Jane Eyre (Masterpiece Theatre, 2006)

Amazon.com

You may think the world doesn't need another adaptation of Jane Eyre--but you're wrong. This new and wonderfully lush Masterpiece Theatre version, directed by Susanna White (who directed the equally sumptuous miniseries of Bleak House starring Gillian Anderson), contrasts Jane Eyre's vivid inner life with the harshness of her outer life; both Georgie Henley (The Chronicles of Narnia) as the young Jane and newcomer Ruth Wilson express the inner vitality of the outcast orphan girl whose spirit captures the heart of the rough, charismatic landowner Mr. Rochester (Toby Stephens, Die Another Day). Stephens, it must be said, is far too conventionally handsome for the part, but he makes up for it by capturing Rochester's abrasive and mercurial temperament. (Wilson's looks are perfect; at one moment she seems awkward and homely, at another utterly luminous.) Jane Eyre is so often remade because the story is so potent; this production brings all of the novel's juice and passion to the fore, emphasizing the characters' sensual experience while staying true to the restrictions and mores of the period. All in all, exceptional. --Bret Fetzer

Amazon.com

After a wretched childhood, orphaned Jane Eyre yearns for new experiences. She accepts a governess position at Thornfield Hall, where she tutors a lively French girl named Adele. She soon finds herself falling in love with the brooding master of the house - the passionate Mr. Rochester. Jane gradually wins his heart, but they must overcome the dark secrets of the past before they can find happiness. When Jane saves Rochester from an eerie fire, she begins to suspect that there are many mysteries behind the walls of Thornfield Hall. Her fears are confirmed when Rochester's secret past is revealed, destroying her chance for happiness, and forcing Jane to flee Thornfield. Penniless and hungry, she finds shelter and friendship in the shape of a kind clergyman and his family. But she is soon shocked to uncover the deeply hidden truth of her own past. This lavish and sensual new version of Charlotte Bronte's classic novel is modern and moody, timeless and romantic. Starring Toby Stephens as Mr. Rochester, Ruth Wilson as Jane, and Francesca Annis as Lady Ingram.

Customer Reviews:

An epic masterpiece.......2007-09-11

After reading Jane Eyre, you can't help but setting big expectaions for the new 2006 movie version of it. But I wasn't let down. I laughed, cried, laughed and cried a little more. The setting was amazing. The cast was brilliant. And the pictures were beautiful. You can't help but feel moved by this wonderful lovestory. Because that is what it truly is.

Finally a Jane Eyre without melodrama........2007-09-03

I fell in love with the novel as a pre-teen and have read it over and over through the years. What perfect reading for a blustery fall evening or winter afternoon. I have always been disappointed in the screen versions, and there have been many over the years. The story is full of passion, courage, and strength of character, not only in Rochester, but in Jane as well. This remake FINALLY gives the performance that is worthy of the title. I love it.

A delight!.......2007-08-31

A totally captivating film version of Charlotte Bronte's classic novel. Three things expecially distinguish this interpretation: wonderful acting from the entire cast, particularly the spirited Jane (Ruth Wilson) and the tormented but appealing Rochester (Toby Stephens) (their attraction is totally believable!); outstanding production values and attention to period detail; and a script which misses none of the major plot points of the novel, but immediately engages the viewer by begining with Jane's arrival at Thornfield, and gradually revealing her early life as back story, rather than developing the tale chronologically.

It should be noted that the film omits the explicit Protestant Christian aspects of the novel (and Jane's attendant prejudices), at least directly, while leaving intact Jane's defiantly independent sense of her own worth and her deep sense of what is due to other people. It might be fair to say that this is a fundamental betrayal of the novel--as deeply religious as Jane is--but there is no question that as a film story per se, this was the correct decision.

I would not be surprised to find that this seductive film leads many viewers to read the novel, but it stands on its own as a well-made work of art.

another praise.......2007-08-23

One of the great little movie's you'll enjoy and your wife'll enjoy and you'll be disappointed when it's over. Just buy adn let yourself be immersed in romantic entertainment!

A good adaption.......2007-08-20

I really enjoyed this adaption although the time spent on her childhood and the time away from Rochester I tended to get a bit bored with. I thought Ruth Wilson did a wonderful job.

