Review: Jane Eyre

Meet the homely Jane Eyre.

It's safe to say that Jane Eyre isn't my favorite type of movie. A period piece based on the book by Charlotte Bronte that has been redone a number of times, it leaves a similar taste in your mouth that the latest Pride & Prejudice movie. Pride & Prejudice wasn't my type of movie either, but I was able to enjoy the great filmmaking and cinematography. The same can be said about Jane Eyre. I was able to enjoy this movie without being particularly interested in the style or plot, thanks to the strong performances and some interesting cinematography.

Jane is played by Mia Wasikowska, who does not look as pretty as she did in The Kids Are Alright, purposefully of course, because Jane is not your average 1800's woman. She's very smart, self sufficient, and moral (The novel is considered to be an early feminist statement in itself). The bulk of the story is based around Jane's stay as a governess (Teacher/Babysitter) at the Rochester residence. Mr. Rochester and her start to have a little electricity between them while something seems very wrong at the house. The movie works well with its eerie tone. It is definitely a darker film than Pride & Prejudice, which makes it more interesting and accessible. The narrative will flash back and forward to other times in her life, helping a very dialogue-heavy plot stay interesting.

The children in this movie are very likable and give great performances along with Mia and Judi Dench. Jane can drag a little bit and you may get lost in the sometimes clever - sometimes cheesy dialogue. For those new to this story, you shouldn't have too hard of time understanding it, the movie is coherent, but I feel like it could have capitalized on some of the more interesting plot elements. A lot of scenes don't necessarily progress the storyline, but look pretty. You start to notice it more as the you start to enter the final act of the 2 hour story.

The good outweighed the bad in Jane Eyre. If you're a fan of this genre of movie or book, then you'll probably enjoy it even more than I did.

Makin Movie Blog Grade