Maggie Smith (Harry Potter, My House in Umbria, Gosford Park, Sister Act) gives an effortless performance as the shrewd Lady Gresham, a woman so entrenched in propriety that she can barely comprehend anything that deviates from the norm. Smith uses great control; she could have played Gresham as a shrill despot, but instead, she keeps her character’s frustrated seething well modulated.

Another real gem is James McAvoy (Atonement, The Last King of Scotland, Chronicles of Narnia, Wimbledon); the man’s eyes alone convey so much. I expect more great things from this Glasgow native.

Shot in rural Ireland to lend a more authentic feel (the real Hampshire England today is too modern in architecture and landscape grooming) Becoming Jane is, for the most part, cinematically sufficient. Certain scenes though, are poorly lit, which makes it hard to see the actors’ faces. However, there is plenty of light to show the anachronistic thong that Hathaway sports under a nightgown in one scene. But overall, the filming, sound editing, and scoring – combined with the solid acting and directing - make for a satisfying and authentic experience.

Bonus Features

Deleted Scenes

I sometimes wonder why the studios include these, as if to say, “See – the editing was top notch, aren’t you glad you didn’t have to suffer through these bits?” But now and then some segments will actually edify the DVD experience. Many of the deleted scenes from Becoming Jane add some extra insights to the sensibilities of late 18th century England.

Discovering the Real Jane Austen

This is the “making of” section. For anyone who shares my particular fondness for behind the scenes goodies will enjoy the particulars of wardrobe decisions, intricate dance choreography, and the rainy location shoot.

Becoming Jane Pop-Up Facts and Footnotes

No, this isn’t your grandfather’s VH1 “Pop-Up Video”, with the annoying bubble sound effect. These factoids appear during various scenes and touch on everything from the history of cricket to the fact that Anne Hathaway learned to play piano just for this role.

Audio Commentary

As with the Pop-ups, this is best saved for subsequent viewings. Producer Robert Bernstein, writer Kevin Hood, and director Julian Jarrold give filming tidbits as the story unfolds.