Those seeking a comforting Saturday afternoon drama are in for a delightful surprise with a classic adaptation of Jane Eyre airing on BBC Two today.
Whilst numerous film and television versions of Charlotte Brontë’s gothic romance and bildungsroman have been produced, the most acclaimed recent cinema adaptation screening today was released in 2011, featuring Mia Wasikowska, Michael Fassbender and Jamie Bell.
Critics hailed it as a ‘feast for the eyes’, earning an 85% score on Rotten Tomatoes, whilst Wasikowska’s portrayal of the titular character secured recognition in Time magazine as one of the Top 10 Movie Performances of 2011.
The Brontë masterpiece chronicles Jane Eyre’s journey from her harsh upbringing with her merciless aunt to her position as governess at Thornfield Hall, where she develops romantic feelings for her employer, Edward Rochester.
As a cherished literary work, any adaptation faces the challenge of winning over audiences whilst remaining faithful to the source material, reports the Mirror.
Thankfully, this 2011 interpretation appeared to strike the right balance, with New York Times critic A. O.
Scott praising it as ‘neither a radical updating nor a stiff exercise in middlebrow’.
Rotten Tomatoes critics were equally enthusiastic, with one saying: “Simple and beautiful at once. Stunning photography and great acting. A movie for my heart.”
Another reviewer said: “Totally wonderful smolderingly passionate version of the classic book with perfect casting and marvellous cinematography. A film to watch again and again.”
Another viewer perfectly encapsulated the experience of watching a film during a weekend afternoon in November, adding: “What is it about a period drama that is so perfect on a rainy day/sick day?
“Gorgeous cinematography and lighting – from the warm glow of a fire, to the misty moors, to the golden spring sunshine. Sorrowful wailing of the violin adding to the haunting vibe. Mia and Michael play their parts exceptionally well.”
Whilst no fresh film or television adaptations of Charlotte Bronte’s novels are on the horizon, a significant new version of her sister Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights is currently being produced.
Featuring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi as Cathy and Heathcliffe, the picture is scheduled for release in February next year.
Until then, Bronte enthusiasts will need to switch to BBC Two at 2:50pm today (Sat) to satisfy their craving for a reimagined literary masterpiece.