An American in Austen (2024)

[bunniefuu]

[opening theme]

NARRATOR:

And suddenly, there she was,

amidst the endless hillside,

running for her life, Yet as she

fled, each step seemed to take

her further away from...

from any memory of

where she was headed.

Running, running,

running, running...

Do you even know where

you're going with this?

Hi.

Hi.

I'm ready to return this.

OK.

So what did you think?

I think I'm definitely

ready for something lighter.

I told you it's

not just the title.

So what do you recommend next?

Oh, I think I have

just what you need.

So when I was a girl, I lived

in this section of the library,

OK?

Jane Austen

singlehandedly got me

through my parents' divorce and

well, every one of my breakups

after.

Just imagine writing the

definitive perspective

on women's lives and

struggles in the 1800s, OK?

These books are revolutionary.

And this one, this

is my favorite.

It's got everything.

It has love, and

heartbreak, and family,

and most importantly, Mr. Darcy.

Who?

OK.

Only the most iconic

heartthrob of all time.

Believe me.

This will make you

forget all about cholera.

Well, in that case, thanks.

Ethan?

Hello, my love.

I was just wrapping up.

What are you doing here?

Well, I was thinking, if

your wonderful and gracious

supervisor didn't mind,

I might steal you away

for a little anniversary dinner.

Oh, flattery will get

you everywhere with me.

We're closed.

You two have fun.

OK.

So I'll see you tomorrow,

right, because I'm opening?

SUPERVISOR: Yup.

Have fun, sweetie.

That's it.

Thanks.

Thank you.

It's not OK.

We're practically

in the kitchen.

We're going to make the food.

When I booked the reservation,

I asked for their best table.

I'm going to say something.

No, no, OK.

I think it's beautiful.

WAITER: Excuse me.

Wait.

You know what?

It actually does remind

me of our first date.

Oh, when I fell for

those fake tickets?

We spent the whole

concert eating string

cheese in the parking lot.

Just trying to guess

what song was playing.

Well, you're actually

really good at it.

Thank you.

And you don't let go of a

guy who memorizes every lyric

to every Foreigner song.

Well, thank you.

That's kind of nerdy.

Oh, thank you.

It's a skill.

[distant chatter]

I love you.

It's been an

amazing three years.

You look stressed.

Is it the book?

I'm sorry.

I just... I haven't experienced

this kind of writer's block

before.

It's like I know

the who of it, but I

just can't figure out the why.

You just need some inspiration.

Maybe.

Maybe I should

request some time off.

We could drive out to the

country, clear your head,

connect to nature.

Hmm.

Nature, my mortal enemy.

No.

I prefer concrete rooms.

I'd write masterpieces

in prison.

What's wrong?

My phone.

I must have left it.

Oh.

Where did you have it last?

I think it's at the library.

The library?

- Yeah.

- Yeah.

We'll just... we'll

swing by and grab it.

That's weird.

Nat never closes up this fast.

[guitar strumming]

What?

[singing] You don't

have to read my mind

to know what I have in mind.

Honey, you ought to know.

Now you move so fine.

Let me lay it on the line.

I want to know what you're

doing after the show.

Now it's up to you.

We can make a secret

rendezvous, just me and you.

I'll show you loving

like you never knew.

Because I'm hotblooded,

check and see.

I got a fever of 103.

Come on, baby.

Do you do more than dance?

Because I'm hotblooded.

I'm hotblooded.

Will you marry me?

- Maybe?

- I don't know.

I don't know.

I don't know.

I just... I froze.

I feel terrible.

It was so romantic too.

Have you never just

thought that things

were supposed to be different?

I just always thought

that I would be walking

along the sidewalk one

day, and like a dashing

stranger would just come up to

me, just sweep me off my feet.

You've just

described a kidnapping.

And also, that

guy doesn't exist.

Well, Darcy exists.

Oh, boy.

Here we go.

She's rambling about Jane

Austen's characters again.

No.

Darcy was real.

Actually, definitely fictional.

Come on.

Time to go.

Did you see that?

See what?

It's a sh**ting star.

Quick.

Make a wish.

Yeah.

Like a do-over?

I wish for Mr. Darcy.

Or that's fine too.

Now go home and

consider reality.

Where to?

21 Highland Drive, please.

Oh.

Uh.

What is that

Smell?

[horse neighing]

What is happening?

Excuse me, sir?

I think you took a

wrong turn somewhere.

Almost there, miss.

Where is there?

Did Ethan put you up to this?

Look, this is really cute, and

terrifying, and everything.

But I would really like my

cell phone back now, please.

Best to brace yourself inside.

After last night's rain,

the road is a bit irregular.

Oh.

[music playing]

She's arrived.

She's here at last.

Mr. Bennet.

Girls.

Come out at once.

My dear Harriet.

The ride must have

vanquished you.

Oh.

We are so delighted to have you.

How was your journey?

Pleasant enough?

How are you feeling?

Perhaps something to

drink or some food?

We have quite an

accomplished cook.

Yes.

Or perhaps you could simply give

the young lady room to breathe.

Sideburns.

Oh, you poor dear.

I imagine it's all

quite overwhelming.

Hello.

I'm Elizabeth.

