(The) Jane Austen Collection, Volume 1

Advantages: good film and choice of characters
Disadvantages: n/a

...It's safe to say that I'm far more interested in Jane Austens life than her written works which is possibly why I've become quite attatched to this film. It was shown on the telly the other day and despite the fact that I do have the DVD I had already circled it in the Evening Post TV listings. Just in case anybody in our house had any queries as to what we would be watching that night. The film is about a young Jane Austen, the youngest daughter of her family she is expected to marry a wealthy gentleman who has offered his hand. The money she'd inherit could easily sweep away the chance of looming poverty which is hanging around like a bad smell. The problem as always is the obvious thing. She doesn't love him and what makes things more complicated is when a headstrong lawyer turns up. Sent deep into the countryside by his uncle... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful

Advantages: It's a reasonable chick flick.
Disadvantages: It's very predictable.

...the characters are introduced, jangling strings and harpsichord for Sylvia and Daniel's break-up and a complex arrangement of glockenspiel and synthesized flutes with playful woodwinds, strings and accordion for Grigg and Jocelyn's first meeting. The composer is guilty of trying to do too much with jangly guitar motifs all over the place and separate themes for every minor incident. It's too strong a contrast with the middle-of-the-road soundtrack choices like Paolo Nutini's "New Shoes", which opens the film, Snow Patrol's "You're All That I Have" for a parachute jump and bits and bobs of girly indie rock and Ella Fitzgerald. "The Jane Austen Book Club" will appeal to readers of chick lit, who like to know where a story's going and that there will be a happy ending for all concerned. It's safe and nice and nothing too disturbing occurs, but... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful

Advantages: Enjoyable read, you learn more about the characters and the Austen novels
Disadvantages: You need to know a little about Austen to enjoy this book

...I read about this book in a magazine last year just before my birthday so suggested it as a present which my sister bought. It took me a while to get round to reading it but now I finished it I can write this review. The book is paperback and is called "The Jane Austen Book Club" and is by Karen Joy Fowler who is an American author she has written a few other books none of which I have heard of but include "Sarah Canary", "Sister Noon", "The Sweetheart Season", and "Black Glass". The Cover = I always judge a book by its cover and the front of this one is quite interesting. The title is in embossed gold writing and above this is six chairs arranged in a semi-circle. Each of these chairs is very different there is a director's chair, a regal throne-like chair, a comfy arm-chair, a dining chair, wicker chair... Read review

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