-bashing, the movie examines the things we do to cope in out search for unconditional love. The ensemble cast provide strong and subtle performances. Emily Blunt really shines here as Prudie. Maria Bello is a close second. Both ladies are provided the most depth in their story lines. Hugh Dancy is adorable. Although mainly comedic relief, as Grigg, Dancy imparts a preciousness you can't help but 'aww' over. Set in dreamy California, the cast really shines.

Writer/director Robin Swicord (Memoirs of a Geisha) affords her characters a real-world complexity that will resonate with women of all ages. Thankfully, Swicord abstains from man-hating, but rather, examines what we all really yearn for: unconditional love. Also gorgeous
Perhaps in the real world, it wouldn't all be happy endings. Thankfully, Swicord steals from Austen and allows all of our heroines a chance at happiness.

The Jane Austen Book Club is successful on two levels: one as a simple chick-flick--corny, yet charming. Additionally, Austen fans will delight in the constant symbolism and quotes from their favorites novels. Embrace your inner romantic and you'll be enchanted.