But you can call me Lizzy.

Do Americans wear nightgowns

during the daytime?

Is that a real question?

These are your other cousins.

Jane.

Delighted to make

your acquaintance.

And Mary.

Hello.

Hello.

You must be Harriet.

I am Lydia.

It's so good to meet you.

And the one crawling

all over you is Kitty.

Hello, cousin.

Is it customary to not

wear shoes in America?

Good heavens.

Kitty.

Kitty, go and fetch

her some of yours.

Wait.

So Jane, Lizzy, Mary,

Lydia, and Kitty.

Bennet.

I often find myself quite

underwhelmed by the thought

as well.

This is a bit.

You guys are messing with me.

Because I said maybe, and now

Ethan has set this all up,

right?

Let's get you inside.

Wow.

So you never break character.

OK.

Well, I'm in as long as you

guys have breakfast burritos

because I'm starving.

10 weeks at sea is sure

to confuse the best of us.

Rest and nourishment

is all that is needed.

Wow.

Oh, the classic art,

the ornate furniture.

The detailing of

this place is unreal.

You never see this

level of commitment

and experiences anymore.

A few months ago, I did

that Titanic exhibit.

I think they faked the letters.

Cousin, I do hope

you'll be recovered

enough to accompany us to

the assembly in Meryton

this evening.

Meryton.

We're actually going to Meryton?

Yes.

Mama has been conspiring

to introduce us to

our new neighbor, Mr. Bingley.

He's a single man

of large fortune.

Perhaps Cousin

Harriet can borrow

some clothes for the ball.

I dare say she shan't

fit into any of mine.

You are free to take

any of my dresses, cousin.

Yes.

Wear Jane's.

Her figure is more

ample, like yours.

Lydia, move.

Almost there.

We just need to get

your stomach in.

OK.

I think we're

going to need a lot

more than an inhale for that.

Just one more deep breath.

I mean, is this

really necessary?

It just feels like

it's excessive.

You look beautiful.

Oh, I can't feel my legs.

Doesn't she look lovely, Lydia?

Jane, you may have to compete

for Mr. Bingley's attention

tonight.

Shush.

I'm just going to

sit down for a second.

No.

Best to keep you upright.

Come along.

[music playing]

There are many fine gentlemen

in attendance tonight.

OK.

I'm officially freaking out.

There are over 100 people

here, and they are all wearing

authentic Regency costumes.

I mean, honestly, I'm impressed.

Who produced this?

James Cameron?

You'll be less impressed

once you actually meet

the gentleman in attendance.

You should know, Lizzy is

the most cynical individual

in all of Hertfordshire.

And Jane is the most

hopelessly idealistic.

Hello, Lizzy.

Hello, Jane.

Have you heard Mr.

Bingley has arrived?

Was he as handsome as they say?

Only to the most

hopelessly idealistic.

Charlotte, do meet Harriet,

our cousin from America.

America?

Oh, what is it like

there, Harriet?

Oh, Charlotte.

Well, they really

did cast everyone.

Strange creature.

Look, Jane.

There he is.

Who is that woman

standing with Mr. Bingley?

It's his sister.

And who is that?

Lizzy, that's who I've

been speaking with you about.

Mr. Darcy.

Oh, boy.

Jane.

Mr. Bingley is behind you.

There you are, a vision

fit for engagement.

Good evening.

Mr. Bingley, I presume.

We are so pleased to

make your acquaintance.

This is my eldest

daughter, Jane.

Mrs. Bennet, I

admit I recently

heard tell of the beauty

of the Bennet women.

But the rumors

pale in comparison

to the beauty before me.

You flatter us, Mr. Bingley.

Wow.

He's good.

Everyone says I

have the prettiest,

most accomplished girls

in all of England.

Yes.

But forgive me.

Allow me to introduce my

charming sister, Caroline,

and my dear friend, Mr....

Fitzwilliam Darcy of

Pemberley in Derbyshire.

So sorry.

Who's your friend?

Are you already acquainted?

No.

I'm just, I'm very

involved in the community.

This is our cousin,

Harriet, from America.

Charmed, I'm sure.

Who cares for a dance?

[waltz music playing]

Should we ask

Mr. Darcy to dance?

Oh.

I think it'll be kind of

weird after my whole...

Oh, you mean you.

Mr. Darcy, do you

care for dancing?

Not if I can avoid it.

Pay him no mind.

Whoever do you mean?

Jane is simply magical.

Perhaps her sister

catches your eye.

There's no one here to tempt me.

You should return

to your partner.

She's easily the most

tolerable of them all.

Darcy, you are far

too difficult to please.

Excuse me.

Hi.

I've always struggled

with this part.

You know, the obnoxious

locker room bravado?

And just so you know,

that tolerable woman

is the best thing that

could ever happen to you.

And the only embarrassing

thing is how long

it takes for you to see it.

Wow.

You're hot.

What a strange creature.

Shall we?

Harriet, what did you say?

You left him

positively speechless.

Oh.

Oh, I don't dance.

Oh, we're dancing.

When did you all learn this?

Ages ago.

[waltz music playing]

[clap]

LIZZY: What is the noise?

Oh, dear cousin, join us.

Quietly now.

