JE FILM ADAPTATIONS

Well, I�ve already given my opinion more than once. But it�s a favorite theme with me, so here goes. I agree with you Amy, I loved Tim Dalton as Rochester, cause he had no problem in going a bit overboard sometimes, instead of trying to make it a too subtle performance. Sometimes the direct, all-feeling performance is the best. I didn�t see the George C.Scott version, but I`ve heard some people say that it was quite good. They also thought that Susannah York was too pretty to be Jane. Well, I saw her in T m Jones and she was beautiful, so I believe them.

I'm with you, Louisa. Rochester is meant to be a Byronic, bigger-than-life character, so subtlety doesn't really play, as with the Wm. Hurt portrayal. I've never seen the Scott version. Hope the upcoming A&E with Ciaran Hinds is good -- he is such a powerful, fiery actor that I hope his Rochester is great! And I've heard good things about Samantha Morton as Jane. The only bummer is the 2 hour length -- we'll probably just get the love story,and not much else. Oh well...

Yeah, most of the adaptations, except the TD one, have that flaw: most other characters aren`t developed at all. It�s all centered on J. and R. and characters like St. John and Helen are left aside, which I find a pity cause they do have an interest themselves. My favourite thing in the book is the love story and those wonderful dialogues that they keep between themselves, but the childhood part is also important for us to understand Jane`s personality and motivations.

I agree. The whole Lowood scenario is so chilling -- esp. since it is completely autobiographical. St. John does play his part as the cold religioso without a heart, so we can understand why Jane would turn to Rochester, who, though flawed, knows how to love her for herself. The whole story is just so great!!

The TD version is the best, absolutely the best. Sometimes, if his acting seems to be a little too much over the top I think of it in terms of a stage play, and it sits a little better with me. I have the George C. Scott version, and while good, he just lacks passion. The WH I just couldn't take at all...too much playing around with the story, among other things.

I agree, Sandy -- TD rules! I just think he came the closest of anyone in capturing the Romantic spirit of Rochester. The character in the book is pretty over the top too, so Dalton's tour de force didn't bother me -- in fact, I liked him better in this than in anything else I've seen him in!

If anyone wants to download a Quicktime movie of the new JE with Samantha Morton and C. Hinds, go to: http://brite.tv.co.uk/market/eyre.mov WARNING: It's pretty slow, even on my T1 line. But the result is impressive!

I wonder how I`ll get the new Jane Eyre version. You see, here in Portugal, most British series and films are impossible to find. I wonder if there�s a place on the Net where I can order it or something. Can anyone help me?

Yes! A&E will be more than happy to sell you the video once the show airs. Visit their site at: http://www.aetv.com/

Hey Amy!! Jane Eyre with Scott is my first love. I read that It can be had through a video catalog. I cant find the name or number did you or anyone write it down? One thing I love about TD is his whisper-like way of talking. You almost have to snuggle up close to hear him! it made Mr Rochester more human (Humane) to me. But I think he is too good looking for the role!!

Anne: Go to: http://amazon.com/ and do a find on JANE EYRE (Title) You will be able to order the T. Dalton JE tape for $29.95 (my sister just ordered this for my birthday!) BTW, Anne, if you like IVANHOE, see my Middle Ages Board at: http://www.spring.com/yapp-bin/public/browse/medieval/all/

Thanks Amy! :-)

This was TD's finest performance, without a doubt. Although the Lion in Winter comes close.

Isn't it odd how he was so lifeless as James Bond? He seemed stiff & awkward. Maybe that kind of role just doesn't suit him. I thought he was a lot of fun in THE ROCKETEER, however -- couldn't bring myself to see BEAUTICIAN AND THE BEAST though...

Yikes...just the title gives me the chills. I can already hear that Fran Drescher squeals in my head...BRRR...poor guy, It�s a shame to see talent thus wasted.

That's for sure! I think Dalton is at his best in more classical roles -- he's better in period pieces than in contemporary ones. I feel the same way about Colin Firth, in a way...

I read that they left out the gypsy scene in the new A&E version. Too bad, because I think that is a very sexy scene. (Well perhaps I am thinking of Mr Dalton...sexy in anything!) No it is very tense, at least on his side. Do you think? Anyway, I also don't see how JE can be compressed into just two little hours without cutting too much...Lowood I can do without. Although I know it is character development...concenrtate on the romance, and please Let St John be St John, and not and not whatever e was in the Hollywood version...apologies to Amy!!:-)

No problem, Anne. Which version didn't you like St.John in? That IS too bad about the gypsy scene -- it's a pivotal one, because Rochester is actively trying to discover Jane's feelings for the first time. And two hours really_is_ pretty short for JE. I have to confess, I love the Lowood scenes -- knowing that it was all true makes it horridly fascinating to me, for some reason. But yes -- give us the romance! I'm really pleased that Hinds is playing Rochester -- he showed so much power as Bois de Gu lbert in IVANHOE that I can see him absolutely running away with the part. And Samantha Morton looked good too, in the brief Quicktime trailer I saw.

