Throughout years of re-makes, the classic Charlotte Bronte 19th century romance of “Jane Eyre” in the latest retelling evolves into a dark, gothic horror tale of romance and mystery. Jane is a ten-year-old orphan banished from her home by a cruel aunt (Sally Hawkins) and sent to an orphanage to receive further harsh treatment by a stern headmaster (Simon McBurney) where she learns self-reliance, being resolute, and could be a forerunner of today’s liberated woman. Jane (played as an adult by Mia Wasikowska) grows into a young lady and leaves to work as governess to the young daughter of handsome, but sulking Edward Rochester (Michael Fassbender), a man of diverse moods in the mansion of foreboding, Thornfield Hall. Welcomed and treated kindly by housekeeper Mrs. Fairfax (Dame Judi Dench), Jane’s optimistic outlook becomes overshadowed by mysteries, and the inquisitive heroine perseveres to discover what is being hidden from her. In the throes of despair and anguish, she flees to be rescued by a compassionate vicar, St. John Rivers (Jamie Bell), who opens his home and his heart to the distressed young woman.
Cast performances shine and Cary Joji Fukanaga directs the period, costume drama with a knack for the eerie and morbid. The filmmaker succeeds in crafting an impressive retelling in a striking production.
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