I needed the jaws of life to

break me out of that corset.

Do any of your backs

feel different?

No?

Oh.

You're still young.

Pray tell.

How many years are you?

OK.

Well, let's just say I'm

old enough that it's not

not weird to me that we're

all sitting in our nightgowns

together.

My goodness.

You're older than 25.

I'm older than 30.

My dear, without a husband?

You're practically

fit for an asylum.

I find it rather inspiring.

Do you have a suitor back home?

I do.

Well, he proposed

to me the other day.

Oh, Cousin Harriet.

You are to be wed.

Well, not exactly

because I said...

I said maybe.

Maybe?

Maybe.

Oh, how spectacularly modern.

What about your family?

It's not really a factor for me.

Are they all dead?

No.

It's just not

really the same now.

You know, in America.

How spectacularly freeing to

be able to decide on your own.

Or to not decide at all.

It's the silver

lining, I suppose.

Does he love you?

Yeah.

He really does.

I think that is splendid.

Wait.

So you really don't know

Ethan, or Natalie, or Wendy?

Are these relatives?

I thought this game

would have ended by now,

but I'm starting to feel like

I'm the only one in on it.

We would love to play

this little game with you.

I think I'm going

to go lie down.

Just hope that I wake up

in a couple centuries.

Candle.

[giggles]

What is going on?

I think at that age,

you get very tired.

[rooster crowing]

Good morning, cousin.

It's super creepy,

Kitty, or Lydia.

Kitty.

I brought you one of

my dresses to wear today.

You don't happen to have

my cell phone, do you?

Oh, great.

More corsets.

Breakfast is ready downstairs.

I just need to

take a quick shower.

So where is the bathroom?

On Saturdays, we use a basin.

Basin.

Certainly explains the scent.

OK.

I'll stick it out.

Come along then, cousin.

Up up, up, up, up.

It's still creepy.

Still creepy.

Oh, Harriet.

Do come and join us.

Did you sleep well?

We were hoping to

go into town today.

Kitty, for goodness

sake, let the girl be.

Would you like some toast?

Thank you.

I'm starving.

I should think embarrassing

a man of such rank

should make a woman ravenous.

[laughter]

Lizzy, that is not a

behavior to encourage.

You should be endeavoring

to be more like your sister

Jane, who found

herself a worthy suitor

last night in Mr. Bingley.

He is simply magical.

Lizzy, whatever happened

last night with Mr. Darcy?

I do not wish to spend any more

time speaking on the matter.

Personally, I find

Harriet's choice

of being an old maid heroic.

Old maid is a bit harsh.

Lizzy, you must come to

realize that finding a husband

is not akin to what you

read about in books.

There is the grave matter of

resolving your status in life

and the status of your family.

Love is truly a luxury

only afforded to men.

Well, I find that to be a most

tragic view of life, mother.

So how much longer does

this whole thing last?

Breakfast?

[bleating]

Kitty, look.

Can you imagine

marrying an officer?

Yes.

I absolutely can.

Now girls, for the stew tonight,

we need three onions and

eight perfect potatoes.

Ethan?

Ethan?

Ethan?

Ethan.

You're not Ethan.

Sorry, miss.

I have no money.

Please take my hat.

Wait.

What year is it?

The year of our Lord.

There's no planes.

There's no power lines.

This isn't a game.

I'm stuck in Pride

and Prejudice.

Tell me again what happened?

We just found her like this.

What do we do?

I do not know.

Do you think she

went stark raving mad?

Perhaps.

Or perhaps she's depressed

because she's an old maid.

You do realize I can hear you.

Oh, my dearest cousin.

We were simply worried sick.

Thank you, girls.

I'm fine now, really.

Mother said she found you

lying face down in an alley

Well, I'm relatively fine.

Look.

It's nothing.

I'm just... I'm homesick.

It's been a long trip.

A letter for our

Jane from Netherfield.

Well, my dear.

What does it say?

Make haste, my love.

It is from Caroline Bingley.

She invites me for

supper at Netherfield.

Oh, Mr. Bingley will be out.

It is most unfortunate.

May I take the carriage?

Child, you shall instead

travel by horseback.

My dear, the storm.

Hush.

This way, should the

weather cooperate,

she will be forced

to stay the night.

Or maybe she'll catch a cold

and be forced to stay longer.

Even better.

[rain pouring]

[knocking]

[delicate sneeze]

[rooster crowing]

Now, now.

This is for the best.

What is for the best?

It's our daughter's well-being.

How you do not

equate their marital

status with their well-being

is your own folly.

So how's Jane?

Word from Netherfield

is that Jane is ill.

Who could have

ever foreseen that?

Papa, worry not.

Harriet and I shall

go to Netherfield

ourselves to tend to Jane.

OK.

But I see where this is headed,

and it's way too far to walk.

We need to use the carriage.

Nonsense.

It is such a beautiful day.

We absolutely must enjoy the

glow in the wake of the storm.

OK.

So I can't rewrite

the walking part.

That's great.

It's impossible to

love nature this much.

Actually, it's a

pretty cheap attempt

at character development.

I just favor the fresh smell

of the grass after a storm.

No.

I don't, and that grass is

getting your dress dirty.