Average customer rating:

I love this movie
I've only seen this version but I think it is perfect
Jane Eyre DVD
The Best Mr. Rochester and Jane, and Faithful to the Book!
1983 Jane Eyre

Jane Eyre (BBC, 1983)
Starring: Timothy Dalton , and Zelah Clarke
Director: Julian Amyes
Manufacturer: BBC Warner
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Drama | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Miniseries | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( J ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000784WMW
Release Date: 2005-04-19

Amazon.com

Jane Eyre--the mother of all gothic romances--gets abundant passion in this 11-episode BBC miniseries. Young Sian Pattenden is wonderfully willful and impetuous; viewers will immediately identify with the child Jane as she fights against ill-treatment at the home of her aunt and at boarding school. It's a shame to see her grow up into Zelah Clarke--until Clarke asserts her own quiet yet fierce spirit. The plot really starts rolling when Jane takes a position as governess at Thornfield, a handsome estate owned by the imperious and tortured Mr. Rochester (Timothy Dalton, a few years before he became James Bond). From there, this 1983 adaptation rips through the perilous highs and devastating lows of Charlotte Bronte's powerful novel, in which the courtship of these two prickly personalities gets twists and turns galore. Though the visual style is a bit pedestrian, the well-crafted script and skillful performances grow more gripping with every episode. The necessary feverishness springs from simple yet effective means, like macabre laughter floating down the halls of Thornfield. The scenes between Clarke and Dalton crackle with chemistry; Bronte fans will not be disappointed. --Bret Fetzer

Customer Reviews:

I love this movie.......2007-09-12

I love this movie. Unlike the newer, American version, it doesn't hack the book to pieces. All my favorite parts of the book are there and it is so wonderful and romantic. Timothy Dalton is too handsome to make a perfect version of Mr. Rochester, but as if being handsome were a crime.... It makes it a very beautiful love story.

I've only seen this version but I think it is perfect.......2007-09-05

Last night I finished re-watching "Jane Eyre" (1983), the BBC mini-series adapted from Charlotte Bronte's Gothic romance novel which is deservingly a classic of English literature with Timothy Dalton (my favorite James Bond) as Mr. Edward Rochester and Zelah Clarke, as Jane Eyre, a poor orphaned 18-year-old girl, a governess at Mr. Rochester's estate, Thornfield. "Jane Eyre" has been one of my most beloved books since I was an 11-years-old girl and the friend of mine gave it to me with the words, "This book is amazing" and so it was and I have read it dozens of times and I am still not tired of it. Its beautiful language, refined, fragrant, and surprisingly fresh, the dialogs, and above all, two main characters, and the story of their impossible love have attracted many filmmakers. "Jane Eyre" has been adapted to TV and big screen many times, 18 according to IMDb. The actors as famous and marvelous as Joan Fontaine and Orson Welles, William Hurt and Charlotte Gainsbourg, George C. Scott and Susannah York, Ciarán Hinds and Samantha Morton have played the couple that had overcome hundreds of obstacles made by society, laws, religion, by the differences in age, backgrounds, experiences, and by the fateful mistakes that would hunt one for many years. Of all these films I've only seen one, 300 minutes long BBC version from 1983 that follows the novel closely and where Timothy Dalton who frequently plays dark, brooding characters does not just played Edward Rochester brilliantly and with class, he WAS Mr. Rochester - sardonic, vibrant, the force of nature, powerful, passionate, sexy, and tormented master of Thornfield. Zelah Clarke was also convincing as sweet, gentle, intelligent and strong Jane who feels deeply and is full of passion mixed with clear reasoning, and quiet but firm willpower.

Jane Eyre DVD.......2007-08-23

This is a great movie and follows the book very well. Timothy Dalton and Zelah Clark are perfect in their parts as Rochester and Jane. Unfortunately the DVD we received has a fuzzy look to it. It looks like it was a copy of a copy of a copy. It is watchable, but a little annoying. That is the reason I gave it three stars instead of five.

The Best Mr. Rochester and Jane, and Faithful to the Book! .......2007-08-13

I decided to borrow four screen versions of "Jane Eyre" from the library to find my favorite. I watched a 1996, a 1997, a 2006, and this one. Timothy Dalton transforms from a haughty, bitter Rochester to one who has fallen in love with the plain, but dimpled Jane. He portrays the constant struggle going on within Rochester, and yet conveys the boyish love he is feeling for his "little Janet". Yes, Mr. Dalton is too attractive for Mr. Rochester, but plays him wonderfully. Zelah Clarke annoyed me the first time I watched it because she seemed to pause so long before speaking her lines. Perhaps this was the director's fault. Anyhow, she still gives a life to Jane that makes her real to me, although she is not as young as Jane should be. Several lines are directly from the book. I admit I don't watch the episodes with Jane as a child repeatedly as I do her adult years. Remember this version is at least 5 hours long, so you have to be a true Charlotte Bronte/Jane Austen type fan to love it as I do. It definitely brings the most life to the book if you are teaching "Jane Eyre", even if you only show some of the episodes and not all. The other members of the cast are equally outstanding.

1983 Jane Eyre.......2007-07-05

If you had to do a book report on Jane Eyre but didn't want to read it, this is the movie to see. Very acurate comparison with the book, but a little lacking in imagination as far as art direction goes. The acting is fair. Die-hard Jane Eyre fans would love this movie. My biggest complaint with it is the fact that, as it is a television series, there is a break every 20 minutes where the credits are given and the chapter displayed which makes it even longer. If you are looking for good cinematography, script and acting, my favorite is the 2006 Masterpiece Theatre version. It doesn't follow the book as closely, but it is a beuatifully done film.