Which version didn't you like St.John in? In the Wm Hurt version, he was connected to Aunt Reed somehow. I tried to tape it last month, so only watched the last hour solidly. When I went to rewatch, I saw that I had the VCR on the wrong channel:-(. Anyway, I remain somewhat confused over this version!!! Can't wait to see Hinds!!

FYI Have just read that The ToWH is going to be on PBS Masterpiece Theater sometime this fall...keep an eye out!

Yeh! I think this is a BBC Production. Any idea who stars?

Rupert Graves, I think.

The guy in WHERE ANGELS FEAR TO TREAD & ROOM WITH A VIEW?

Hi guys, how's it going over here? Have you seen the little Jane film clip you can d/l from the British distributor's site? I'll see if I can find the URL again. AmyB

] The guy in WHERE ANGELS FEAR TO TREAD & ROOM WITH A VIEW? __ That's the guy. Here's a bio. I found a picture once for Roar, but I dan't remember the site anymore. http://www.movienet.com/movienet/movinfo/madnessofkggra.html

I don't have clue

AMY!!! I am _thrilled_ to see you here -- welcome!!! Yes, I did download the trailer of the new JANE EYRE with C. Hinds, and it looked quite good. It's funny about Rupert Graves -- I always picture him as a little kid, since he played Freddy in RWAV, but I guess that all grown up, he'll make an excellent Gilbert Markham. How are things over at Pemberley?

Roy: Are you confused about Rupert Graves? He's going to be playing Gilbert in a new version of TENANT OF WILDFELL HALL. If you are just generally confused (as I generally am), then please, ask away, and we will try to answer your questions!!

I just watched the new JE via my London purchased copy. It is wonderful! Yes, there are things left out, but overall it is intelligently done. The passion between Jane and Rochester is much more intense than any other version. And I really liked how Samantha Morton played Jane with a great deal of spirit. St. John was in the correct place, but not accurately portrayed. But Cirian Hinds....whew!!! It's definitely cold shower time.

Ah, Sandy, how I envy you!!! Is there any place in London where copies can be purchased? I can convert from PAL to NTSC where I work. Thanks!

Hmmm. My husband just went to a video store in London. Is there something on the net, perhaps?

Maybe a "Video U.K." outlet. I'll have to check!!

Rupert Graves plays Arthur Huntingdon and not Gilbert Markham. Luscious Toby Stephens is Gilbert and Tara Fitzgerald (Just wonderful!) is Helen Graham. It�s an excellent series, great atmoshphere and music. And, of course, overall acting. I just loved it.

Wow! Sweet little Rupert Graves as that depraved, drunken Arthur -- that should be something to see. What else has Toby Stephens been in? I know that he and JE were having a bit of a tryst during the making of CAMOMILE LAWN...

Rupert Graves is positively terrifying as Huntingdon. He has this smooth voice that can turn into an enraged shout anytime. It�s scary! And the thing is TF has these very low, somewhat gentle tones...it suits her character. TS seems to have had a part in Twelth (I think this is wrongly written...) Night. I don�t know about his other works. He does a lot of theatre too, I guess.

I think he -was- in that Trevor Nunn 12TH NIGHT, which, I confess, I couldn't get through (the audio on the videotape I had was TERRIBLE, and that's a bummer when you're trying to hear Shakespearean lines). I can't wait for TENANT to air in the U.S. -- do you know when this is planned for?

I have heard quite a lot about the various Jane Eyre adaptations, but one that is almost unheard of is the George C.Scott version. Anyone out there care to give me an opinion? I�d like to buy it, but the only way I know is through the Net. Some online video shop, perhaps. I know it�s very hard to find. Anyway, tell me what you think of this version! I have never seen it.

Luisa, I can't help you, because I've never seen that one. I confess I have a fondness for the old Orson Welles/Joan Fontaine version, just because it's from the Golden Age,and Welles had the presence for Rochester. My fave so far is the Timothy Dalton, but we'll have to see how Mr. Hinds does!!

Just wanted to let you all know that I adore the TD version above them all myself. At least all that I have seen. Here is my real point! I THOUGHT I had seen all but the A&E version, but I just found out there are.... are you ready for this? TEN (10) adaptations of "Jane Eyre!" ELEVEN (11) if you count Wide Saragosso Sea. Here they are: 1914 Jane Eyre (Silent) Lisbeth Blackstone, John Charles 1915 The Castle of Thornfield (Silent) 1918 Woman & Wife (Silent) Alice Brady, Elliot Dexter 1921 Jane Eyre (Silent) Mabel Ballin, John Webb Dillon 1934 Jane Eyre (B/W) Virginia Bruce, Colin Clive 1944 Jane Eyre (B/W) Orson Welles, Joan Fontaine 1970 Jane Eyre (TV-NBC) George C. Scott, Susannah York 1983 Jane Eyre (TV-British) Zelah Clarke, Timothy Dalton 1996 Jane Eyre (Color) William Hurt, Charlotte Gainsbourg 1997 Jane Eyre (A&E/BBC) Ciaran Hinds What do you think of that!? Lori

That's absolutely amazing! My own personal ranking is: Timothy Dalton -- #1 Orson Welles -- #2 Wm Hurt -- #11 =====

Amy! LOL! I agree completely. I don't "get" those who love his performance. It was void of practically everything. I have a hard time believing that TD's version is almost 15 years old! How old is he anyway!? Lori

I have no idea, but he still looks pretty darned good. I'd guess -- late 40's or early 50's? His Rochester absolutely gives Colin Firth's Mr. Darcy a run for the money, you betcha!

