Charlotte Bronte would have been proud!
I have to admit, I was fairly surprised to see how this two hour movie achieved what many TV miniseries just barely managed - the element of belief! Incredible, incredible, incredible! Mia is just perfect as Jane Eyre! Age appropriate, she is believable as the innocent eighteen year old governess who has seen little of the world, but emulates the courage, conviction and righteousness of Greatheart! And Michael Fassbender did what no previous actor filling the shoes of Edward Rochester could do - make him pitiable and yet so adorable and charming! Masculine is the word I think.
In this version of Jane Eyre you actually see the difference between Jane and Rochester - physical, intellectual, social, and emotional - and Mia and Michael do a convincing job of making us see why these two unlikely lovers should fall in love, and their ultimate reconciliation echoes the truth of that love which surmounted those difficulties, made them aware of their faults, brought them together as equals, and promised a happy life thenceforth.
I was delighted to see that minor character were not overlooked, and were given their proper share of importance. A special mention of Judi Dench as Alice Fairfax, whose terrific performance threatened to overshadow the two leads.
Every particular in this film pertaining to the era in which the story takes place has been meticulously observed. From sets to costumes to background score - its flawless! Even Thornfield appears alive and enigmatic! I would urge audiences to give this movie a try. There are hardcore Bronte fans who would detest the movie for everything that makes it superior to other adaptations, but you see, with Brontes, you either hate, or you love passionately. I fall into the latter category with regard to this film.
In this version of Jane Eyre you actually see the difference between Jane and Rochester - physical, intellectual, social, and emotional - and Mia and Michael do a convincing job of making us see why these two unlikely lovers should fall in love, and their ultimate reconciliation echoes the truth of that love which surmounted those difficulties, made them aware of their faults, brought them together as equals, and promised a happy life thenceforth.
I was delighted to see that minor character were not overlooked, and were given their proper share of importance. A special mention of Judi Dench as Alice Fairfax, whose terrific performance threatened to overshadow the two leads.
Every particular in this film pertaining to the era in which the story takes place has been meticulously observed. From sets to costumes to background score - its flawless! Even Thornfield appears alive and enigmatic! I would urge audiences to give this movie a try. There are hardcore Bronte fans who would detest the movie for everything that makes it superior to other adaptations, but you see, with Brontes, you either hate, or you love passionately. I fall into the latter category with regard to this film.
- rishihanson
- Aug 6, 2011