Average customer rating:

Not very enjoyable
A Very Successful Adaptation of Favorite Novel -
To Eyre is Human
Jane Eyre
Competent adptation of Bronte novel...but uneven melodrama...

Jane Eyre
Starring: Orson Welles , and Joan Fontaine
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Classics | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Drama | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $14.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( J ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000MGBLHS
Release Date: 2007-04-24

Amazon.com

Made two years after Citizen Kane, this 1943 version of Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre sure looks like star Orson Welles muscled his way behind the camera much of the time. (In fact, costar Joan Fontaine--who plays the title character--has maintained that Welles methodically did just that every day on the set.) Not that the film's official director was a hack: Robert Stevenson, who later had a busy career at Disney making numerous live-action hits for the studio, such as Mary Poppins, gets the credit. But there's no mistaking Welles's masterful hand in the film's bold and creative look, and there's no getting away from his enigmatic charisma as Rochester, the widower who takes in Jane as a governess to his daughter. An engrossing, gorgeous film, there's even a small role for Elizabeth Taylor at the beginning as Jane's unlucky, doomed friend at a cruel boarding school. --Tom Keogh

Description

Jane Eyre secures a job as governess to the child (Margaret O'Brien) of the troubled Edward Rochester, sire of Thornfield, a mysterious English manor. When she hears strange cries and noises from a distant wing, her inquiries are rebuffed. As time goes on, Jane and her master fall in love and decide to marry. But their halted when a visitor suddenly reveals the shocking secret that Rochester has kept for years.

Customer Reviews:

Not very enjoyable.......2007-09-15

I'm a huge fan of Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre, so when I heard about the Orson Welles adaptation, I eagerly hunted down a copy of the film. Unfortunately, I was extremely disappointed with the film. Not only were characters from the novel completely omitted (ie St. John and his sisters, Miss Temple) but so were important scenes. The movie felt rushed and disconnected.

In addition, I didn't think there was any chemistry between Joan Fontaine's Jane and Orson Welles' Rochester. Welles' scenes mainly consist of him glowering, glaring and brooding at the camera. Fontaine's Jane Eyre is a weak tempered, shy violet. Both actors fail to evoke the passion of Bronte's characters.

It's not that I can't appreciate an adaptation. I consider the 1940 Greer Garson/Laurence Olivier version of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice one of my favorite film adaptations even though it deviates considerably from the original text. This version of Jane Eyre, however, was just horrible.

The best version of Jane Eyre that I've ever seen is the 1983 BBC tv miniseries starring Timothy Dalton. Dalton may be too handsome for the role, but it's the most faithful adaptation and the acting is superb. No one has ever come closer to capturing the essence of Rochester on screen; Dalton's that good in the role. Another good version is the 2006 BBC version starring Ruth Wilson, whose passionate version of Jane is truly memorable.

A Very Successful Adaptation of Favorite Novel - .......2007-09-14

Orson Welles plays Edward Rochester, the moody and mysterious employer of governess Jane Eyre in this earlier adaptation of Charlotte Bronte's Gothic novel that takes place in the first half of the 19th Century. Welles also did enough work behind the scenes and the production company offered him a producer credit, which he turned down. Nevertheless, the film has his trademarks all over. Just one look at the Thornfield Hall, the ominous and gloomy, dominating the screen Rochester's family estate that hides terrifying secrets or the first sound of Bernard Herrmann's score, the moody atmosphere, unusual angles - all unmistakably point at the "Citizen Cane's" creator. 97 minutes long Orson Welles/Joan Fontaine version skips some novel's plot lines but the film works nicely thanks to skillfully adapted screenplay by John Houseman and Aldous Huxley. Orson Welles was a great choice for passionate, strong, charismatic and tormented Mr. Rochester. Joan Fontaine was too attractive and too meek for strong-willed and fiercely intelligent Jane but there was undeniable chemistry between her and Welles.

This 20th Century Fox production also stars 7 years old Margaret O'Brien, charming as little Adele Varance and 12-years-old un-credited Elizabeth Taylor, already strikingly beautiful, who'd break your heart as Jane's first and unforgettable friend Helen Burns in the dismal Lowood school.

Of four films based on "Jane Eyre" that I've seen, Welles/Fontaine film is the shortest and the only B/W. IMO, it belongs to the best adaptations and it is my second favorite after Dalton/Clarke version.

4.5/5

To Eyre is Human.......2007-08-19

I originally read the book, Jane Eyre, when I was an eighth grade student.
I loved the story then, and, I still do now. I have watched many versions of the movie, but my favorite has always been the Orson Welles-Joan Fontaine one. I feel that the original story line of Jane Eyre has been the template for many gothic tales, then, and now. The movie is still just as eerie and mysterious today as it probably was when it was made. The acting is superb. I highly recommend this version of the movie to anyone who is interested in watching "classic" movies. "Citizen Kane" is generally rated as number 1 of all the movies, but I truly believe that "Jane Eyre" should be way up on the list.