Oh yes...I feel in love with Darcy when I first saw Pride, but after seeing Jane Eyre...Rochester is �THE� man of my dreams. Energy, wit, strength, passion and...intelligence. Great sex appeal. Just perfect. ;-)

You go Luisa! I have to agree -- there's something about the character of Rochester that just appeals to me more -- I think it's his lack of taciturnity. This is a man who TELLS Jane exactly what his feelings are for her -- no beating around the bush or being held in by social convention. I think if Rochester had been able to find out where Jane fled to, he would have moved heaven & earth to find her!!

Ooo! Amy what a picture that paints in my head! Can you imagine an alternative ending to "Jane Eyre?" Rochester scouring the country side searching for her? That's what we need here! Fan fiction! Who's talented enough to write some down? I've done my share of Austen stories, maybe its time to try "Jane." Lori

Lori -- I am a writer, but I've never tried my hand at fanfic. You never know though...

I know this is not a very "feminist" point of view, but I always feel sorry that he doesn`t get to go after her and bring her back to Thornfield, whether she liked it or not. Make her return...Charlotte Bronte would never write such a thing, but for me, well, that would have been the perfect ending. Of course, she�s be mad at first and stuff, but they�d make up and Rochester wouldn�t have to lose his sight and hand (that has always made me angry)...the only "but" here is Bertha... The mad "skeleton", not n the closet, but in the attic...

That would have been pretty romantic, especially if he could have PERSUADED her to return. But then what of mad Bertha? -And- Charlotte felt the need to make Rochester do penance for his sin of near-bigamy. PLUS, having him be dependent on Jane at the end actually gives her more power. I think that CB had her story locked down pretty well...

She did, yes. It`s just a big shame that a strong man like Rochester is maimed like that, sp. when I remember TD`s performance in the end. It always moves me when he starts asking Jane about St, John. Of course we know he`s jealous, but it shows the insecure side of Rochester. The feeling of inferiority. And that is more poignant when we think of his former self-assurance and arrogance.

Yes, I think that in CB's eyes, he had to be humbled in some way as penance for his past sins. It also gives Jane more power & independence if he's more than her "Master." It is very heartrending though to see such a powerful man brought so low, and so dependent. But fortunately, he has his Jane to do things for him!!

Just wanted to let you know that I am finally going to get to see the new film version of "Jane Eyre." A&E is sending me an advance press screening next week. I will be sure to give you a complete report! Lori

Lori, you are lucky, lucky, lucky! Please let us know how it is, and don't spare any details -- I'm really anxious to know what kind of Rochester Ciaran makes.

I have a beautiful picture of Welles and Fontaine as Jane and Rochester, but I can't figure out how to post it here. can anyone give me a quick lesson? Lori

I am completely HTML challenged! Does anyone else know how?

Luisa, it doesn't appear that anyone else has answered your question, so I will. I like the George C. Scott version of JE A LOT, and it can be purchased through the Critic's Choice catalog (let me know if you need more info). Susannah York IS too pretty for Jane, but GCS is absolutely perfect as Rochester, IMO -- just exactly the way I picture him from the book. I love the TD version (Zelah Clarke is about as close to Jane as I can see getting), but he is awfully good-looking to be a convincing Rocheste . As far as HTML, check out the tutorial here or at Pemberley for instructions on posting a picture. That's one of the things I like about the Spring -- pictures seem to be posted more here!

Susan -- I have a ton of pictures I'd love to post. I will check out Ann's HTML Tutorial at Pemberley. Speaking of the George C. Scott version of JE, I was just looking for it at the videostore, & could not find. How was Scott as Rochester? His overall personna is pretty harsh, a la PATTON -- did he manage romantic tenderness as well?

http://shill.simplenet.com/actress/fontaj03.jpg I doubt this worked. But if it did, you should see a nice picture of Welles and Fontaine in Jane Eyre. If not, go to the link and check it out! Lori

Lori: Can you e-mail me privately & give me Idiotic Instructions on how to post Picts to this Board? They all "live" on existing sites on the Web, if that's any help. I've collected some cool ones of the Brontes I'd like to share. Thanks!!

That should have read "Idiot Instructions." As in -- for someone to whom HTML is another planet. Thanks.

Susan -- I have a ton of pictures I'd love to post. I will check out Ann's HTML Tutorial at Pemberley. Please do, but if you find a picture on the net that you want to post here, that's easy. Right-click on it and choose "Copy Image Location." Come back here, and in the message box, hit the following keys (omit commas!): Shift, lesser than symbol, img src=, quote sign, control V, quote sign, shift, greater than symbol. Then send the message -- your picture should show up when you look at the sent message. I know this doesn't necessarily make sense now, but if I actually type it out, you won't be able t see it! Just give it a try. This is explained more thoroughly in the tutorial, BTW. Speaking of the George C. Scott version of JE, I was just looking for it at the videostore, & could not find. How was Scott as Rochester? His overall personna is pretty harsh, a la PATTON -- did he manage romantic tenderness as well? You can get it through Critic's Choice, but I don't think it's generally available for rent yet. I bet it will be, though. He did *great* romantic tenderness -- I thought he was WONDERFULLY Rochester-ish.

