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Jane Eyre [1983]


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The best by far
Review date: 2008-09-13 Rating: 10 out of 10

This is, by far, the best TV/film adaptation of Jane Eyre as it faithfully follows the book.

My only criticism would be that Timothy Dalton is too good-looking to be Rochester. Rochester is not supposed to be good-looking in the conventional way but has a certain 'something' that makes him attractive. There is an accusation that Rochester is too 'violent' in the scene before Jane leaves. If you watch this scene, and go back to the novel it perfectly captures Rochester's agony at the thought of Jane leaving him. It is Jane who has all the control in this scene, as throughout their relationship - 'never was anything at once so frail and so indomitable. A mere reed she feels in my hand!.....'If I tear, rend the slight prison, my outrage will only let the captive loose.....And it is you spirit - with will and energy, and virtue and purity - that I want.'

Zelah Clarke IS Jane. Small, plain, elfin but with so much inner strength and repressed passion. The difficulty with Jane's character is that so much of what Rochester sees in Jane occurs when he is watching her unbeknownst to Jane or to the reader. It is only after the proposal and failed 'marriage' that Rochester tells Jane of how he has watched her all these months, in her dealings with Adele, Mrs Fairfax and the other members of staff.

The most important scene, which most adaptations choose to change is the gypsy scene. Why they do this I do not know. In this version they have stuck rigidly with the book - HURRAH! It is passionate, heart-rending and funny all in one!

Ok, it may be slightly dated with it's sound-stage sets and lighting but if you love the novel you will love this adaptation.


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Reviews


The best version of Jane Eyre
Review date: 2008-09-06 Rating: 10 out of 10

Though the picture quality isn't brilliant on this version, it's by far the best version of Jane Eyre. For starters, very few parts of the book are left out - its very close to the text. It's split into episodes, so it's easy to watch in parts, and the portrayal of Jane and Rochester is amazingly done.
Definitely a must see for any fans of Jane Eyre.

Superb dramatisation.
Review date: 2008-08-24 Rating: 10 out of 10

Having seen a number of adaptations, nothing quite captures the essence of Charlotte Brontë's characters than this BBC production. Whilst taking minimal liberties with the novel, much of its atmosphere is retained through the highly-charged, impeccably polished performances of Zelah Clarke and Timothy Dalton. The dramatisation draws the viewer into a believable recreation of Jane Eyre's world, with a passion lacking in the much more expensive, yet ultimately cold versions. Highly recommended.

Andrew Ford.

Simply wonderful!
Review date: 2008-08-11 Rating: 10 out of 10

I've only read Jane Eyre for the first time this year and fell in love with the book. So I thought it would be great to watch an adaptation of it. The reviews here have helped me decide which version to buy and I haven't regretted my choice one bit.
This is simply a wonderful adaptation and possibly the best dvd I ever bought. Though it may not please those who want big and expensive productions or those who are keen on the dvd extras. This was filmed 25 years ago and sometimes it does feel like you're watching a theatre play, but fantastic acting makes up for it all. Both Zelah Clarke and Timothy Dalton are amazing in their roles and right now I can't imagine anyone else as Jane and Rochester. Their scenes together are so enjoyable and the dialogues include the most important lines from the book. The rest of the cast is well chosen too. I re-watched Jane Eyre quite a few times which usually isn't the case with most dvds I buy.
Obviously I can't compare and judge the other versions because I haven't seen them (only some inserts online); I have to say this version has spoiled me for good. It's classic, it's timeless - if you like the book, buy it and you won't regret it.

deceived, displeased and appalled
Review date: 2008-03-11 Rating: 2 out of 10

I bought this dvd and I regret it greatly: I don't understand why so many people liked it.
I didn't.
I think the actress playing Jane is (nearly) the worst actress I've even seen on screen! Jane is presented as unbalanced: sometimes she's shy with Rochester, not looking him the eyes; and sometimes she's overjoyed over god knows what! I mean: what's got into her?
I'm a huge fan of Jane Eyre, and this interpretation is ...painful to watch!
As for Rochester himself: he's too violent for my taste. and Really, am I the only one who thought that he was on the brink of raping her when she's telling him she cannot "be his"?
I don't think Rochester is THAT violent!
So deceived, displeased and appalled
On the other hand, the version with Ruth Wilson and Toby Stephens is marvellous!

Product Details/Specifications


Actor(s):
Judy Cornwell
Timothy Dalton
Zelah Clarke

Creators:
Timothy Dalton (Primary Contributor)
Zelah Clarke (Primary Contributor)

Director(s):

Recording label: 2 Entertain Video
Manufacturer: 2 Entertain Video
EAN: 5014503157821
Binding: DVD
Number of items: 1
Format: PAL,
Release date: 2006-03-13
Aspect ratio: 1.33:1
Audience rating: Parental Guidance
Region code: 2
Running time: 238 minutes
Theatrical release date: 1983
Language: English (Subtitles For The Hearing Impaired)
Language: English (Original Language)
Language: Portuguese (Original Language)

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