Jane Eyre.......2007-08-13

The 1944 Orson Welles/Joan Fontaine version of the Charlotte Bronte classic, Jane Eyre, continues to be a riveting experience. Although there have been other fine and memorable versions since, this one remains my all time favorite. Orson Welles and Joan Fontaine will always remain the signal Edward Rochester and Jane Eyre in my opinion and in my mind's eye. Jane Eyre.

Competent adptation of Bronte novel...but uneven melodrama..........2007-07-29

Watching 'Jane Eyre' is like watching two films. The first part seems so far removed from what follows and is easily the best part of the movie. We see a young Jane (Peggy Ann Garner) being placed by her cruel aunt in an orphanage run by wicked Mr. Brocklehurst (Henry Daniell at his most chilling). One of her schoolmates is a very young Elizabeth Taylor as Helen Burns, long dark curls and eyelashes revealing her to be very beautiful, even at an early age. And the wonderful John Sutton is the doctor who witnesses the brutal treatment of the girls at the school. All of this is conveyed in a brooding series of scenes, lit with low-key lighting and many atmospheric effects backed by Bernard Herrmann's moody background score.

The second part of the story involving the mature Jane Eyre (Joan Fontaine) is less successful in keeping with the richness of detail shown earlier. Furthermore, Joan Fontaine is never fully convincing as the plain governness, demure and docile to an irritating degree and never developing the spine of steel Jane's character demands.

Instead, she is completely dominated by Orson Welles--overacting to the nth degree in a very theatrical manner as Mr. Rochester--and the story is sent reeling off course to an unsatisfying conclusion. The structure of the film is so offset by the impressive first half-hour that the second part seems artificial by comparison.

Some excellent black and white photography by George Barnes cannot conceal the artificiality of studio sets. All of the supporting performances are well acted. As usual, Agnes Moorehead does an outstanding job.

Summing up: The first half is brilliant. Joan Fontaine seems to be aware that she's being overshadowed by Welles in one of his most florid roles. Obviously, he had a hand in the direction.

Average customer rating:

The worst Jane Eyre remake
Great Story, Great Actors, Less Than Great Movie
Wonderfully Made Production.......Truly a Excellent Film
Very beautifully done!
We are truly devoted

Jane Eyre (1996)
Starring: Anna Paquin , Nic Knight , Nicola Howard , Sasha Graff , and Fiona Shaw
Director: Franco Zeffirelli
Manufacturer: Miramax
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( J ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B00007K02F
Release Date: 2003-02-04

Amazon.com

Franco Zeffirelli (Romeo and Juliet) and screenwriter Hugh Whitemore strip away a bit of the familiar romanticism of Charlotte Brontë's novel and come up with a more plain but somehow quite interesting film adaptation. Charlotte Gainsbourg (The Cement Garden) makes for an oddly appealing but deliberately unlovely version of Jane (previous actresses have included Susannah York and Joan Fontaine), and William Hurt is excellent as an equally revised Rochester, brusque and self-involved but not the totem of torment and charisma we've seen before. The story clings to the usual chapters in the book, but with Zeffirelli shaping the principal characters to reflect their cautious perceptions of one another--rather than to a Hollywood notion of grand passion--the film has a wonderful accessibility. Great support from Joan Plowright, Billie Whitelaw, Anna Paquin, and the rest of the cast. --Tom Keogh

Description

Academy Award(R)-winner William Hurt (1985 Best Actor -- KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN; SMOKE) leads an all-star cast in this story of passion and intrigue! Jane Eyre (Charlotte Gainsbourg) is a young woman whose will to overcome a life of hardship leads her into a passionate romance with a handsome -- and mysterious -- gentleman (Hurt). Swept up in the possibility of a happy new life, Jane is shattered when terrible, untold secrets from his past are revealed, threatening to tear her and her lover apart forever! Also featuring the talents of Anna Paquin (THE PIANO), Joan Plowright (ENCHANTED APRIL), and sexy Elle MacPherson (SIRENS), this enduring tale has captivated moviegoers everywhere, just as Charlotte Bronte's classic best-seller has entertained for generations!

Customer Reviews:

The worst Jane Eyre remake.......2007-08-31

After reading the book Jane Eyre, I decided to watch every remake of the film that I could find - at least half a dozen. By far the best is the newest one with Rochester as Toby Stephens (what a marvelous flirtatious exchange between Rochester and Jane); another favorite is the Timothy Dalton and Zelah Clarke production. But this one with William Hurt (who I always liked as an actor) is so bad that it makes me cringe.

There is absolutely no chemistry or romance conveyed between Charlotte Gainsborgh and William Hurt; I could not feel or believe that they loved each other. The performances of both fall flat, flat, flat. I find myself even wondering if the two actors did not even like each other or connect in real life but felt compelled, due to signing their contracts, to play the role of lovers. But neither succeeded in summoning up any real feeling - it just doesn't work!