And if Caroline

sees you like that,

she's going to call you a pig.

I refuse to imagine

someone looking

upon nature in such a way.

Wow.

So you'll just stick to

the script regardless.

Netherfield.

Mr. Darcy, I do hope you

will be staying longer with us.

There are so many things that

I propose we do together.

Miss Elizabeth.

Harriet, welcome.

Mr. Bingley.

Dear girls, the outdoors

are outdoors for a reason.

You look right

fit for a pig pen.

Well, I think the exercise

has given your complexions

a newly-found brilliance.

What a kind thing to say.

Thank you, Mr. Bingley.

How is my sister?

There has been some improvement,

but I have sent

for the apothecary.

Please, let me

show you her room.

Wait here, will you, cousin?

I...

You know what I would

really love to see?

It's just even better than

I could have imagined.

Do you read books much?

Well, I practically

live in them.

In some ways, the pages

within these walls

are just as much a part of

me as my own skin and bones...

Like this one, Evelina.

This one taught

me that confidence

is an admirable trait to have.

And you can be both

strong and kind.

Is something the matter?

No.

It's... it's just

this place reminds me

of somewhere I've been before.

When we first

started dating, Ethan

took me to Burlington,

which is one of the oldest

libraries in America.

You must care a great

deal for this Ethan.

I do.

I do.

I guess.

I guess I've just been waiting

for it to feel like this.

Like a library.

Yeah, Mr. Darcy.

I've been waiting for love

to feel like a library.

Seems like a silly notion to me.

I am feeling much improved.

You are not.

You need rest.

But Lizzy, I cannot remain here

any longer on such kindness.

Nonsense.

Jane, you shall remain

here until you are well.

It is not an imposition

in the slightest.

Now Elizabeth, I

entreat you to join

us downstairs in the sitting

room so your sister may rest.

Jane, I will have you a

plate fixed for supper.

MR. DARCY: Please.

Lizzy, come sit.

Mr. Darcy, I simply must

see your sister again.

I have told her already of

your intention to see her.

Well, I pray you

to tell her again.

The last incident in

which we made company,

we both laughed

until our faces hurt.

Yes.

I should think it's a popular

occurrence in your company.

You, on the other

hand, I believe

my sister would quite enjoy.

Me?

I somehow doubt that.

On the contrary, she is a

passionate admirer of America.

You know who your

sister would love?

Elizabeth.

My sister has refined taste.

I would think that a

woman interested in America

would value Elizabeth's

emotional strength

and curiosity.

But perhaps, dear

cousin, that curiosity

falls short of a sibling

with presumably no faults.

You presume I have no faults.

I was of the understanding we

were speaking of your sister.

Of course.

As for you, Mr. Darcy, it is

quite evident you have faults

as they flow from your every

pore, your principal defect

being your propensity

to hate everyone.

And yours is to willfully

misunderstand them.

Who's ready for dinner?

Starving.

Good evening, dear Harriet.

Mr. Darcy.

I wasn't expecting you.

Nor was I expecting you.

Had I known you had

intentions for a stroll,

I would have made

certain to accompany you.

Well, maybe I

like to be startled.

Oh.

Do you know what I find

most attractive about you?

No.

It is your mind.

You spend your life learning

of the finite possibilities

of woman, only for one to come

along and completely redefine

them, the peculiar manner

in which you speak,

your complete lack of decorum,

your remarkably white teeth.

You know who also has

great teeth, is Elizabeth.

You know, growing up, I always

saw a lot of myself in her.

You say this of your cousin

who is 10 years your junior.

How odd.

Your mind fascinates me.

It's a figure of speech.

Don't read into it.

Perhaps I can entice you to

stay behind for another day?

You could watch me write

correspondence whilst walking

endlessly about the room.

Yeah.

That does sound enticing.

But I just remembered

it's my turn

to clean out the horses'

stables tomorrow,

and I can't miss that.

So good night, Mr. Darcy.

What just happened?

Good night, dear Harriet.

Dear Jane, the color

has returned to your face.

Oh, yes.

I'm feeling much

better this morning.

I'm just disappointed I've

missed another festivities.

Oh.

You did not miss

much, I assure you.

Did you not then enjoy

your time with Mr. Darcy?

Cannot even stand

to hear the name.

If there is one man

roaming this Earth

whom I can swear I will

never find a softness for,

it is Mr. Darcy.

[moan]

Oh, dear cousin.

You in the other hand are

looking worse for the wear.

The mornings are rough.

But the mornings are the

very best part of the day.

Each one gives birth

to new possibility.

[groan] OK.

I have to tell you

guys something.

OK.

I don't know how

to tell you this.

I can see the future.

How far into the future?

I mean, pretty far.

Oh, my.

Are you mad?

That is also

still a possibility.

No, Jane.

I've noticed her do it

before at Netherfield

with the muddy dress.

Yes.

What does it feel like

when you see the future?

It feels like

I'm reading a book.

And then later on, when those

things happen in real life,

it feels like I'm

living that book.

So that's what I've been doing.

I've been living a book.

Oh.

I would imagine it burns.

Yeah, sure.

It burns.

And that is why

you are all the time

moaning and making

those dreadfully

uncomfortable noises.

