School Library Journal Review
Gr 7 UpReaders of Charlotte Bronte's 1847 novel, as well as fans of the recent rash of English lit classics made into movies, will be enthralled with this excellent adaptation. Samantha Morton of A&E's Emma stars as the independent orphan who comes to Thornfield Hall and quickly falls in love with the strange, moody Mr. Rochester, played by Ciaran Hinds (Persuasion and A&E's Ivanhoe). Happiness is elusive for Jane as all of the dark secrets from Rochester's past are exposed on the day of her marriage. Despite Edward's confession and pleas for Jane to stay, she leaves Thornfield, nearly dies on the moors, and begins a new life with a reverend and his sisters. She is haunted by her love, however, and returns to find the Hall burned and Rochester blind. Filmed entirely on location in England, this production commemorates the 150th anniversary of Bronte's novel and is faithful to her work. Cast, setting, costumes, and direction are all top notch, and viewers will once again be moved by this story of unconditional love.Marilyn Higgins, Metuchen High School, NJ (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.