Joan Plowright is excellent as always, and Charlotte Gainsborgh does make a believable Jane Eyre, but there is no real fire in her, and as a result her outspoken moments feel heavy, as if she were depressed and exhausted and pretending to an energy she does not possess.

Another complaint about the film, probably not obvious to those who haven't read the book, is that the story is distorted and about 1/3 of it omitted. What happened to Jane's fleeing of Rochester and landing at the home of strangers whom take her in and with whom she lives for half a year? Perhaps because of time limitations, Sintjen's role was altered in this film, and the fire was portrayed as Jane was leaving Rochester, and not many months later.

In any case, if you're going to watch one version of Jane Eyre, I highly suggest it not be this one!

Great Story, Great Actors, Less Than Great Movie.......2007-05-29

Jane Eyre is a novel I adored in high school. I never sought out the movie since I felt it would taint the way the story sits in my memory. However, the recent release of Charlotte Gainsbourg's 5:55 album sparked my interest in her past artistic works, which are mostly films. I saw The Science of Sleep, which was awesome. Jane Eyre seemed like it'd be good, but the storyline seemed rushed, which was pretty annoying. I could sense the vision was there, but for whatever reason it wasn't executed properly. Oh well, no more novel-based movies for me.

Wonderfully Made Production.......Truly a Excellent Film.......2007-05-21

Now I must confess that I have never read Jane Eyre (Athought I have brought the book a few weeks ago and plan to read it soon) so I can not comment on Whether it is faithful to Charlotte Bronte novel.
Athough I have seen the 1983 BBC Production, the 1997 A&E Production (borrowed from the Library) but this 1996 Production is the one that I really enjoyed the most and the only one that I brought.
The 1983 BBC Production was in my option made on a small budget. When you are watching it, one feels like they are watching a play. I really did not enjoy it at all.
The 1997 A&E Production was an improvement on the 1983 Production however Ciaran Hinds as Mr Rochester I did not enjoy. It seemed as many other reviews have commented he spends most of the production yelling and shouting at Jane.
But on the other hand Samantha Morton as Jane Eyre was likable. I think the main reason I could'nt come to enjoy and like this version is performance by Ciaran Hinds as Mr Rochester.
Now the 1996 production I enjoyed watching it so much so that I have seen it four times already and I only got the DVD from Amazon on Friday 18th May.
Franco Zeffirelli has done a wonderful job. From the cast to the locations to the costumes to the music. Everthing in this version was first rate.
I much perfer William Hurt performance as Mr Rochester. One can see that he is not a happy man and he is diffcult to understand but he does not spend the whole production yelling or shouting.
Anna Paquin is a great talent and she is amazing as the young Jane.
Charlotte Gainsbourg plays the adult Jane. From the three versions I have seen her performance was the one I really enjoyed the most and one could sense what she is feeling.
One of many scenes that I enjoyed was when Jane goes back to see her Aunt Reed as she is dying and requested to see Jane.
Jane offers her Aunt forgivness for all that she has done to her. She pulls away from Jane. Jane then replys "Love me or Hate me as you will, you have my Full and Free Forgivness" What a prowerful message.
To the people that have not seen this movie I say make up your own mind about this Production and dont base you decision on other reviews. If I did that I would of missed out on something wonderful.
To the people that are looking for family friendly production. This is one of them but I think that your children need to be a certain age before they can watch it.
This is a clean movie about Adversaries, Love and Forgivness. I found this Production of Jane Eyre a very lovely sweet movie one that I am happy to have in my own personal collection.
I can not recommend this movie highly enough. This is a must have.

Very beautifully done!.......2007-05-21

It isn't as close to the book as the BBC version is, but if you want a version that is more theatrical and dazzling, then go ahead and buy it.

The film quality is perfect and the music really puts out a lot of feeling and passion. I was quite moved by the childhood part.
However, in the first half of the movie, it has a good godly outlook on life and I don't feel that the producers kept that feeling going throughout Jane's adulthood. Zefirelli has reduced 'Jane Eyre' into a mere romance movie.
Joan Plowright said that 'Jane Eyre' was like a fairy tale, a "Cinderella story in reality." She is so wrong. It's more than just a romance novel, it promotes standing up for what's right even when the pressures are hard, practicing what you preach and not looking down on other people because of their station.
That's about the only thing I'm dissiatisfied with in this film. Every actor did a wonderful job-only William Hurt is a little stiff. Go ahead and buy it. It's worth the price.

We are truly devoted.......2007-04-14

"Jane Eyre" seems like a slightly odd choice for the great Franco Zeffirelli, but he turned out a slow if excellent adaptation, full of exquisite scenery and picturesque gothic flavour. But what really makes it brilliant is a virtuoso performance by William Hurt as the tortured hero, even if his costar lacks the necessary passion.

