Jane Austen Wrecked My Life delivers a charming and witty exploration of how romantic literature sets unrealistic expectations for real-life relationships. Directed by Laura Piani, this delightful film balances the fantasy of classic love stories with the reality of modern relationships, making it a refreshing addition to the rom-com genre.
The story follows Agathe (Camille Rutherford), a disillusioned Frenchwoman in her 30s who works at Shakespeare and Company, a bookstore near Paris’ Notre Dame. Struggling with her idealistic notions of love, Agathe spends most of her time writing—until an unexpected opportunity leads her to visit Jane Austen’s home in Chawton, England. There, she meets Oliver (Charlie Anson), a distant relative of Austen, and sparks fly despite their initial bickering.
The film expertly blends humor with romance, with Piani presenting a playful and modern take on courtship. Agathe’s awkwardness and vulnerability make her an unconventional lead, and Rutherford’s performance shines as she brings the character’s intellectual charm and physical comedy to life. Agathe’s love triangle with the charming but aloof Oliver and her longtime friend Félix (Pablo Pauly) adds layers of complexity to the film’s exploration of love and self-discovery.
With its European flair and a score that evokes romantic nostalgia, Jane Austen Wrecked My Life offers a compelling mix of heart and humor. Unlike typical rom-coms, it doesn’t promise an idealized happily-ever-after. Instead, it focuses on Agathe’s journey toward self-acceptance and a career in writing. The film concludes with a poignant and uplifting epilogue that provides a satisfying, realistic ending.
Piani’s film captures the essence of Austen’s influence on romantic narratives, while also challenging the unrealistic expectations these stories often set. It’s a modern rom-com that feels both timeless and grounded in reality.
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