Writer-director Whit Stillman brings a unique sense and sensibility to Love & Friendship, a laugh-out-loud comedy starring Kate Beckinsale as a sassy social climber. Stillman infuses this sharp-witted, frisky tale—based on the Jane Austen novella Lady Susan—with a bubbly effervescence as the widowed Susan (Beckinsale) maneuvers her way through society and finagles her way out of scandal while trying to gain matrimonial advantage for herself and her daughter during a visit to her in-laws. But will anyone be a suitable match for the sly and coy Lady Susan? Witty and spry from start to finish, Stillman’s adaptation—set in the 1790s—feels remarkably contemporary in its class analysis and use of humor. Eimer ni Mhaoldomhnaigh’s costume designs, the period detail in Anna Rackard’s production design, and strong supporting turns from Chloë Sevigny and Tom Bennett add to the rich tableau. Stillman’s first film in five years is one that confirms his status as one of modern cinema’s most distinctive filmmakers and a droll chronicler of the urban leisure class—no matter the era. —Randy Myers
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Writer-director Whit Stillman brings a unique sense and sensibility to Love & Friendship, a laugh-out-loud comedy starring Kate Beckinsale as a sassy social climber. Stillman infuses this sharp-witted, frisky tale—based on the Jane Austen novella Lady Susan—with a bubbly effervescence as the widowed Susan (Beckinsale) maneuvers her way through society and finagles her way out of scandal while trying to gain matrimonial advantage for herself and her daughter during a visit to her in-laws. But will anyone be a suitable match for the sly and coy Lady Susan? Witty and spry from start to finish, Stillman’s adaptation—set in the 1790s—feels remarkably contemporary in its class analysis and use of humor. Eimer ni Mhaoldomhnaigh’s costume designs, the period detail in Anna Rackard’s production design, and strong supporting turns from Chloë Sevigny and Tom Bennett add to the rich tableau. Stillman’s first film in five years is one that confirms his status as one of modern cinema’s most distinctive filmmakers and a droll chronicler of the urban leisure class—no matter the era. —Randy Myers
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Castro Theatre
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429 Castro Street, San Francisco, CA 94114
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