Thanks Susan!!! I just rented the Timothy Dalton version of WUTHERING HEIGHTS, which I haven't seen in ages. Have to confess, I'm still partial to the classic William Wyler 1939 version with Olivier & Merle Oberon (sigh). Was Olivier gorgeous as a young man or what? Can we BLAME Vivien Leigh for leaving her husband for him?

I'm not sure whether this will work, but here goes ... For those of you interested in reading a review of "The Tenant of Wildfell Hall" starring Tara Fitzgerald, Toby Stephens and Rupert Graves here is the link :� http://www2.hunterlink.net.au/~ddibd/jane/breeches.html Also, there is a review of the recent ITV/A&E 2 hour adaptation of "Jane Eyre" at :� http://www2.hunterlink.net.au/~ddibd/jane/iceman.html If these links don't work, they can be found just under the photograph of Marianne and Willoughby from Em Thompson's "Sense and Sensibility" on Ostentatious Jane's "Jane Austen" Page here :� http://www2.hunterlink.net.au/~ddibd/jane/jane.html

Hi Glad to read that Im not alone in likeing GCS! I think one reason I love his performance so much, this may sound weird, so let me try to get it right... He is almost a father figure to Jane, something Ive never had. So I had this image in my mind and when I saw GCS he fit that image perfectly. (Big man, stern, blunt, kind, jealous, not so handsome) But while he is a protector of sorts, he is also in love and showed that love. That fit my romantic 13-14 year old notions as well. Why I felt the need to confess this I don't know! :-)

But don't you feel better now that you have, Anne? In the book, there's an 18 year age difference between Jane & Rochester, so there is definitely some of that father figure thing going on. BERNIE!!! Hi, how are you? It's been a long time -- how're things in England? I'll be going there myself end of next month.

...Glad to read that Im not alone in likeing GCS!...I had this image in my mind and when I saw GCS he fit that image perfectly. (Big man, stern, blunt, kind, jealous, not so handsome) But while he is a protector of sorts, he is also in love and showed that love. That fit my romantic 13-14 year old notions as well. Why I felt the need to confess this I don't know! Ditto, Anne! I couldn't have said it better myself, and I'm glad you felt the need to bare your soul! I also watched it for the first time when I was in my early teens, and thought GCS/Rochester was just about the perfect man. For a two-hour version, I thought this was excellent and I have watched it several times since I bought it, with greater appreciation each time. I was afraid it would have lost something in the twenty-something years in between, but no. I would love to discuss it in more detail ith anyone who's interested. :-)

I have always wondered why Briggs and Rochester never had the brains to ask the coach drivers where they took Jane. It always seemed the obvious way to seek her out. Well, I guess then the story would have been ruined. But wouldn't you have thought of that?

That's a good point, Sandy! We know that Rochester had the lawyer looking high & low, but why not ask the coachmen? Unless Jane was so nondescript that she escaped attention or something. It also surprised me that Rochester would not -personally- undertake the search, instead of fleeing back to the Continent.

If you recall, Rochester promised he would not follow her. I think in hiring the lawyer, his goal was to know she was well and not "dead in some ditch..." I also wonder if him leaving the continent was not part of his search for her. I haven't read the book in a whlie -- but it doesn't say WHERE he'd gone does it? Maybe Ireland?

That's true. Maybe he thought she took that situation he had 'found' for her. This is based on a true-life incident, BTW. Charlotte was offered a governess position in Ireland, & she was so depressed at the time, she nearly went.

I've resolved to order JE with GCS tonight. Why I, as a mom/wife, feel the need to deny myself something (I've been looking for this for years) as inexpensive as this, I don't know.!!! Maybe I'm afraid it won't be as good?

There's a new movie, just out yesterday, called 'Career Girls' which Ann Hornaday calls "a portrait of compassion". What caught my eye was this comment of hers: "The two cleaved unto one another, arguing about psychology, deifying the Cure and using Emily Bronte as a literary Ouija board . . . " The movie is directed by Oscar winning Mike Leigh of 'Secrets and Lies'. 'Career Girls' is rated R for language, adult situations.

I've resolved to order JE with GCS tonight. Why I, as a mom/wife, feel the need to deny myself something (I've been looking for this for years) as inexpensive as this, I don't know.!!! Maybe I'm afraid it won't be as good? I'm assuming you mean as good as the TD version? It's a very good production, and I like it a lot, but it's different, of course. Truly, GCS is more like Rochester to me, although I can't fault TD's performance in any way (the man can't help it if he's gorgeous!), and Zelah Clarke is the definitive Jane for me. There were parts I liked better in this one and other parts I didn't like as well. It's much shorter, of course, but they cut out all the Aunt Reed stuff in the beginning, and really shorten th Lowood part. The scenery is breathtaking. I'd love to discuss it more with you after you've viewed it. Terry, Career Girls is supposed to be great -- thanks for the reference!

