The Jane Austen Book Club

One character in The Jane Austen Book Club describes the author's novels as chick-lit that most men would enjoy if they gave it a chance; similarly, the film is a "chick flick" guys might well grok if they could be roped in. Sure, there are no CGI or explosions, but it's hard not to become engrossed in the seriocomic relationship tangles.

The Jane Austen Book Club makes the most audacious use ever of the author's work. When a make-out session in a car is abruptly interrupted, a young man grabs his amour's copy of "Persuasion" to cover up his erection.

While the script never reaches the heights of Austen's work, it's still like an Austen novel in the sense that each member of the group is, whether they're aware of it or not, looking for their perfect romantic partner.

You don't need to have read Austen's work to enjoy the film, it's more about the lives of our book club members than the author, but some knowledge will add to your appreciation of the film. And don't be surprised if you find yourself reaching for your favourite Austen classic...

With its multiple protagonists and episodic structure, The Jane Austen Book Club probably lost plenty in the translation to film and, in parts, the story feels awkwardly truncated or too shallow to matter. But Swicord has a playful sense of humor and a good ear for dialogue, and the movie pleasantly accomplishes what it set out to accomplish.

Quite a nice little relationship comedy-drama, but essentially for an audience of what the French charmingly call ‘women of a certain age’. Totally not the Superbad set, then.

Men are not going to be queuing excitedly for The Jane Austen Bookclub but should you be able to trick one into coming he may well find it engaging viewing.

The constant paralleling does feel very contrived, but a decent sprinkling of insights and the sincerity of the acting keeps the story grounded. This film won't endure through the ages, but it can at least offer die hard Austen fans a little guilty pleasure.