Not all the time.

But OK, yeah.

Sure.

That's part of it.

We shall test you.

A test?

Yes.

To prove you speak the truth,

we shall ask you questions

about things that will come.

And if you do indeed

read the future,

then you shall know

what things will come.

Oh, what a splendid idea.

Who do we marry?

No.

No.

Let's cancel the test.

Oh, cousin.

We must know who we marry.

I will simply die

if I do not know.

OK, Jane.

It's... it's Mr. Bingley.

[giggling]

OK.

Cool.

Test over.

Oh.

That is easy.

I could have told you that.

OK, my turn.

Who do I marry?

Is he tall and dashing?

It's...

[muttering]

Pardon?

[muttering]

What?

It's Mr. Darcy.

I'm sorry, Lizzy, but it's true.

Well, now I know

you're not only mad,

but you're also cruel.

At least he's rich.

[giggle]

Yeah.

I know.

Thank you, sir, for

your generous hospitality.

It was my immense pleasure

to nurse you back to health.

Mr. Darcy.

Miss Bennet.

Seeing as you

desired it so much,

I see no better

owner for the book.

Thank you.

Please do send word

of your safe arrival.

[music playing]

There she is.

Oh, Jane.

This is such a relief to

see you well and good.

Thank you.

That would be a new concern.

What's the matter with her?

Darling.

Hi, Papa.

How good it is you've

arrived in time for supper?

We shall have a special

guest at our table tonight.

Mr. Collins.

I congratulate

you, Mrs. Bennet.

And what for, Mr. Collins?

The house is all

so well maintained.

The walls, in particular,

do not show their wear.

And while I did not see these

walls when they were new,

I can only imagine it was

similar to how they look now.

And such fine daughters.

This is excellent pea soup.

I would believe

it among the five

best that I have ever eaten.

[sputtering]

Am I to understand

that these vibrant peas

were grown on the property?

MRS. BENNET: Yes.

In fact, they were.

Most splendid.

You see, the reason I inquire

about these delicious peas

being grown on the

property is to measure

the value of this estate.

It is of interest

to me as its heir.

Well, how kind of to

spare us the mystery.

My understanding is

that you intend to fit

your daughters for marriage.

Yes, that is true.

I admit that I am

quite instantly attracted

to your daughter, Jane.

I must inform

you, Mr. Collins,

that the eldest Bennet daughter

is very soon to be engaged.

Yes.

But Miss Elizabeth

is next in line

and has all the qualities

of which you seek.

Would you not agree?

No.

No.

I would think that

not agreeable.

Then the next eldest, Mary.

Indeed.

Mary has a countenance

that I perceive

as very fitting for a wife.

What a wonderful remark to make.

Kind remarks are an

easy hobby of mine.

It takes very

little effort for me

to craft one effective in

earning a woman's response.

What's going on?

Shh.

Well, it appears

congratulations are in order.

My dear, I hope

you'll be very happy.

Yeah.

Thank you, Papa.

Thank heavens.

We are saved.

Well, now it is done.

Mr. Collins is to wed Mary.

But I suppose you

already knew that?

Mr Collins wed Mary.

No.

No.

No.

No.

It's not right.

Mr. Collins, are you sure you

got a good look at everyone?

There's no one

else that you might

want to propose to,

like maybe someone

just like not in this family?

I beg your pardon.

Harriet, you must

stop all this at once.

Mr. Collins, please

pay no heed to Harriet.

She arrived here merely days

ago after a lengthy voyage

from America.

Perhaps we could all

use some fresh air.

Yes.

Do you speak of

someone in particular?

I can't with you.

Mary.

You can't marry him.

Of course I can.

You barely even know him.

Well, and the parts of him

that you do, I mean, come on.

Really?

Like Mama says, we are not

all afforded the luxury of love.

Someone must protect our family.

OK.

And one of your sisters

eventually will.

But it does not have to be you.

It does not have to be now.

And it definitely does not

have to be to that weirdo.

Look, take care of

your family, but not

at the expense of yourself.

I'm sorry that you

cannot understand

what needs to be done.

Not all of us have the

freedom to pick apart

suitors or reject proposals.

Well, I said maybe.

Look how pretty.

That bonnet would

look lovely on you

if only you had the

money to buy it.

Lydia.

Pardon me, ladies.

I do not intend to

give you all a fright.

Beautiful things have a

way of distracting us.

George Wickham at your service.

Oh.

Ms. Bennet.

Jane.

I was just on my way to

Longbourn to enquire after you.

It is a joy to see

you, Mr. Bingley.

You are well, I hope.

Yes.

I'm feeling much better.

Thank you.

Then I hope you will accept

an invitation to the ball

at Netherfield tomorrow.

There is much to celebrate, and

we shall have an honored guest.

The duchess herself will attend.

I hope you ladies

will be in attendance.

And Mr. Wickham

must come as well.

Yes.

Mr. Wickham, please do join us.

She walks in beauty,

like the night.

Of cloudless climes

and starry skies,

of all that's best

of dark and bright.

What is he doing?

You have inspired me to

write poetry, Miss Harriet.

It's very sweet.

It's very plagiarized.

Well, how fitting then

that you now inspire

me to actually write it.