I was flipping channels last night & caught a flash of Zelah Clarke in LADY JANE! Looked like she had a pretty minor part. I'd dearly love to see that George C. Scott JE, but even my very large L.A. videostore (it of the 25,000 TITLES) does not have. Maybe I will comfort myself by rewatching the TD version.

More good reports on the movie aI mentioned above, it is laced with Bronte quotes according to my friend Bob, who just saw it.

Which one? The George C. Scott?

I should mention that the Bronte Parsonage is selling ccs. of the new A&E JANE EYRE & TENANT OF WILDFELL HALL. They may just stock PAL (European format) tapes though. If not, I am definitely going to buy for ME. Is anyone else interested? We can work out payment details later...

Amy, I'm definitely interested! Please e-mail me to work out details. BTW, I think Terry was referring above to Career Girls, which I heard was very good, also.

Hi again, Amy, and all other Bronte fans! I`ve been on holiday in the Algarve, so I couldn`t get in touch. Guess what?!? For my birthday I got the best present possible from my godmother who spent some time in England...yep, I got the new Jane Eyre and I can tell you right away that I don�t think people will be disappointed. It`s a passionate, lovely adaptation and Samantha Morton is the best Jane so far, the most wonderful and appealing performance. Ciaran Hinds is a very moving Rochester, even though on the basis of sex-appeal, I still prefer Dalton. All in all, I loved the whole thing, even though there were some major c ts in the story. The love scenes are specially powerful. I was close to tears most of the times. Well, people, I won`t comment any further, don`t want to reveal too much. Of course I could stay here forever and talk about it, but there will come a time when my two cents will come in hand. ;-)

Luisa, we all envy you! I am hoping to pick this up when I'm at the Bronte Parsonage in September, (along with WILDFELL HALL). Great to know that Hinds is as good as ever & that Samantha Morton is a creditable Jane. I can't wait!!

I�m kind of disappointed now, cause someone from Pemberley sent me the GSC version of Jane Eyre (she said she didn�t want it anymore) and it`s NOT compatible with my VCR (though it looks in every way like other tapes I have)...oh hell and damnation!...Sigh. All I see are streaks of grey and black and hear distorted sounds. It�s more like Frankenstein than Jane Eyre...

That's a bummer. I don't know what GSC is -- NTSC is U.S. style, & PAL is European. Here's a dumb question, but did you try adjusting the tracking? In any case, I hope the Bronte Parsonage has NTSC so I can BUY!!!

Oh, did I write GSC?! ;-) I meant the GCS (George C. Scott) version... he, he, he.

I just received a new video catalog in the mail and guess what is for sale! "Jane Eyre" (the new one) and "The Tenant of Wildfell Hall." Jane Eyre costs US$ 19.95 and will be available in October of 1997. The Tenant of Wildfell Hall costs US$ 29.98 and will be available in November of 1997. The URL for this site is www.videocollection.com (I become more HTML challenged as the evening wears on.:)

Thanks for that info Karen!!! That is a great tip. If I can't find NTSC copies of these shows at the Bronte Parsonage "Gift Store," I will definitely get them from the above. Of course, by October I'm sure A&E will be happy to sell us the tapes for about $69.99 each!! ">"

I just checked out the Video Collection web site. Right now, they don't list either "Jane Eyre" or "The Tenant of Wildfell Hall." I think that is because the release dates are in October and November. Anyway, here is an 800 number for them: 1-800-538-5856. This site has a lot of PBS videos, in fact it is a very eclectic site. Their catalog claims that they have 125,000 videos available (just not listed in their catalog or online.) They will search for you. Also, the deal they are offering is free shipping of videos for orders placed online only. I hope it will still be offered in October and November. :) Anyway, check out this site, pretty fun! (I received the catalog as part of a package for contributing to my local PBS station. I get 10% off videos. You may want to check to see if your local PBS station has offer.)

That sounds good. I'd love to find FLORENCE NIGHTENGALE with Timothy Dalton. I'm going to search for this when I'm in England as well.

I just found this conference 3 hours ago and haven't budged since. No one has posted in this one since last month, but I'm giving it a try. First, I have been a JE devotee since the first time I read the book at age 12, and this is the first time I've ever heard of the T Dalton version! How could I have missed it? Was it shown in the USA? Thanks to info I found here I have already ordered it from Amazon. Secondly, I was AMAZED that no one here mentions MY definitive version, the 1973 BBC TV production with Michael Jayston as Mr R and Sorcha Cusak as Jane! It too is a 5-parter (as I understand the 1983 one to be), so it is not a "77rpm" version like the 2-hr presentations. It is extremely faithful to the book, practically word for word. Although Jayston at first was not my physical idea of Mr R, I was won over quite quickly and he still remains THE Mr. Rochester to me. The man has him DOWN! Cusak does a very good job too--I would think Jane's character would be a hard one to portray. I haven't seen it broadcast (here it was on PBS channels) for a long time, but taped it and every now and then watch it, or parts of it, again. It never ceases to affect me, the POWER of that story written 150 years ago. And I fall in love all over again, too, of course! Anyone else out there ever seen this version??