Jane Eyre (Anna Paquin) was raised by a nasty aunt-by-marriage, and later taken to a cruel minister's boarding school for girls, where she was humiliated and treated badly. Years later, the grown Jane (Charlotte Gainsbourg) leaves the school behind, taking a job as a governess to a little French girl, at a remote Gothic castle owned by the brooding Mr. Rochester (Hurt).

But there are mysteries at the castle -- mad laughter can be heard from the upstairs, and Rochester is tormented by difficulties that have made him "hard as an India-rubber ball." Yet Jane still falls in love with her fiery, reclusive employer, and he falls in love with her strange, strong ways -- until the nastiest secret of his life comes out, and threatens to separate them forever.

Somehow I never expected this classic gothic novel to be the sort of thing Zeffirelli would have done. But he does an excellent job bringing Charlotte Bronte's story to life, and giving it an unearthly beauty -- lots of misty countrysides, sunlit graveyards, and a looming castle up on a hill like a medieval fortress.

It's rather slow-moving -- Jane's nasty childhood takes up a lot of time, for instance. But Zeffirelli builds up suspense and suppressed feeling, all of which climaxes in a literally burning finale -- a magnificently taut and terrifying scene. And he adapts Bronte's prose into intense, vivid dialogue ("Even she is better off here than she would be in a lunatic asylum, but I have spent the last fifteen years in TORMENT!").

Gainsbourg has the required unearthly plainness that Jane Eyre needs, but she lacks the essential intensity and passion that the character possesses. During the movie's most intense scenes, when Rochester's secret is revealed, she doesn't even blink -- she just stands and stares. A young Anna Paquin has a lot more hidden fire early on.

But William Hurt is simply stellar as Rochester -- he's not young or handsome, but he has the dark, sardonic, embittered, sorrowful thing down to an art. He's especially great in the final lap, where he plays Rochester with all his bitter anger and love unleashed, and Rochester after a fire ravages his home. The final scenes are absolutely exquisite.

The movie suffers from some lackluster acting at time, but Hurt's performance and Zeffirelli's direction make "Jane Eyre" an excellent, watchable adaptation. Definitely a good watch.

Average customer rating:

Fierce Creature
The book's Jane Eyre - Not so much
my favorite version
The best
Best Jane but very MEAN Rochester!

Jane Eyre (A&E, 1997)
Starring: Deborah Findlay , Laura Harling , Joanna Scanlan , Ben Sowden , and Barbara Keogh
Director: Robert Young (III)
Manufacturer: A&E Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Period Piece | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

( C ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0767020294
Release Date: 1999-10-26

Amazon.com

The fascinating British actress Samantha Morton stars as the titular heroine in this provocative version of Jane Eyre, based on Charlotte Bronte's oft-filmed, 1847 novel. The familiar contours of Bronte's story are all here: Jane, the unhappy orphan, grows up to become governess at Thornfield, a gloomy estate owned by the imperious and worldly, but curiously desperate, Mr. Rochester (Ciarán Hinds). While the latter's grasping attentions stir the inexperienced young woman, the gothic goings-on at Thornfield suggest layers of unwholesome secrecy in Rochester's life. Most productions of Jane Eyre carefully reflect Bronte's absorbing balance between romance, horror, and Jane's psychological passage to adulthood. But this 1997 television movie is interesting for its near-reckless emphasis on Jane and Rochester's mutual obsession and galloping jealousies. The dramatic strategy throws off the story's overall tone, but such problems are worth it to see Morton and Hinds explore Jane Eyre's darkest possibilities. --Tom Keogh

Product Description

Charlotte Bront s moving story of the improbable love between a young governess and her mysterious and tragic employer is one of the towering classics of English literature. A&E brints this beloved tale to life in a brilliant production starring Samantha Morton (A&E s EMMA) and Ciaran Hinds (Persuasion, A&E s IVANHOE).After a wretched childhood as an orphan, Jane Eyre arrives at Thornfield Hall to take over her duties as the governess. She soon falls in love with the brooding owner of Thornfield, Mr. Rochester. Jane gradually wins his heart, but they must first overcome the dark secrets of his past before they can truly find happiness.Directed by Robert Young (Fierce Creatures) and filmed entirely on location in England, CHARLOTTE BRONT S JANE EYRE is an exquisite adaptation of one of the most beloved stories of all time--now in the crystal clear digital clarity of DVD.

