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Director Whit Stillman, who has explored various aspects of contemporary life, has shifted to the world of Jane Austen in this adaptation of Austen’s novella “Lady Susan.” He has assembled a colorful cast, given the film a pleasing period look and had it costumed appropriately. The result is an entertaining story basically involved with husband hunting.
Lady Susan Vernon proves to be a fine vehicle for Kate Beckinsale, who rises to the occasion of playing a conniving widow looking for two husbands, not with bigamy in mind. She wants one for herself and would like another for her daughter, Frederica, played by Morfydd Clark. Meanwhile, Susan is cavorting with a married man, Lord Manwaring, portrayed by Lochlann O’Mearain. Of course, an eligible husband should be a man of means.
The witty plot is filled with amusing intrigues and manipulations. The cast, well-attuned to Austen and the times she depicts, includes Chloë Sevigny, Stephen Fry, Jenn Murray, Emma Greenwell, Justin Edwards, Tom Bennett, and Xavier Samuel.
There are moments when some of the actors appear to be enjoying themselves in the various roles more than losing themselves in the characters they are playing. But still, what they are doing turns out to be enjoyable.
Stillman proves that he can provide delight in a past setting that, apart from the era depicted, contains aspirations and emotions still relevant to life today, as is the case with Austen’s writing. An Amazon Studios and Roadside Attractions release. Reviewed May 13, 2016.
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