As described in the novella, Lady Susan is directed by «artifice» 12 — the film replicates this, recalling Violet's (Greta Gerwig) comment in Damsels in Distress, «I love cliches and hackneyed expressions of every kind.» (sensesofcinema.com)
Like the first scenario, this also leaves your prospect in the role of damsel in distress or hapless villagers waiting to be saved. (customshow.com)
His much younger love interest, Jenny (Annabelle Wallis), only exists to help develop Cruise's character through her role as damsel in distress. (theyoungfolks.com)