Sunday 29 August 2010

JANE AUSTEN IN MANHATTAN (1980) - A REVIEW


I so wanted to watch  this film and  now my disappointment is undescribable. On one hand, I’m glad I saw it because I had heard about it and it was one of the few Austen-based movies I had never seen.  But I even added it to my DVD collection and that is …too much,  I think: definitely not worth re-watching.  
In this Merchant Ivory ‘s   absurdist “romance” Jane  Austen in Manhattan (1980, U.S., 111 minutes),  past meets present and flamboyant egos collide as two modern-day theatre companies compete to stage a literary gem:  a lost play by one of Britain’s best loved authors. This film tries to blend the artifice of Jane Austen’s 18th century charming creation, tracing the seduction of an innocent  girl by a devious rake, with the thrusting , ambitions  and sexual  mores of 1970s New York. The result is one of the quirkiest and most bizarre movies I’ve ever seen.

The two theatre companies , anxious for the kudos of giving the play its world premiere, must vie with each other for the theatrical rights, which are owned by an artistic foundation. One is led by the traditionalist  Lilianna Zorska (Anne Baxter), the other by her former protégé and lover , charismatic Pierre (Robert Powell) who runs an avante-guarde off-Broadway troupe. Complicating this situation is Ariadne (Sean Young) a beautiful young actress Pierre is determined to seduce away from her husband, Victor (Kurt Johnson) . Modern day events begin to mirror the themes of seduction and salvation in Austen’s play as Lilianna strives to thwart Pierre and save Ariadne from his clutches.
The inspiration behind Jane Austen in Manhattan lies in an actual event: the sale at Sotheby’s  in London of the manuscript of a piece of Jane Austen's  juvenilia, a play based on Samuel Richardson’s SIR CHARLES GRANDISON. The manuscript was passed to Merchant Ivory Production. Although the company considered the play too slight to warrant a production of its own, it was deemed  ideal material as a “play within the play”.
They missed a good occasion, I think. The idea of the play within the play was not bad at all. But I would have set the story in Jane Austen’s house with her and her family home-staging this short play. Not that original but a good chance for a good costume film. James Ivory has a wonderful period film among his credits, “A Room with a View” , based on E.M. Forster 's novel. I love that adaptation. So maybe that was what I was expecting from him as a director and, not finding a bit of that poetry an beautiful photography,  I felt sort of betrayed. 

 This is my third task completed for the Everything Austen Challenge II 

61 comments:

Adriana Sales Zardini said...

Maria, I always wanted to see this movie. Unfortunately, I couldn't find it here in Brazil. Can you allow me to translate your post and publish it at JASBRA's blog? Thanks,

Adriana

Audra said...

I've never heard of this one, but too bad it was so disappointing!!

El Sitio de Jane said...

I remember it very badly, I didn't like it. It was boring and with so much wasted potential. I mean, you can try to make a play within a play, but in a more imaginative manner. Just take 'Looking for Richard' as example.
My partial thoughts (I will link the complete ones when I update our site, if I ever do it!) here:
http://janeausten.mforos.com/1424228/7684505-jane-austen-en-manhattan/#76650194

Regards (SalonJaneAusten)

Meredith said...

Sounds disappointing! I've never come across this one and don't think I will go out of my way to find it! Thank you for your honest review!

Alexa Adams said...

Too bad! I log Room with a View too. It's one of my favorites. If I can get it through Netflix, I definitely watch just for the sake of it, but I wont saddle myself with a copy. Thanks for the review!

Nadal said...

I should say only that its awesome! The blog is informational and always produce amazing things Negan Jacket

New American Store said...

Thank you for this great contribution, I find it very interesting and well thought out and put together. I hope to read your work in the future.
Sex Education Jacket

kaneda jacket said...

I am very happy to read this. This is the kind of manual that needs to be given and not the random misinformation that’s at the other blogs. Appreciate your sharing this best posting. The effort you made to share the knowledge. This is really a great stuff for sharing. Keep it up . Thanks for sharing.

Cyrus Jenix said...

No doubt, your article is very knowledgeable. Post more articles
deku jacket
mens jacket

Anonymous said...

Comment Without a doubt, Jane Austen writes the most amazing literature. Her words are so impeccable and each book is an art of its own. I recently just read Jane Austen in Manhattan and it was such a pure and honest novel. And, since I have taken the help from nursing dissertation editing services UK based so I have much time in my hand to read more of her words, so I am thinking to read Pride and Prejudice this weekend! Thank you for sharing this.

Ethan Henry said...

I am extremely impressed with your writing skills Luke Grimes Yellowstone Vest as well as with the layout on your blog.

Real Usajacket said...

Great post. Articles that have meaningful and insightful comments are more enjoyable, at least to me. It’s interesting to read what other people thought and how it relates to them or their clients, as their perspective could possibly help you in the future. James Bond Suit

EnglishJackets said...