Format: DVD MOVIE

Customer Reviews:

Fierce Creature.......2007-09-16

I think that Samantha Morton's Jane Eyre in Robert Young's 1997 TV adaptation of the great novel, could've been the best screen Jane ever. Morton was 20 years old and the closest in age to the young orphaned governess, childlike in the appearance but strong willed, serene yet very intelligent with acute sense of right or wrong. Two years prior to her Oscar nominated role as a mute girl in Woody Allen's "Sweet and Lowdown", Morton proved that she could say a lot by the mere look at her face, by her impressive and speaking eyes alone. It is sad that the film took too many liberties with the book and not only in omitting many important plot lines in order to fit in its 108 minutes length, but with too many changes to the very nature of the novel's two main characters and their relationship. Jane in the scenes with her employer is sometimes too demanding and not as tactful as she is in the book. The changes are especially obvious in Mr. Edward Rochester as he was played by Ciaran Hinds. Hinds is a talented, intense actor but I can't agree or like his reading and interpreting of Mr. Rochester's character. Some his scenes in the film made me cringe. Mr. Edward Rochester of the novel was not yelling or rather barking brute - it was difficult for me to believe that Jane Eyre would come to love so much. I also was unpleasantly surprised with Mr. Rochester openly displaying his affection for Adele. This manifestation was against the logic of his character.

2.5/5

The book's Jane Eyre - Not so much.......2007-08-20

I have it in my Jane Eyre collection and the chemistry is not believable at all. Ciaran Hinds is barking at her the entire time. There is no inflection in his voice that would give way to you believing he had a soft spot for her on more than one occasion. He also didn't have Mr. Rochester's dark wit. If you want to see Ciaran Hinds in a wonderful movie, see Jane Austen's "Persuasion."

Samantha Morton, although a great actress here, played Jane far too impertinent for her position, the era and most importantly for the post-Helen Jane who had a gentle spirit that made Mr. Rochester drawn to her in the first place.

I was glad to see the Bertha portrayal was very close to the book in this one as well as the 83' version. Unlike, the most recent Masterpiece version that had Bertha looking like she could step out of Thornfield, put on a gown and walk the red carpet.

If you want to see a great and TRUE adaptation of Charlotte Bronte's "Jane Eyre," watch the Timothy Dalton/Zelah Clarke version which still is powerful even after 24 years. Timothy Dalton is the book's tumultous, playful, introspective and passionate Mr. Rochester. Zelah Clarke plays Jane perfectly as unworldly and innocent and knowing her "station" so to speak, but also having her own mind. The 83' version wasn't Hollywood's version, it was Bronte's version.

my favorite version.......2007-05-25

BBC has filmed a couple of versions (a 248 minute job in 1973, and a 311-minute version ten years later) of "Jane Eyre" before. Due to their greater length, both of those are much more closely stitched to the text. If you're a stickler for fidelity, you'll probably want to direct your attention thither.

But for me, the Robert Young version from 1997 is easily my favorite. At 108 minutes, it's sadly abridged, but the more vigorous pace and, more vitally, the sparkling performance on the part of the lead actress, Samantha Morton, more than make up for this defect.

The ending is guaranteed to plaster a smile on your face for the rest of the day.

The best.......2007-05-07

Ciaran Hinds and Samantha Morton are the perfect Jane and Edward - I am not sure the people that wrote the script read the book too closely but they were perfect - the way Jane talked when they were under the trees and she was leaving was exactly what I would have wanted to say in that day and time - the other jane's including the book do not really address the real issue as is done in this movie.

Best Jane but very MEAN Rochester!.......2007-04-25

This is the FAST FOOD version of Jane Eyre!!! Still it is quite entertaining. Music was very good, much better than the BBC 1983 version. This Jane is the BEST Jane I have seen so far. She is an incredible actress who portrays all of Jane's emotions. I am disturbed by so much change in the wordings though. Also I found myself disliking this Mr. Rochester because he SCREAMS all the times. ICK! He definitely looks over 20 years older than Jane. The best Rochester is the PBS version. This movies is still worth a look for its entertaining value!

A&E Literary Classics - The Romance Collection Megaset (Pride and Prejudice / Emma / Victoria & Albert / Tom Jones / Jane Eyre / Lorna Doone / Ivanhoe / The Scarlet Pimpernel)

Average customer rating:

Simply Terrific!
Doe's anybody know if this collection have spanish subtitles?
A Strong Compilation
wonderful set
Buy it for your wife!

A&E Literary Classics - The Romance Collection Megaset (Pride and Prejudice / Emma / Victoria & Albert / Tom Jones / Jane Eyre / Lorna Doone / Ivanhoe / The Scarlet Pimpernel)
Starring: Colin Firth , Jennifer Ehle , David Bamber , Crispin Bonham-Carter , and Anna Chancellor
Director: Simon Langton , Diarmuid Lawrence , and John Erman
Manufacturer: A&E Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Drama | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video

( A ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B0000687BO
Release Date: 2002-07-30

Product Description

The exquisite push and pull of Darcy and Elizabeth's courtship in Pride & Prejudice. The rollicking adventures and bawdy conquests of Tom Jones. The knightly pageantry and unshakable honor of Ivanhoe. A&E's magnificent productions of timeless classics have set a new standard for literary adaptations. And now, eight perennial favorites are available together for the first time in this extraordinary DVD set.

