Laura Piani’s Jane Austen Wrecked My Life reminded me of why I am a huge English literature nerd (my undergraduate major) and my long-lost love of classic literature. It originated after reading rave reviews for 1996’s Emma, and I wanted to compare its plot and themes to those of Clueless, which was released the year before. Comparing the two made me want to read books to understand their thematic elements and their historical context. I don’t get to watch as many movies like this, and I particularly don’t read as much as I used to. I love movies with literary prose and witty banter among characters, and Jane Austen’s Wrecked My Life was just what I was looking for, filling that niche. A pleasant Frederick Wiseman cameo is a nice touch to have in your movie, too.
Aaron’s Take: SBIFF 2025 Review: ‘Jane Austen Wrecked My Life’ Doesn’t Take Much Persuasion To Enjoy
Jane Austen Wrecked My Life feels like a vintage throwback, thanks to Peter Von Poehl’s playful classical musical score, which is delightful, and to Pierre Mazoyer’s shot, in my opinion, which evokes a different era, reminiscent of a 90s Miramax film. Although touching on romance and laughs, it isn’t a traditional rom-com, and fans looking for a fresh take on the genre, or those less familiar with Jane Austen, might be disappointed. The setting of a Paris-based bookseller who attends a literary residency in England, the movie reflects the art of writing books as much as it does falling in love. The best part of the movie, which will stick with me long after I’ve watched it, was a beautiful monologue about how good literature lives inside us and how being an author should be more than just theory; a writer should tell a compelling story. It is one of my favorite moments in any movie so far this year.
Likewise, Jane Austen Wrecked My Life tells a delightful story. Camille Rutherford’s performance balances complex emotions in an unfamiliar setting as she explores her surroundings and discovers herself among other writers at the estate. (“Don’t water the guests.” was the funny moment after one pretentious character ended up wet mid-argument.) The clever setup sustains throughout the whole movie, especially with the potential love interest of Oliver (played by Charlie Anson), who is “Jane Austen’s great-great-great-great-nephew,” resembling Hugh Grant. The big lesson Agathe learns is that she thought she “had to experience interesting things to be able to write,” and now she knows that’s all “bullshit.” This trip gave her a lot to work with. Jane Austen fans and those seeking sophisticated comedy amidst a sea of franchises will have a lot to admire while watching Jane Austen Wrecked My Life.
Jane Austen Wrecked My Life is now playing in theaters nationwide.