They were just discussing this version over on the Jane Austen board: http://www.pemberley.com This was the FIRST I had heard of it, I must confess! Wait till you see Timothy Dalton -- he is absolutely -brilliant_ as Mr. R.! And Zelah Clarke, who is a stage actress, is just wonderful as Jane, though she is a bit old... Welcome to this Board & feel free to create any new topics!!

Thank you! But where in Pemberley -- there's quite a choice!

Never mind, I found it. And, O No, not another site!! (Oh well, what's ANOTHER 3 hours over there....)

Yes, this is an excellent site with a long history. They started off small & then grew to "Republic" size. If you're a Jane Austen fan, that's the place to be! And I hope that Bronte fans will find their way to this Board!!

I'll pass the word to those I know -- it's a wonderful site!

Yes -- Amy 1, who started it, is a wonderful gal (as all Amy's are, natch!!)

I know I'm stepping into this rather late, but I've finally seen the A&E version of Jane Eyre--and I was so appalled by it that I almost couldn't bear to watch. Jane has been my favorite heroine, and Rochester my absolute favorite of all romantic heroes ever since I first read the book as a young girl. Why on earth did the screenwriter take such liberties? Charlotte's dialogue is sweetly romantic and absolutely perfect. I felt Ciaran Hinds was a completely inappropriate Rochester. His bellowing and s enery chewing was really ludicrous. EFR may be passionate, but he's not a clown. Maybe part of the problem was that I couldn't get past the incredible changes in the dialogue, but this was just unbearable for me. And Samantha Morton just didn't have that otherworldly quality that a good Jane should have. She was bold as brass! I can't help feeling that my response to it may seem silly, but it really bothered me. My favorite scene in the novel occurs when Jane is leaving Rochester. His emotions are s pure, and painful--his desire to be with Jane is so strong, and it's breaking him. And they made a hash of it in the A&E version. Do filmmakers think that contemporary viewers can't appreciate or understand Charlotte's story? I felt like this was the "updated for the 90's" Jane Eyre. I watched it with my fiancee, who giggled as I paced and stomped around the house, shouting "I don't believe this!" at random. I had my doubts about this version, and now I know why. My favorite remains the TD Jane. H 's a perfect Rochester, and while Zelah may be a bit old to play Jane, at least her performance captures some of the--it appears--very elusive Jane. I wish I'd found this site earlier!

Welcome! I'm afraid I had the same reaction to this version of JE as you did -- it disgusted me, and I had to turn off after Lowood. It was a misnomer to call this "Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre." It was SOMEBODY'S JE, but it sure as heck wasn't Charlotte's! Was there something so wrong with her original dialogue that they couldn't keep more than 3 lines? A real abomination, IMHO.

Hi, I've had a really interesting time reading peoples opinions on JE adaptations. My personal favourite is the BBC Timothy Dalton/Zelah Clarke version. The black & white Welles version was more about Rochester than JE. The William Hurt version took too many liberties with the story. The one everyone refers to as A&E (incidentally what does this stand for?) was shown in England on the telly and was then shown at the arts cinema in Bradford on the big screen. The woman who wrote the screenplay for ths ver ion was in the audience along with lecturers and various Bronte experts. At the end of the show all these "VIPS" sat on the stage and discussed the film and took questions from the audience. I was lucky enough to be there (even though I wasn't over fond of this version) The discussion was very interesting and brought it home to me exactly how difficult it must be to write a screenplay for a novel such as JE. The acting apart, the changes in the story are not always done for any reason more important other than cost. For example JE and Rochesters meeting was as it was because the directors/producers said they couldn't reproduce the conditions described in the book. The writer had to justify the changes to the script and justified herself well I felt, although I didn't lways agree with them. I agree with Valerie that this version seemed to have been "updated" for todays audience - with no real need to do this. Ciaran was better than Samantha Morton who I felt was a bit too down to earth for the J

WHOOPS pressed the wrong thing! I'll continue with my message here She was too down to earth anyway. A lot of the audience felt she was too pretty for Jane although the writer assured us she wasn't!!! The writer is called Kay Mellor and she is a local lass who was written many sucessful TV series. After seeing these I feel this version of JE definitely has her stamp on it. Mamie

Hi Mamie! A&E stands for Arts and Entertainment. My book club just did JE for April, and it was pretty fun. I watched the William Hurt version and the A&E version, and I'm only one hour into the Timothy Dalton version right now, although I saw it and loved it years ago. I do like the way Timothy Dalton delivers his lines. The friend who loaned me the tape thinks Zelah Clarke's eyes are too close together (?!), but I think she's pretty good. I like her scene when she meets Adele, and I think Jane's emotions show on er face fairly well. I wasn't impressed with the girl who played the young Jane, though. Seemed like she was not sure of hitting her marks. I don't know why she even fainted in the red room -- she didn't seem that upset. I did like the girl who played Helen Burns, though. I hadn't realized that Charlotte based the character on her own sister Maria. I do like the amount of dialogue that's used straight out of the novel, though. You really can't replace it with anything else and get the story right. Melissa