Unforgettable performances from top stars, masterful screenplays, and unmatched production values make A&E Literary Classics: The Romance Collection a must-have addition to the library of any fan of intelligent, sophisticated entertainment. Like no other films ever made, these lavish realizations capture every nuance of the celebrated stories that have captivated generations of readers.

System Requirements:
Color, Approx. 30 hours total + extras

Format: DVD MOVIE

Customer Reviews:

Simply Terrific!.......2007-05-05

You will just love these, especially if you love the classics. A&E does an awesome job...don't hesitate to buy these! Although they are all wonderful, my favorites are Pride & Predjudice and Jane Eyre.

Doe's anybody know if this collection have spanish subtitles?.......2007-04-12

Anybody knows if this collection have spanish subtitles?

A Strong Compilation.......2006-07-13

I bought this set for my retired Mom, on the strength of the Pride and Prejudice. Much to my delight, I found that we enjoyed the lesser known titles like Lorna Doone far more.

wonderful set.......2006-02-02

I bought this set for my teenaged daughter - who really enjoys period films - she, I and my husband have all enjoyed them immensely. The Scarlet Pimpernel is great fun and this is the best Pride and Prejudice ever. It's great to have these to lend out to friends as well.

Buy it for your wife!.......2005-10-24

My wife loves Jane Austen, and this collection includes a version of Pride and Prejudice widely considered the best one. I bought these for her as a gift, not realizing how much I would enjoy them.
For the husband that can get past the stigma of watching Victorian British films, this can be a really enjoyable collection. I've even shed some tears watching these with her (except for Tom Jones, we're not big fans of that one).
This is a very good collection.

Average customer rating:

Jane Eyre
Worst DVD Quality I've ever seen
worst quality DVD ever
Great production, but low quality DVD
Excellent version with beautiful music!

Jane Eyre (1971)
Starring: Ian Bannen , Peter Blythe , Peter Copley , Constance Cummings , and Michele Dotrice
Director: Delbert Mann
Manufacturer: Direct Source Label
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Period Piece | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Drama | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

4-for-3 Art House & International | 4-for-3 DVD | Stores | DVD | Video

4-for-3 Drama | 4-for-3 DVD | Stores | DVD | Video

4-for-3 All DVDs | 4-for-3 DVD | Stores | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( J ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B0007R4TAS
Release Date: 2004-04-01

Customer Reviews:

Jane Eyre.......2007-07-12

I would like to give this 5 stars since this is my favorite version of the classic, but the quality of the transfer to DVD is so bad that I had a hard time watching it. It is really sad to see such a good film with lines running through the picture and also problems with the sound track. I certainly hope that some day there will be a much better transfer of this version made.

Worst DVD Quality I've ever seen.......2007-06-22

It looks like it was copied from a very old VHS tape. Lots of lines running through it, and horrible splicing in places. I guess for $4.99, you get what you pay for. What made it worse was that you could tell at one time the original must have been awesome. Other than the DVD quality, the movie was good..though not my favorite version.

worst quality DVD ever.......2007-04-12

The film would be interesting and the acting is good, but there are lines streaking the film and odd bursts of green color and the general color is faded and there are skips in the film as well. It is so bad it is hard to watch. Amazon sent me a second copy and it was just as bad in exactly the same way. It didn't seem to be worth it to bother again for the $5 cost of the DVD and I like Amazon too much to want to charge them for the postage. I have never received a DVD with such awful quality.

Great production, but low quality DVD.......2007-02-25

This is a fine story with great characters & solid acting. The scenery is terrific. But, the quality of the DVD is poor, as it seems to have been made from a poor quality film, with some skips in the dialogue, and a verticle line running through the DVD in certain spots. However, the inexpensive price somewhat offsets the poor quality of the DVD.

Excellent version with beautiful music!.......2007-02-08

Not the best version of the novel but certainly one of the best. Scott and York are superb and the music is easily one of the most beautiful and memorable made for any TV film. Scott brings an appropriate sense of danger and anger to the role while York makes Jane into a strong, thoughtful, intelligent woman instead of a mousy, passive servant. I highly recommend this version, especially to those whose imaginations are broader and deeper than those who can't handle production values that are not state-of-the-art.

Average customer rating:

Probably only for the die-hard fan.
The best screen adaptation of Charlotte Brontë's immortal novel, hands down!
If you are a Jane Eyre fan - a must see
The Definitive Version
Very Enjoyable Adaptation

Jane Eyre (BBC, 1973)
Starring: Sorcha Cusack , Michael Jayston , Susan Jameson , Jean Harvey (III) , and John Phillips (VI)
Director: Joan Craft
Manufacturer: Acorn Media
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

Miniseries | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

( J ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000FS9FG2
Release Date: 2006-07-25

Description

After a childhood that would have broken weaker girls, Jane Eyre finds a respectable position as governess to the ward of the enigmatic Mr. Rochester. Twenty years her senior, brusque, and hardened by loss, Mr. Rochester finds his spirited new employee strangely bewitching. Despite the soc