An Education

I just saw An Education. I have been pretty excited about seeing it ever since I first saw the trailer last year. The film was at the Chicago International Film Festival this past October, but all of the showings were sold out, so I was unable to see it. The film is based on a Memoir by Lynn Barber and is adapted by Nick Hornby. As time has gone by, my expectations have gotten higher and higher. This past month, An Education was nominated for three Academy Awards (Actress in Leading Role, Best Picture, and Best Adapted Screenplay).

I must admit that I was a little disappointed. Part of it may have been how different the film was from what I expected after seeing the trailer. I think that I really just let my expectations get a little too high. The film was great. Everyone was really wonderful. Emma Thompson and Carey Mulligan were both really good, but I think that I was most impressed with Olivia Williams and Alfred Molina. Their characters did not really have to be that believable, but they each really brought something to their roles. I ended up really liking Alfred Molina's character a lot more than I thought. There was something really sweet about him.

The story did not have much going on as far as the story or the screenplay, but I would probably still recommend it. I really enjoyed the costumes and a lot of the music. It's not quite a must-see, but is still worth checking out.

Miss Austen Regrets

I recently watched Miss Austen Regrets. I believe that if first aired in the UK in 2008. I believe that it is currently only available in the United States as part of a set, but can be purchased on its own in the United Kingdom. It focuses on the life of Jane Austen (40s?-death). It was a really interesting film. Unlike Becoming Jane (another Austen biopic), it seemed very realistic. There were parts that were absolutely heart-breaking. This is definitely not the kind of film that I would be able to see over and over again.

This film takes one of the most famous female authors in the world, and turns her into a real person. The writer (Gwyneth Hughes) went further with this film than other films that I have seen. I applaud her for not mixing Austen up with her characters. Jeremy Lovering did a marvelous job directing the film. It was an absolute treat to watch. It had the same wonderfully beautiful look and feel as other period-dramas, but at the same time seemed a little gritty (if that makes sense).

The cast was wonderfully chosen. After seeing it, I could not imagine anyone but Olivia Williams playing Jane. There were so many dimensions to the character (many more than expected). Austen had a grace and wit, but at the same time a sadness and bitterness. Greta Scacchi and Phyllida Law gave the same wonderful performances that I have come to expect. I have seen Hugh Bonneville in many period films, but this is the first time when I have been really blown away by a performance. He did a marvelous job.

As I previously mentioned, this is not necessarily the type of film that I would buy and be able to watch over and over again, but I would definitely recommend seeing it. It is definitely a must see (especially if you are an Austen fan)!