Hi Melissa I agree absolutely, there's just no substitute. I'm trying to get hold of the Wuthering Heights with Timothy Dalton in. It's proving difficult. I thought the local library would have it. I've heard that's good too. I'm sure TD would make a good Heathcliff (although I found Ralph Fiennes irresistable!) Yes, it is said that Maria was the model for Helen Burns. On a recent visit to the parsonage I saw two samplers that Maria and the other sister Elizabeth had sewn whilst at Cowan Bridge School. It said that these were the only artifacts left behind by these two sisters. It made me very sad. I'm sure they would have made their mark on the world just as their siblings did. But I'm going on now.... Mamie

Okay, I'm gonna start by saying I'm in my early 40s and read Jane Eyre when I was a teenager, so I was only familiar with the plot, basically. SO, when I saw my first version, which was the one that aired recently on A&E, I was spell-bound. Ciaran Hinds I thought was wonderful . . . a truly passionate Mr. Rochester. Who cares if he went over the top. That's what a really passionate man does . . . I thought he was a wonderful choice, as Mr. Rochester is not supposed to be a handsome man, and felt t e TD one would neglect to emphasize that point. SO, I went out and bought the TD version, after reading the kudos from this and other boards . . . Okay okay . . . Timothy Dalton is wonderful . . . no question, especially considering the style the adaptation was made in . . . very staid, very British. But is he too handsome to play Mr. Rochester, who after all, was not supposed to be so. But he really charged my battery!! The one thing that bothered me throughout the production was their BIG size difference. Is he really THAT tall? or was she eally THAT short? I kept wanting to put her on a stool whenever they were kissing or hugging. Her neck must have hurt for weeks!! : )) Her acting was too subtle for me and alas, she was too old. So, I went out and rented William Hurt/Charlotte ______ last night. Such a different production that the other two, but I found I really enjoyed parts of it . . . especially the midnight proposal scene . . . that kiss is to die for . . . he can seduce me anytime. I found she was my favorite Jane . . . I felt the director hadn't tied her hands and didn't keep saying "less emotion! less emotion!" The other Janes just couldn't put any emotion on their face and it drove me nuts . . . What I was REALLY disappointed in was the ending. Where's the passion! I was expecting a BIG payoff at the end since they had teased us with little contact throughout the film, but alas, we don't even know if SHE knows his wife is dead!!! But it was beautiful and look forward to viewing it again tonight! Also, Joan Plowwright was a treasure and really added much to the whole ambience of the film. So, I must favor the A&E adaptation because of the passion, but love TD too! Well, there it is . . . I know I'm not in the majority . . . be kind to me! Will be going out and find a used copy of the novel to enjoy the original!! Thanks!

Wouldn't it be great if we could patch together all the good bits from all these versions and make the ultimate Jane Eyre movie? About Timothy Dalton being so tall next to Zelah Clarke, in the book Rochester often comments on how small Jane is. And this version is the only one I noticed where Rochester calls her "Janet" as an endearment. I must say, I seriously considered Janet as a name choice when we had our first baby due to the way TD said it. I've been meaning to get a hold of "Wuthering Heights" with TD, and the Ralph Fiennes version, too. I just haven't spent much time in front of the TV lately -- just in front of my computer monitor!! And reading my Brontes! I haven't read "The Tenant of Wildfell Hall" before, and I guess I need to put that on my list, but I've got four books going right now, and three are from the library and therefore have "deadlines." And a 3-year-old and an 11-month-old with ear infections! TV is at the bottom of the list of things to do! At least we have a nice assortment of interpretations to choose from when we need a Bronte fix on the screen! Take care! Melissa

As most of you probably know, I really couldn't stand the recent A&E adaptation. I recognized about three lines of original dialogue from Charlotte Bronte -- that's it. Thought that Hinds was way over the top & probably hadn't read the book to begin with. I was so disappointed that I couldn't make it much past the Lowood scenes. Calling this thing "Charlotte Bronte's JE" is the misnomer of the year, IMHO.

My favourite version is the Hurt-Gainsbourgh movie. Despite the fact that the story does not follow the book, this is the only film imho, which captures the atmosphere, the true spirit, of Jane Eyre... This film differs from the other movies, because the story is told in a silent, subtle way... Hurt portrays Rochester the way I see him: as a deeply wounded yet gentle soul... and Gainsbourgh�s introvert, down-to-earth Jane is very convincing, too.... they tell the story with much passion and heart, but -thank goodness- without being *theatrical* (like Hinds-Morton)! The only other actor who is capable of portraying Rochester, too, is Alan Rickman.... the way he portrayed Col. Brandon in "Sense And Sensibility" took my breath away... he�d be the perfect Rochester! What a pity that he has not yet portrayed him.... Hope dies last! :-) bye:-), Miss Eyre

How many JE Film Adaptations have there been? Is there a list anywhere?

Here�s the list (not in chronological order): (source: Internet Movie Data Base) bye:-), Miss Eyre

oh dear, I forgot how to write html LOL... second try: Internet Movie Data Base`s List bye:-), Miss Eyre

What an incredible list. Do you have copies of all these versions in your own tape library? Amazing.