I wish you farewell, ladies.

Now, would anyone like a hat?

Oh, me.

Oh, spare me.

Mr. Wickham?

I noticed some tension

between you and Darcy.

Why don't you go

ahead and tell Lizzy

what that was all about, hmm?

Well, I believe it all

began with Mr. Darcy's father.

The old man had always

taken kindly to me,

and when he passed,

he left me a larger

inheritance than his own son.

I can only assume

it was bitterness

that led Darcy to steal that

inheritance for himself.

I suppose you could say it

was less tension between us,

and it was Mr.

Darcy's own jealousy.

I find that it is easier to

be blinded by a man's fortune

and consequence to only see him

as the way he wants to be seen.

OK, Darcy didn't steal anything.

You spent it all.

You wanted more.

And then he cut you off.

Harriet.

I shall see you

both at the ball.

Oh.

Ugh.

Lizzy.

No.

[knocking]

Hey, can we talk?

I would think you would

already know the answer.

Look, I'm sorry about

what happened today.

I did not mean to

hurt your feelings.

First you say I

am to wed Mr. Darcy,

and now you humiliate me

in front of Mr. Wickham,

without any intent on

hurting my feelings.

There are just certain

things that I know,

and I just do not want

you to be disappointed.

Wickham does not come

to the ball tomorrow.

It is so, cousin,

that everything you know

happens to ruin my life.

Well, I suppose this will

serve as the perfect test

of whether you can read

the future after all.

I am destroying Jane Austen.

[waltz music playing]

Your grace.

Let me introduce my

daughters in order of age...

Jane, Elizabeth, Mary,

Catherine, and Lydia.

Oh, and I almost

forgot, our very eldest

cousin, Harriet, from America.

It's a great pleasure to

see all of you here tonight.

And Jane, I've heard

about Miss Jane

Bennet, the belle of the ball?

Charles said he was throwing

this ball in honor of my visit.

But I think it might

be a simple excuse

to see Miss Bennet again.

Ah.

I see you have met

our guest of honor.

Now if I may be so presumptuous

as to ask for a dance.

Miss Harriet.

Good to see you.

Have you seen Mr. Darcy?

No.

I haven't, but I have a

feeling he'll pop up somewhere.

You Americans and your feelings.

Oh.

Hello, Charlotte.

I pray you.

Have you seen Mr.

Wickham this evening?

I have not.

But I'm dying for you

to make an introduction.

Good evening.

Would you happen to

know where your sister

Mary has run off to?

I had visions of

asking her to dance.

She went off with Mrs. Bennet.

But have you had the pleasure

of meeting Charlotte yet?

I have not.

I have just now had visions

of asking you to dance.

You cannot help but to

meddle, can you, cousin?

But...

[applause]

Welcome.

Welcome.

Welcome to Netherfield.

We are so pleased you could join

us on this beautiful evening.

Now, let's dance.

[waltz music playing]

[applause]

Miss Bennet.

Mr. Wickham.

Mr. Wickham.

Mr. Wickham.

Mr. Wickham, what

are you doing here?

How good of you to join us.

And good of you to have me.

With my tardiness,

I fear we have

much dancing to catch up on.

Well, then time

is of the essence.

Well, time is of the essence.

I knew I would find you in here.

You really have

to stop doing that.

Forgive me.

But I'm in such great pain.

Oh, no.

What's wrong?

Love, Miss Harriet.

It is the terrible

agony of love.

Please.

I must make a confession.

Do you really have to?

I simply must.

I adore you.

Do you though?

You are a stranger that

seemingly fell from the sky.

And now I find myself...

I find myself...

Bewitched?

Precisely.

It's like you're inside my head.

You have bewitched me.

And now I have but

one question for you,

my dear Harriet, my

strange creature.

[shudders]

Will you make me the

happiest of men and be my wife?

This is the moment I

have always dreamt of,

and you are the man that

I have always dreamt of.

Then it is settled.

But now that it is

happening, for real,

this is not the feeling that

I have always dreamt of.

But feelings can grow.

I'm in love with another man.

You belong with another woman.

I could never love again.

I know the feeling of falling

for the idea of someone,

but that feeling is tied to

an idea and not a real person.

You don't need me, Mr. Darcy.

You need a real person.

Very well.

I shall be on my way.

We need to talk.

Just why must you

insist on tormenting

my every relationship?

OK.

You're right.

I have gotten in the way.

Well, at least we

agree on something.

OK.

But listen.

This, Lizzy, it's

not who you are.

You speak the truth.

I did not feel myself tonight.

I feel better.

I don't know how this works

or who I should be addressing.

I'll just jump right in.

It's me.

Hi.

I'm the problem.

It's me.

She really is a voice

of a generation.

I'll get back to it.

I've messed everything

up, and I really

don't know how to fix it.

I made the wish

because I thought

that the answer to everything

was Mr. Darcy, that one day,

some man would just

fall into my life

and make everything perfect.

But maybe love

isn't about finding

some magical puzzle piece

or writing the perfect book.

Maybe it's about the

moments between the pages.

I don't know.

I just... I guess I'm just

kind of scared now because I'm

scared that it's too late,

that I won't get to see

Ethan again, that I

won't get to tell him

how much he means to me.

