Director Joji Fukunaga has imposed a bold new vision on the timeless classic, “Jane Eyre.” Through direction and seamless cinematography he has been able to capture the ominous, romantic, and complicated emotions of the characters.
Mia Wasikowska (“Alice in Wonderland”) and Michael Fassbender (“Inglorious Basterds”) star in the romantic drama based on Charlotte Brontë’s classic novel, from director Fukunaga.
“Jane Eyre” is the emotionally rich tale of a young, suppressed woman, Jane Eyre (Wasikowska), who embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Along the way she meets Edward Rochester (Fassbender), master of the Thornfield Hall, resides in his estate and there, finds a love interest in him. Her relationship with Rochester, however, is complicated by Thornfield secrets and Jane’s personal ambitions.
“[Jane is faced with] the choice to follow the life of her heart or to follow a life that is pragmatic,” Jamie Bell (“Defiance”), who plays the character of St. John Rivers, said.
Even though “Jane Eyre” was written in the 19th century, the story remains relevant to audiences, especially women, today.
“It is primarily about self-respect and finding yourself as an individual and doing what you have to do to find self-fulfillment on your own and to respect yourself, which can be really hard,” Wasikowska said.
Wasikowska continued to say that Jane was an extremely strong character and instead of letting her dark past ruin her “she became stronger.”
“If [Jane] were to live in our society today she would just thrive. She is so tough and complex,” Wasikowska said.
Many of the other actors were also in awe of Jane’s strength. Academy Award winner Judi Dench, who plays the character of Mrs. Fairfax, describes Jane to be “a really romantic heroine.”
Brontë’s novel was published in 1847 and therefore the storyline reflects the oppressive society of Brontë’s time. During the 19th century women were only able to gain recognition through marriage, however Brontë is defiant to this stature. In the original novel she writes Jane’s words, “Women feel just as men feel; they need exercise for their faculties.” Like Brontë, Jane is also defiant as she tries to expand beyond the barriers set for women during that time.
Not only is the story of Jane Eyre relatable to women, but high school students can find the plot relatable as well. Jane is an outsider and this is recognized at the beginning of her story. Just like students in today’s society Jane embarks on a journey of finding herself and fitting in.
Alongside Wasikowska, Fassbender, Bell and Dench the movie also stars Golden Globe winner Sally Hawkins, Holliday Grainger, Tamzin Merchant, and Imogen Poots.
The film will open in theaters starting Mar. 11 and is rated PG-13. Click here to view the film’s trailer.
