Jane Austen’s Period Drama

In the era of such shows as “Downton Abbey” and “Bridgerton” comes a story that infuses just a little of the time but with a twist….literally, a period. Directed by Julia Aks and Steve Pinder, the short film Jane Austen’s Period Drama makes us wonder how such a natural course for women would be interpreted in a time where such realities were rarely discussed. But what happens when the truth is an issue and to be avoided at all costs? Only hijinks can ensue from here on in!

As Miss Estrogenia Tallbot (Julia Aks) awaits a proposal from Mr. Dickley (Ta’imua) after the breaking off of his engagement to Miss Bumblesnatch, the unthinkable happens: her monthly visitor arrives. While Estrogenia is aware that it is her period, Mr. Dickley assumes otherwise and chaos ensues, especially as he believes that Estrogenia is hurt and requires medical attention. Dickley rushes Estrogenia to her home and advises her sisters and father (Hugo Armstrong) that Estrogenia requires immediate care. However, at home Estrogenia’s family is of no help as her sister Labinia (Samantha Smart) advises her not to divulge the true nature of her bleeding. With the restraints of her station battling it out with telling the truth, Estrogenia must make a decision as to whether she gives her naive suitor an education in female anatomy or keep him in the dark.

Julia Aks and Steve Pinder have created a film that is nothing short of comedic genius meets regency era. Bringing a feminine issue into a time that seems to frown upon women speaking up and being bold works for the storyline. It inserts just right into the style of an Austen-style storyline, if Austen had been bold enough to talk about menstruation. And, frankly, it gives the storyline room to flourish and be humorous. Dickley’s own ignorance to Estrogenia’s monthly plight is endearing but proves that his top-notch education could not have prepared him for the realities of life and nature, particularly that of a woman’s cycle. And even sweeter is when Estrogenia finally explains to her suitor about women’s anatomy and what it entails. At first Dickley appears confused as to what he is hearing, but eventually learns to accept and support his love as she handles her feminine issues.

While the scenes with Estrogenia and Dickley are humorous and touching, one of the funniest scenes is the one between Estrogenia and her sisters Labinia and Vagianna (Nicole Alyse Nelson). Samantha Smart can toe the line of being an assertive woman like Labinia, yet in character reminding her sister that propriety is the only path forward when it comes to her own womanly issues. And, of course, Vagianna’s naivete and youth play into this hesitance just right, the dialogue and plot lending its modern style to a story that feels plucked from Austen’s time period.

How will Dickley adjust to the truth of Estrogenia’s explanation? Hopefully with some understanding and a touch of humilty. For more information on the movie and upcoming screenings, please visit http://www.janeaustensperioddrama.com.