So please, please,

please, please,

please just let me go home.

Well, that's it.

[rooster crowing]

Yeah.

We get it.

Mr. Bingley has left.

ELIZABETH: Please, Jane.

Open the door.

JANE: Caroline wants to help

to marry Mr. Darcy's sister.

Jane.

He's just misguided, OK?

He loves you.

What does it matter?

He's gone, and he shall

not return this winter.

I... I've lost him.

And you said that

we were to be wed.

My dearest Jane.

This must be Mr. Darcy's doing.

Wait, Lizzy.

You might be right

because in the book...

In the future, Darcy

convinces Bingley that Bingley

has stronger feelings than you.

Jane, you have to go to London.

You have to get him back.

It's the only way.

To say what?

How you truly feel.

I cannot do that.

I do not have the words.

Well, I'll come with you.

I know words.

Perhaps... perhaps

it is time I do

take matters into my own hands.

Go, Jane.

I will see to Mother.

Let's rewrite this story.

I love a dramatic exit.

[music playing]

So what do you guys

do about the nausea?

Listen.

We did not think

this part through.

What would we say?

Too late for that now.

Just move.

Jane.

What in the world

are you doing here?

And why on Earth

are you running?

We came all the way to

London to give you a message.

Jane has something

she would like to say.

Jane, I did deeply

regret the need to leave

so quickly on business.

Yes.

And I did receive your note.

It's just that Mr.

Bingley, Charles,

upon receiving your note, I

was forced into considering

a future without you.

And I dare say I grew

terribly sad at the notion.

You are generous, and kind, and

you have a fine head of hair,

which is no small thing.

It's true.

And I dare say I

find myself to be

helplessly falling for you.

Well, this is

most inappropriate.

I really didn't see it

playing out like that.

[rooster crowing]

Morning, Mrs. B.

Harriet.

Lizzy said you'd gone

to London with Jane.

I was quite thankful for that.

Oh.

I don't think you'll be thanking

me after you hear how it went.

Are you OK?

Lizzy and I had quite the

argument while you were out.

She contended that I care

of nothing but the marriage

of my daughters.

You know that at

times, I may be a bit

overbearing with

the girls, but it's

only because I know

well the alternative

to timely matrimony.

All I want in this world is for

my daughters to be cared for.

Of course I want them happy.

But in order for

happiness, there must

first be safety and security.

Those things, after all,

are the foundation of love.

I wish I'd had a

mother that cared

that much about my happiness.

Being a mother is

an impossible endeavor

my dear, almost as impossible

as being a daughter.

[screaming]

MRS. BENNET: Jane.

What is it?

It's Mr. Wickham.

Oh, no.

What is it?

What's the matter?

Lizzy has run off

with Mr. Wickham.

Wait, Lizzy?

She'll be ruined.

OK.

Well, that's a little

ironic coming from you.

I would never.

I will fix this.

Cousin.

Cousin.

Cousin.

What is happening?

The changes to the story

are starting to compound.

Lizzy didn't connect

with Darcy because of me.

And then Collins proposed to

Mary instead of Charlotte.

And then Wickham showed

up at the ball, which

should never have happened.

And now Lizzy

thinks she's in love

with him instead of Mr. Darcy.

Don't worry.

I got this.

Oh, dear.

I must apologize for my

behavior during the proposal.

I apologize for my proposal.

I apologize... I apologize

for my behavior.

Mr. Darcy?

Miss Harriet.

Forgive me.

I was just rehearsing an

apology for someone else.

Yeah.

Yeah.

OK.

We don't have time for that.

I need your carriage.

Chop chop.

Lizzy ran off with Mr. Wickham.

Did she say where she went?

All I know is that

they're getting married.

There's only one

place they could be.

And has the lady

the family's approval?

The lady has more than that.

She has the courage of

her own convictions.

That is well and good, but

in the eyes of the Lord...

Stop.

Darcy.

George, you must stop

at once with the charade.

I'm afraid I do not follow.

Lizzy, what are you doing?

You don't love him.

But love is a luxury

only afforded to men, is it

not, cousin?

OK.

Well, if you intend to marry

for practical purposes,

there are things that

you need to know.

For heaven's sake,

Harriet, just let it go.

I have overlooked your

many transgressions,

but I will not stand

idly by while you

deceive an innocent woman.

What will it take

this time, George,

for this is the last

time I shall consider

relieving you of your debts.

Is this true?

You have debts?

Name your price,

but let this woman go

and say nothing to

impugn her reputation.

Do you really think

our love will be...

10,000.

George.

Let us speak plainly.

Your dowry cannot compete

with such a fortune.

Lizzy.

Lizzy.

I'm so sorry.

No.

No.

I must apologize.

What hurts the most is that

I was wrong about everything.

I've always considered

myself a curious thinker.

I guess I was

blind to the truth,

no matter the attempts you made.

You were right about everything.

Cousin.

Sorry, sorry.

I'm just not used to being

on this side of things.

So I just wanted to

enjoy it for a moment.

Look.

You have taught me more

than you'll ever know.

I'm just happy I could

return the favor.

Ladies.

Your chariot awaits.

Come on.

Let's go home.

