Jane Eyre
Review by Anthony Morris
|
|
|
Jane Eyre
|
You don't have to do something special to make a decent film out of
one of Charlotte Bronte's novels, but it sure doesn't hurt if you can
tell the story as gorgeously as this version does.
As per usual
from the Bronte sisters (Emily wrote Wuthering Heights), this is a tale
of a strong-willed young woman in a society (Regency England) where
women are expected to be seen not heard and to marry for status and
money over love (windswept moors not optional).
Jane
(Australian Mia Wasikowska) survives a harsh upbringing to become a
governess for the brooding and somewhat mysterious Mr Rochester
(Michael Fassbender).
Despite his cold exterior, love
tentatively blooms – but what is the secret he's keeping that could
ruin their lives forever? It's hardly a secret considering
how many times the novel's been adapted, but what makes this version
stand out is the lush camerawork.
The film looks astonishing,
with vibrant landscapes and authentically gothic and moody interiors,
and coupled with perfectly judged – heightened but not overwrought –
performances from the two leads it's all but impossible not to be drawn
into the story yet again.
Even if you know Jane Eyre off by heart, this version makes it seem new. 4 out
of 5
Jane Eyre
Australian release: 11th August,
2011
Official
Site: Jane Eyre
Cast: Mia Wasikowska, Michael Fassbender, Jamie Bell, Sally Hawkins, Dame Judi Dench
Director: Cary Fukunaga
|
