Book clubs are everywhere these days, captivating readers with the imagined lives and loves of ages past. Little wonder, then, that Jane Austen so completely entrances a modern group of friends in the sparklingly witty The Jane Austen Book Club, a Gala Presentation at the 2007 Toronto International Film Festival.

Austen perfected the romantic comedy and continues to be beloved by readers of all ages and nationalities. This joyous film portrays six presentday friends who converge at an "all Jane Austen all the time" book club to devour Austen's six novels.

Each woman in the group has been hurt in some way, and all are confused about love. Sylvia (Amy Brenneman) was left by her husband, Daniel (Jimmy Smits), after thirty-two years and three kids.

Her best friend, Jocelyn (Maria Bello), never married and spends her days as a dog breeder.

Sylvia's daughter, the attractive, unpredictable Allegra (Maggie Grace), has a stormy relationship with her lesbian lover. Middle-aged Bernadette (Kathy Baker) is finally embracing a more relaxed, fun-loving way of life. Prudie (Emily Blunt) has a cold husband but fantasizes about sex with other men. Finally, Grigg (Hugh Dancy), the lone male in the equation, is a sci-filoving computer whiz.

As the book club delves into the novels one by one, the lives of its members also unfold, and parallels appear between fiction and reality. Screen writer Robin Swicord invests her characters' personal tales with genuine tragedy, heartache and triumph, allowing the audience to gradually bond with them.

While Austen fans might get a special joy out of spotting subtle references, you don't have to be among the initiated to fall in love with this funny, touching gem of a film.

To be screened next Monday (Jan. 28) at 4:30, 7:00 and 9:20 p.m., the film runs 105 minutes. Individual tickets available ($8.00 - cash only) at BookLore and the Orangeville Galaxy Cinema (film night only).

Coming February 11: 2 Days in Paris, Canada/ United Kingdom, rated 14A, which had its world premiere at the 2007 Berlin International Film Festival.