Starring: Mia Wasikowska, Michael Fassbender, Jamie Bell, Judi Dench

Directed By: Cary Joji Fukunaga

Jane Eyre (2011) is an adaption of the classic literary novel by acclaimed author Charlotte Bronte. This version was scripted by Moira Buffini and directed by film-maker Cary Joji Fukunaga.  This 1847 classic English novel has been made into a classic for the silver screen, but it has also been the subject of scores of television mini-series, including a Broadway musical.

The story remains the same, with a little titillation towards a more realistic view for modern day viewers on this timeless romantic story. The story is about Jane Eyre (Mia Wasikowska) once an orphan who was mistreated in a home and who leaves her past behind and becomes a governess for the wealthy Edward Rochester (Michael Fassbender). The film chronicles her life in flashbacks, detailing the distinct stages of her life – childhood, formal education, her life with the Rivers family and finally her role as a governess.

Jane falls for the handsome but mysterious overbearing master of the Thornfield Estate, Rochester. Just as the romance blossoms between the unlikely pair, Jane comes dangerously close to uncovering a mysterious secret of Rochester. Jane is a spirited girl who intrigues Rochester by speaking her mind, but he has a dark secret that keeps them from getting married. There is eerie suspense as Jane learns the secrets of the old house. While Rochester tries to keep the bizarre secret away from Jane, soon the true colors of Rochester are revealed.

Academy Award - winning composer Dario Marianelli (Atonement, Pride And Prejudice) has written a romantic and moving score as the perfect complement to Jane Eyre.

Dario Marinelli’s Jane Eyre score heavily features a solo violin, recorded for the film by the 2010 Classical Brit Award - winning violinist Jack Liebeck. Known for his gift for capturing the emotional and poignant elements of a story in his music, Marianelli’s score has been well received all over the world for various films he has worked on.

This new film version is well put together, with very good performances from its Wasikowska  and Fassbender. There is also a pleasant score and a gorgeous cinematography. Both sad and beautiful, the story is spellbinding in many ways. Though slightly slow, it’s well paced, with beautiful shots of the English countryside.  Whether you’ve read the book or not, this is a well made film that is worth renting or watching again and again.

Rating: *****

Reviewed By Verus Ferreira