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I never thought I’d be so glad to be done watching Jane Eyre
The film quality is very good, especially when you consider how old it is. There was something amiss in the look of the movie, however. The 70’s intruded in clothing and hairstyles, and even some props. In one of the scenes at Lowood, all of the girls are distinctly seen wearing dresses with long zippers down the back. In the pajama scene when Rochester’s guests assemble in the hall because of the nighttime scream, the 1970’s take over. The women’s robes are all shiny fabric and gauzy necklines.
The dialogue is mostly true to the book, however, there were a few parts that were added or changed. If you’re looking for an adaptation that is most like the book, this would be the movie for you. It is very long and hits on all the major points of the book, sticking quite faithfully to the original plot.
The characters were mostly well done. Adele was charming and likable, and her accent was believable. Rochester was surly, impatient, and commanding. Jayston did a great job in his role as Rochester, and it was easy to see his interest in Jane throughout. Cusack was a fairly good Jane, but I felt there was something lacking in her performance. Maybe it was a flatness in expressing emotion at times. For some reason, I was particularly gratified by the kitchen scene between Jane and St. John’s servant, Hannah.
There were only a couple of things that really bugged me about this movie. The first would be Jane’s somewhat shallow evidence of her attachment to Mr. Rochester. Nothing in her performance really made me believe that she felt strongly about him. The second thing is very trivial. For some reason I couldn’t take my eyes off of Sorcha’s eyebrows. You’ll know what I’m talking about if you watch the movie. It was a distraction to me.
Rated: NR
Rating: 3 Stars
Until next time…
Lori
OTHER JANE EYRE POSTS:
- Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
- Jane Eyre – Movie 1943
- Jane Eyre – Movie 1970
- Jane Eyre – Movie 1996
- Jane Eyre – Movie 1997
- Jane Eyre – Movie 2011
- Jane Eyre – TV Mini-Series 1983
- Jane Eyre – TV Mini-Series 2006
Book Buffoonery 