Jane Eyre (2011) Movie Review

There have been a number of movie, musical and television versions of the classic story, Jane Eyre over the years.  The story Jane Eyre was originally written by Charlotte Bronte and was first published in 1847.

In the 2011 version, Jane Eyre is played by Australian Mia Wasikowska and Edward Fairfax Rochester is played by Michael Fassbender.  The movie also features Judi Dench as the old Mrs. Fairfax.

The movie is a romantic drama that follows the story of nineteen year old Jane Eyre, from her childhood through to becoming a young woman.  At a young age, Jane’s nasty aunt sends her away to a strict girl’s school.  She grows up to become a very quiet, serious and plain person.  Jane leaves the school to begin her job as a governess.  Soon after meeting his new employee, the grumpy Mr. Rochester becomes fascinated with the new governess.  Soon after, strange things begin to happen within the house that cannot be explained, leaving Jane feeling anxious and scared.  The story has an interesting twist that you won’t expect.

It starts off a bit slow but once it gets into it, the movie keeps you wondering what is going on and what is going to happen next.  Although it is a romantic drama, it’s not a lovey-dovey story.  The connection between them is quite rigid but it makes it much more interesting.  If you’re a reader, I would definitely recommend reading the book first.  It’s a great story.  I enjoyed the 1996 version with William Hurt much more than this new version, but it is still an enjoyable movie.

Out of 5, I give this movie 3 and a half stars.