rishihanson

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.

Being an avid Bronte fan, especially Emily, I have seen every single adaptation of their novels. While most screen adaptations prove to be rather disgraceful, there are some "gems" which, though not equaling the original source, turn out to be masterpieces in their own right. Such is the case with this wonderful TV adaptation of Wuthering Heights. It follows as closely to the book as possible, and takes great pains to bring the characters and their world to life, and succeeds with flying colours. Robert Cavannah and Orla Brady are near perfect in their portrayal of the two star-crossed lovers Cathy and Heathcliff, and David Skynner, the director, does his best to emulate the chaotic atmosphere in which their love blossoms in the novel. But the most enjoyable part of the movie - and indeed of the novel - is the allusion to the post-Heathcliff Wuthering Heights epitomised by the union of Hareton and Catherine Linton.

This is a dark, dreary, passionate and compelling adaptation - probably the most stirring, and definitely the most faithful to the original - for it shows why we love and continue to love Emily Jane Bronte's masterpiece! I most strenuously recommend it to every Bronte fan - Victorian world doesn't get bleaker than this!