But remember, Persuasion is a Jane Austen story, so be prepared to see all kinds of obstacles in their way, mostly of their own making. .             

Dakota Johnson at her best.

But “Persuasion” faces a test.

Will Jane Austen fans be okay

with this film awash in today?

The setting remains Austen’s time

with period clothes and some grime.

Bits of dialogue sound like now.

Is that enough to cause a row?

Still, the meeting of two ex loves

gets a handling with kid gloves.

Misunderstandings cause them grief

and time between them is too brief.

The actors seem to love their parts.

And romance angle tugs our hearts.

While not perfect, this film will do.

Dakota conquers something new.

Persuasion is the first Austen movie where the protagonist breaks the fourth wall. Anne talks directly to us, which helps move the story along. At first that seems ridiculous, but rising star Dakota Johnson soon charms us as she amuses and helps the audience understand what’s happening and how Anne feels about everything. My husband and I found this technique helpful in learning who’s who among the movie’s many characters.

However, my daughter, an Austen expert, believes this tactic didn’t do justice to Anne because of her snarky attitude and wine addiction. “Way out of character,” she explained and then added that the film fails to show how  responsible, mature, self-effacing and kind Anne is in the book.    .   

Still, Johnson and Jarvis (Calm with Horses) are convincing as a romantic couple. The way they look at each other sparks a bit of screen chemistry -- but we wanted more.

Stand-outs in the fine supporting cast include Richard E. Grant (Can You Ever Forgive Me?) as Anne’s self-centered father, Henry Golding (Crazy Rich Asians) as a suspicious suitor, and Nikki Amuka-Bird (Old) as Anne’s godmother and confidante. .                   

Sets, costumes, and cinematography are first-rate here. I felt transported back to 1800s England in many colorful scenes. That’s one of the things Jane Austen fans might like to hear. But you don’t have to be a fan to enjoy this Persuasion. It’s an entertaining offering without any explosions, gunfights, car chases or super-heroes.

(Released by Netflix and rated “PG” by MPAA.)

DIRECTOR: Carrie Cracknell

WRITERS: Screenplay of Jane Austen’s novel by Ron Bass and Alice Victoria Winslow