Jane Eyre (DVD, 2007, 2-Disc Set)

This public television version (Masterpiece Theater) of the classic Charlotte Bronte tale is by far the finest adaption of the story to date. At a running time of 228 minutes, it is just shy of 4 hours in length. This allows for the full scope of the story to unfold.
And unfold it does with spectacular character development and superb principal performances from both Ruth Wilson as Jane and Toby Stephens (the villain from James Bond's Die Another Day). Scenery is beautifully moody and the score is appropriately subtle. I can say with confidence that the fan of Bronte will not be disappointed.
This package contains 2 discs in the set, but has no extras to speak of other than a DVD-Rom linkage to Masterpiece Theater. I would have preferred to have that material on the disc itself rather than having to load it into my computer.

So far, this is my favorite version of a drama based on one of my favorite books read in my youth...read by me. This miniseries played on public television in the US introduced me to a couple of fine young actors who gave more depth and even humor to the characters than I had ever imagined. Yet, the drama still follows the book's story very closely to the point where parts of the screenplay seem taken right out of the book. As an added nuance though, this Mr. Rochester, played so well by Toby Stephens, is obsessed with natural history, which he shares with his new obsession, Jane, of course, as they get to know each other. Ruth Wilson as Jane is capable of so much emotional variety throughout the drama, it is uncanny. Sharing glances over dragonflies is something right out of my daydreams so I'm wondering if the producers had me in mind when they made this version. It is also peppered with subtle humor which I find endearingly hilarious. For instance, when Jane is invited in to the study, Mr. Rochester says sit, and the camera shows the big scruffy dog sitting. Then he says, "Not you, Pilot!" I've read other reviews of this version, mostly good. If anyone has trouble with the first love scene, it is SUPPOSED to be awkward because of the situation and the age difference of the characters. These two actors make Jane and Mr. Rochester completely loveable (as well as gorgeous), more so than in any version I have seen, and you want them to be together, no matter what the odds. I couldn't wait to see it again, as I see something new in every viewing.

I bought this disk set because I love the story of Jane Eyre. There are several good film adaptations out there, but this is the best by far. One reason it's the best is that this DVD includes more parts of the book than others; it is a 2-disk set and therefore has room to include more details of the story. The biggest reason this is the best version, however, is the casting/acting. Toby Stephens plays Rochester brilliantly! Admittedly, he is far too handsome to fit the description of Rochester in the book, but one can easily forgive (and thoroughly enjoy) that! He finds the perfect balance between the gruffness and the glimpses of warmth and passion that all characterize Mr. Rochester. He is by far the sexiest Mr. Rochester to date, as well. (This does not mean there is anything on the DVD that would be inappropriate for "family viewing"; The character is played so well that the viewer is treated gradually to the endearing qualities that Jane finds in Rochester under that brusque exterior. Ruth Wilson is also good as Jane. If you have not seen other versions and intend to watch multiple versions of Jane Eyre, I recommend saving this one for last because the others, although good, will be a bit of a let-down after having seen this superior version. If you are going to purchase just one to enjoy over and over, this is definitely the one to get, though.

I have always loved the story of Jane Eyre, a young girl orphaned and taken in by a bitter and hateful aunt who sent her to an orphanage during a plague so she would die....but Jane rose up to be well educated, observant and wise.
She becomes a governess to the wealthy Mr. Rochester's ward, Adele. The movie begins with dark moody/haunting overtones as Mr. Rochester's family secrets come to light. The second DVD reveals Jane's journey in discovery of herself. She matures into a confident young lady. Character development in this story is done so well. This is a non-sexual romance movie with a beautiful ending. This brilliantly written story reveals Charlotte Bronte's talent and intelligence as well the the actors and actresses ability to capture their characters 100% and never drop the ball. If you liked Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle in Pride and Prejudice, you must get this movie!!! It will never gather dust on your shelf! This is a winner!!!!!

This is an absolutely fabulous movie! Toby Stephens and Ruth Wilson are amazing. Their feelings for the characters are shown so clearly on their faces. These two actors are TRUE actors...They truly make you feel like you know the characters! They become Jane and Rochester!
The music in this film is wonderful. The mood is not only set by the actors, but felt through the amazing arrangement of the music.
I watched this on PBS and had to purchase it and add it to my collection.
E-bay is where I found it for the cheapest price.
There have been other Jane Eyre movies, but this is truly the ONLY one in my book.
You will not go wrong if you add this movie to your collection!