Just look at this 1944 rendition from the IMDB: Plot Summary: Small, plain and poor, Jane Eyre comes to Thornfield Hall as governess to the young ward of Edward Rochester... (more) User Comments: a brooding,windswept moors-type film (more) User Rating: 7.6/10 (1,344 votes) Complete credited cast: Orson Welles .... Edward Rochester Joan Fontaine .... Jane Eyre Margaret O'Brien .... Adele Varens Peggy Ann Garner .... Jane Eyre (younger) John Sutton .... Dr. Rivers Sara Allgood .... Bessie Henry Daniell .... Henry Brocklehurst Agnes Moorehead .... Mrs. Reed Aubrey Mather .... Colonel Dent Edith Barrett .... Mrs. Fairfax Barbara Everest .... Lady Ingram Hillary Brooke .... Blanche Ingram (more)

Wow, 1944. I've heard of Joan Fontaine, Agnes Moorehead, and of course Orson Wells. This had to be in black and white.

I own a copy of the Hurt version, and the Jayston version.... had the Hinds version on video-tape, but deleted it in my rage over their acting :-)... saw the Dalton version twice, this one was better... Orson Welles gives me the creeps since "The Third Man" LOL, have not yet dared to see his portrayal of Rochester... the George C Scott/ Susannah York version seems to be interesting, this is the one I�d like to see next... BTW, do you know that a new version of Jane Eyre is in planning?! starring Ruth Wilson as Jane and Toby Stephens as Rochester: article: Ruth as Jane an interview with Toby Stephens bye:-), Miss Eyre

Ruth Wilson looks stunning. I haven't heard of Toby Stephens, is this a good choice? This was another interesting blog entry from the same site: Rumour has it that Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp have been lined up to play Cathy and Heathcliff in a new movie version of Wuthering Heights. We'll keep our ears open......

Yes, she`s beautiful :-) and fresh from drama school. I don`t know Stephen`s work, either... lets wait and see :-) oh dear, I hope it`s just a rumour... what an odd couple it would be! :-)... the only positive thing I see here is that Jolie might inspire the MTV generation to read some good old literature again! bye:-). Miss Eyre

What are the personality traits of the Cathy and Heathcliff characters and how do they match up with those of Depp and Jolie.

hmm, difficult question... Cathy: manipulative, mistaking power/control for love, stubborn, spoilt. Heathcliff: trouble letting go of the past, revengeful; outsider, wounded soul. I know these actors just from Yellow Press - newspaper articles and we all know these "journalists" are more or less story-tellers :-)... In Jolie`s case: taking another woman`s husband suits the manipulatory aspect of Cathy`s character, I dare say LOL! Johnny Depp is a quirky sort of guy, looking for the unusual. He`s very well familiar with the gothic genre when you think of his collaboration with director Jim Burton in "Edward Sissorhands" or "Sleepy Hollow". A self-destroying personality he`s got (drugs, destructive relationships prior to his relationship with Paradis, vandalism) - there are traces of Heathcliff in Depp, I believe.... Well, these are just my general assumptions based on (more or less reliable) sources. This is OT: well, you know who comes to my mind when I think of Cathy? Scarlett O`Hara - the same type of woman, the difference is that Cathy *believed* that she loved Heathcliff, whereas Scarlett was more aware of her manipulative personality. Both men wasted their time, but Rhett Butler finally woke up one fine day, simply leaving her! "Gone With The Wind" is praised as one of the greatest love stories, but in fact, it�s a complete farce. bye:-), Miss Eyre.

Great analysis. What about Jolie's humanitarianism that somewhat counterbalances husband snatching, if that indeed is what is going on.

Angelina Jolie is doing a tremendous job working on behalf of orphans and displaced people worldwide, and she's got Brad Pitt helping her now. from abcnews.com (snip) Sept. 13, 2005 � The spotlight is nothing new to Angelina Jolie. Now, the tabloid favorite is working to deflect the attention that follows her every move to a part of the world that is often forgotten � Africa. "Africa is beautiful, marvelous, smart people, strong people, strong country and has a potential to be so much," Jolie told "Good Morning America" in advance of the release of a new MTV documentary chronicling her trip to a village in Kenya with Dr. Jeffrey Sachs of the U.N. Millennium Project. "I'd love to see Africa flourish because I think it would just � It's magnificent and it has so much hope, so much possibility." (snip)

No, it does not counterbalance it - you simply don`t take another woman`s husband! A man who leaves his wife for another woman is a no-good anyway, for it`s very likely he`ll leave the other woman, too: sooner or later, with or without kids! But her engagement for Africa shows that she is not completely spoilt :-). bye:-), Miss Eyre

I have no idea what the backstory is on Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, and Jennifer Anniston. If I read the tabloids I would know more, or less.

Hello, I'm totally new to this forum. I've been searching for the Jane Eyre movie that stars Hinds & Morton. Could somebody please please help me find a free download of this video. Thanks

Hi, could somebody please tell me where I could find a free Jane Eyre download. I prefer the one with Samantha Morton & Ciaran Hinds. Please email me at sugarstuart@hotmail.com

Hi lsd/Sugar, I don�t know where you can get it. Miss Eyre.