Hy I'm Designer For Customize Leather Jackets. Please Visit Our Website. The 100 Bellamy Blake Faux Leather Jacket

Dollar Jackets said...

This is a mens & womens leather jacket made to provide men & women with trendy and iconic different styles to their fashion options. The jacket has a front zipper closure and collar. Cruella de Vil Emma Stone Jacket

Anonymous said...

Thanks for this nice and lovely content Africa News Publisher

Unknown said...

HARDCORE CYCLES was started in the Greater Philadelphia area by a group of tight friends with a passion for V-Twin performance aftermarket parts.Visit our Website Thanks
Klock Werks iOsphere Backing Plate Mount Kit

MichelAnthony said...

I am glad you take pride in what you write. This makes you stand way out from many other writers that push poorly written content. Thanks for taking the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love learning more on this topic Deke Shaw Agents Of Shield Jacket If possible, as you gain expertise, would you mind updating your blog with extra information? It is extremely helpful for me. thanks for wonderful info. If you want to know about the site Juice Wrld 999 Life Jacket click here and get the best Soldier 76 Leather Jacket jackets.

Safi said...

good efforts. thanks for sharing. i really appreciate your efforts. so please sharing such an amazing information.Jazz net offer

deanffranklin@gmail.com said...

An obligation of appreciation is for sharing your bits of information. I truly like your undertakings and I will hold it together for your further evaluations thank you no requesting. for additional information generously visit pink leather jacket

fullmetal said...

Hey friend, it is very well written article, thank you for the valuable and useful information you provide in this post. Keep up the good work! FYI,
How to remove credit card from apple id, Good Vibes Good Life Book Pdf Download Free, 10 lines on Doctor in English, what age do huskies stop growing

deanffranklin@gmail.com said...

Appreciative for this fundamental data through your site. I ought to thank you for the endeavors you had made for making this unprecedented article hawkeye jacket

coco said...

Hey friend, it is very well written article, thank you for the valuable and useful information you provide in this post. Keep up the good work! FYI, german shepherd growth chart , Credit card processing, Home Body by Rupi Kaur PDF Download , PV Sindhu Essay in English in 500+ Words

dev baker said...

Today, I am reading this article, the content in this article is much good and qualitative. For those who want to know about the feature of Kofax power pdf, then here is a link to read and explore more about the Kofax power pdf. Features of Kofax Power PDF. Go and know easily about it.

deanffranklin@gmail.com said...

Astonishing post! This is a lovely blog that I will definitively get back to more events this year! An obligation of appreciation is for instructive post. red puffer jacket

Bomberjacket said...

We Introduce Bomber Jackets In United State With Premium Quality Leather Used In Making Leather Jackets
Chief Keef Leather Jacket
Kansas State Letterman Jacket
Brown Bomber Lambskin Leather Jacket

GrabJackets said...

Grab Amazing Leather Jackets and Cosplay Jacket from our Store with free shipping world wide and extra gifts like TShirts
Jack Daniels Tennessee Biker Leather Jacket
Venice Locals Only Jacket
Justin Bieber Brown Bomber Satin Jacket

Anonymous said...

Thanks for writing this great article. I’ve been using some of these techniques on by blog. But I didn’t know the phrase “Social Proof”. Thanks for sharing. I was sick and fall behind in my assignments, but DoMyExamNow.com helped me get caught up in time for my finals. Help With My Online Class.

Albert Watson said...

Snoop Dogg purchased the iconic hip-hop company Death Row Records from the Blackstone- Snoop dogg tracksuit controlled MNRK Music Group earlier this month (formerly eOne Music). According to Billboard, the rapper is now teasing an NFT release of Dr. Dre's "Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang."

Sarah Josave said...

Thank you for posting such an excellent essay. On my blog, I've started employing some of these strategies. However, I was unfamiliar with the term "Social Proof." Thank you for providing this information. Tokyo Revengers Jacket

NIaz said...

you got an amazing content here. would like to visit for more.
Tecno Mobile Price

johnmartin said...

I'm here for the first time today. This blog has a lot of interesting topics, and I am very knowledgeable in ecommerce web development services. Please continue publishing this kind of useful article; you're doing a great job, I beg you! ecommerce web development services

EricFord said...

Really informative, this is a great article a and I am much pleased for your good work keep sharing more. Now it's time to avail stafford taxi for more information.

Henry said...

JANE AUSTEN IN MANHATTAN (1980) is one of my favorite movies and I love to watch this again and again. Now it's time to avail Hi Vis Polo Shirts for more information.

keniazugei said...

Lars Erickssong Wool Coat providing you with continuous pain relief. However, the procedure is sluggish. Therefore, even if there may be improved bioavailability, utilising a patch doesn't guarantee that you will experience the effects of CBD right away.

Price Yar said...