Yes.

Mr. Darcy, I

want to thank you.

It was incredibly kind

of to come to my rescue.

Your cousin did

all the rescuing.

I was merely a conduit.

I confess I'm

terribly embarrassed.

I behaved as though

under a spell.

We can all behave madly

when we believe we're in love.

You misunderstand me.

I'm embarrassed for the

way I have treated you.

I'm afraid I unfairly

judged your character.

I fear, Lizzy, that I have

given you plenty to misjudge.

Aw.

Sorry.

Ooh.

Tired.

Americans sleep more than sheep.

I've never seen such a thing.

(WHISPERS) It may be

a reflection of age.

Mr. Darcy, you're a surprise.

[thudding]

You know what?

We're almost back.

I think I'll walk from here.

You intend to walk

the rest of the way?

What can I say?

It's a beautiful day.

[whistling]

Mr. Bennet, I bring

word for Mr. Collins.

Girls.

Mr. Collins.

What does it say, my dear?

Mr. Collins is breaking

off the engagement.

We are doomed.

OK.

It might not seem like it, but

this is a very good thing, OK?

It's... it's a very

good thing, guys.

OK, I promise.

It's a very good thing.

Oh.

What are we to do

to restitution?

Lizzy.

[horse neighing]

Goodness.

Is that Mr. Bingley?

Oh.

About time.

Oh, dear.

He brings Mr. Darcy as well.

Hurry.

Hurry, girls.

Make yourselves presentable.

[clears throat]

Mr. Bingley desires

an audience with Jane.

Alone.

Kitty.

Lydia, I want to see.

I want to see.

We can't see.

Miss Bennett.

Mr. Bingley.

I was a great fool in London.

Your words to me were

so true that I have

spent days thinking of them.

In my haste, I questioned

your intentions.

And for that, I am deeply sorry.

But I refuse to allow you to

become my greatest regret.

Oh, Charles.

My heart is and

shall be forever yours.

Will you do me the greatest

honor of becoming my wife?

Yes.

Where in the heavens is Lizzy?

Oh, my dearest.

You are next.

Elizabeth, I must

apologize to you.

Whatever for?

The conversations

I had with Bingley

that dissuaded him

from pursuing Jane.

My words had an effect

I did not intend.

I made the mistake of

assuming your sister

was indifferent to him.

Perhaps rather I was

merely projecting

your indifference to me.

I'm far from indifferent.

I must admit I'm relieved to

hear you say it, as my coming

here today was not solely

in support of Mr. Bingley,

but rather for

intentions of my own.

Oh.

What might those

intentions be, Mr. Darcy?

Will you do me the

honor of being my wife?

[piano music playing]

[tires screeching]

I'm home.

Oh, my... my phone.

Oh, my phone.

Oh, I have missed you so much.

Lady, I'm going to need

you to get out of my cab now.

Wait, wait.

Can you just do me

a teeny tiny favor?

Can you just take me to my

boyfriend's apartment instead?

Scram.

It was real.

Hey.

b*at it.

Some hospitality we

have in the present day.

An app download?

Ugh.

Somehow, this is

worse than the horses.

OK.

And we're off.

[pop music]

(SINGING) Into the chaos.

Into the chaos.

Woo-oh.

Follow my heart

to the other side.

Into the chaos.

No, no, no.

Woo-oh.

Follow my heart

to the other side.

[buzzer]

Ethan, it's me.

Look before you say anything,

OK, just let me get this out.

I don't deserve you

after what I did tonight.

You know what, maybe I

never really did deserve you

because all you've ever

done is put me first

and love me unconditionally.

And just at every turn,

I've just given you maybes.

The truth is as I was

struggling with me, I've just...

I've spent my

whole life escaping

into stories because I've

just been too afraid to be

myself in this one.

And all that's done

is kept me from you.

And I don't even want it to

be my story anymore, you know?

I want it to be ours.

Because I love you,

Ethan, and I just,

I never want you to feel like...

[beeping]

Voicemail maximum time reached.

Seriously?

[quietly crying]

Ethan.

Hi.

How much of that did you catch?

Enough.

I'm so sorry.

You didn't have to apologize.

It wasn't the way I

wanted to find out,

but if you're not

there, you're not there.

No, no, no, no.

See, that's the thing.

I am there.

And I'm here.

You know, I'm here,

and I'm there.

OK.

What are you... where

are your shoes?

I've been on a journey tonight,

like, like really far back,

like further than you can even

imagine, you know, emotionally.

But I just feel like I'm

seeing things so clearly now.

And I've just been so

frustrated with my book,

and I've just been

worried about not being

where I should be in my life.

And, and, oh... look.

Look, I found this.

This is a first edition.

Where... where'd you...

Yeah.

That's the book that

inspired Jane Austen.

Oh.

Well, I guess you found

what you're looking for.

No, see.

I don't... I don't need this.

No.

You're the only inspiration

that I need, OK?

You're... you're

my wish come true.

Ethan, will you marry me?

Maybe.

Wait.

Is that a yes?

Of course.

NARRATOR: Her face

erupted into a smile.

And at long last, they kissed.

And right there, under

a bed of shining stars,

she knew she was finally home.

[applause]

[music playing]