This week it is the 1943 production of Jane Eyre that has sparked my imagination, starring Joan Fontaine and Orson Welles as Jane and Mr Rochester this is by far the best adaption of Charlotte Bronte's book that I have ever watched. As well all know I'm a big period drama buff, so I love anything in historic costume but this one is a must see. Joan Fontaine meekly plays the plain Jane the young governess, just as Bronte would have intended her to be... unremarkable, competent and reliable. Orson Welles is the best Mr Rochester I have ever seen, possibly even better than the book, he is not any obviously attractive man which I think is where many adaptions have failed in casting a man that was too good looking to play Mr Rochester. Mr Rochester is attractive in his confidence, reclusivness and presence and most importantly he doesn't try hard with anyone.
But the real show stealer is the child cast, a young Jane played by Peggy Ann Garner in a very competent and talented performance. Jane's relationship with Helen whilst at school is truly tear jerking, with Helen being played by a very young Elizabeth Taylor in a small uncredited role.
Thornfield House the home of Mr Rochester and where Jane works as a Governess is very creepy, it is quite believable that there are ghosts in the attic.
If young haven't read Jane Eyre it is well worth a watch.... pretty good if you have an English project on the book as this is a detailed adaptation.
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