Price Yar: The latest mobile phone price in Pakistan

christian said...

your blog is great thanks for sharing cobra Kai jacket

Aron said...

Nice Blog
Cheap Carpet Cleaning Brisbane
Carpet Steam Cleaning Brisbane

Mike Rooney said...


I constantly read the smaller articles as well as clarify their motive.

8 Ball Bomber Jacket

The Genuine Leather said...

hello, thank you for sharing your article with us, and I truly value your information, which I really appreciate, and I would visit your website again.Sunrise Desert Safari Dubai

Ashlee Rolfson said...

Thank you for posting this review as it helps a lot to everyone. Have you check out BK go gift yourself?

Anonymous said...

I think this is an informative article and is very useful and knowledgeable therefore I would like to thankyou for the efforts you have made in writing this article. Hope so you shared more articles with us. Read more https://Chauffeur Service in Manchester/.

Jennifer Walsh said...

This review of "Jane Austen in Manhattan (1980)" is a fascinating insight into the film's portrayal of the iconic author's influence in a modern setting. The blog beautifully captures the essence of merging classic literature with contemporary storytelling. And while we immerse ourselves in Austen's world, don't forget to check out the victoria secret free shipping code no minimum to add a touch of elegance and luxury to your own modern-day adventures. Enjoy the film!

Amelia said...

The advanced features of Oscar SRB Integrated POS System can help you monitor all your store branches without any difficulty. You can always check your stock levels in each outlet so you can never run out of any product anywhere.

Linda marrero said...

This review of "Jane Austen in Manhattan (1980)" is a fascinating insight into the film's portrayal of the iconic author's influence in a modern setting. The blog beautifully captures the essence of merging classic literature with contemporary storytelling. And while we immerse ourselves in Austen's world, don't forget to check out the does barnes and noble price match to add a touch of elegance and luxury to your own modern-day adventures. Enjoy the film!

Lilly Anna said...

Jane Austen in Manhattan (1980) offers a delightful blend of classic literature and contemporary storytelling. couponcartdaily This film takes the timeless works of Jane Austen and weaves them into the fabric of Manhattan, creating a unique and charming narrative.

Anonymous said...

Your insightful analysis truly enhances the conversation. Mastering Clicks Per Second is a blend of practice and precision, and this test helps gauge one's progress!

Valentine’s Day Black Hoodie said...

Your blogs are very nice; I love reading them in my spare time. Valentine’s Day Black Hoodie

Anonymous said...

Thanks for bringing a rational viewpoint to the table. Just completed the Click Test , and my CPS has never been this impressive! Ready to tackle Minecraft like a pro gamer.

harperpaul said...

We'll examine how the film cleverly intertwines elements of Austen's novels – including themes of love, class, and societal expectations – with the modern-day struggles and aspirations of its characters. Through sharp dialogue, captivating performances, and lavish period costumes, "Jane Austen in Manhattan" offers a fresh and engaging take on timeless themes that continue to resonate with audiences today.
dui lawyer near me va

Anonymous said...

Looking to elevate your real estate career? Register with JoinDash and gain access to our licensed brokerage program, where you can earn a remarkable 100% commission. Don't miss out – start maximizing your income today! real estate agent registration online

Anonymous said...

Upgrade your home with handpicked furniture from CashAndCarryBeds. Discover timeless pieces that fit your unique style. plush velvet sofa

Anonymous said...

we are selling the best mens kurta pajam for eid collection you can visit our website and purchase kurta designs for mens

Batman Tuxedo said...

It Was A Premium Product, made me the center of attention during the prom night with batman tuxedo , it is a must buy for any gentleman out there.

Anonymous said...

are you looking for the best unstitched mens shalwar kameez then you can visit here mens cotton fabrics

Anonymous said...

are you looking for the miami vice event ticket then you can visit here for the ticket at reasonable prices and enjoy this event: unstitched shalwar kameez

kevinlevin said...

Beth Dutton pink handbag is a perfect blend of elegance and boldness. Its vibrant color and stylish design make it an eye-catching accessory.
beth dutton pink purse

Shawn Walter said...

afc richmond ted lasso jacket

Guest posting Sites said...

we are selling a summer kurta fabric at reasonable prices you can purchase it from here: mens summer kurta

Kit Charles said...

I’m continually amazed by the quality of content you produce. This blog post is yet another example of your ability to engage, educate, and inspire readers with your insightful writing.
23andMe Discount Student

Timothee Lambert said...

Your blog never fails to deliver value, and this post is no exception. The depth of research and the thoughtful presentation make it an outstanding read. I appreciate the effort you put into creating such informative content.
Porkbun Coupon

Anonymous said...

Your blog is a source of daily motivation. Thank you for consistently inspiring your readers with your content. Check this profile to gain more knowledge. Geometry Dash Online rhythmic gameplay offers an engaging challenge that keeps you on your toes.