The classic adaptation of the beloved gothic romance novel is currently streaming free on BBC iPlayer.
Other Bennet sister fans should watch the ‘masterpiece’ with the ‘biggest kiss’ (Image: BBC)
BBC iPlayer will stage a “masterpiece” adaptation of the treasured classic novel next month. After broadcast on Sunday (5 July) on BBC Two, the adaptation of Charlotte Brontë’s 1943 novel Jane Eyre will be available on the streaming service for the next 29 days.
Considered one of the greatest novels ever written, this timeless story follows the journey of a young woman, orphaned as a child, who is sent to a harsh boarding school. Ten years later, she takes a job as governess to a young girl under the ward of the mysterious and abrasive master of Thornfield Hall.
Gradually, she falls in love with her unpredictable employer and at the same time begins to unearth the sinister secrets of his past.
Directed by Robert Stevenson, best known for directing the beloved Disney film Mary Poppins, this underrated gothic romance from Hollywood’s golden age stars Joan Fontaine as Jane and Orson Welles as Mr. Rochester.
Fans of The Other Bennet Sister should definitely watch (Image: BBC)
Many film buffs over the years have argued that the film is among the best adaptations of Brontë’s novel ever made. This is undoubtedly essential viewing for audiences who have enjoyed recent romances such as Wuthering Heights and The Other Bennet Sister, or are looking forward to the upcoming versions of Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice, reports the Express.
One 10/10 review from an IMDb user states that while other versions of Jane Eyre are equally stunning, fans should “see this to be completely satisfied.”
“This is simply an exquisite film,” they continued. “Filmmaking at its best in every way; and while it’s not as definitive as the 1983 miniseries, I think overall it’s the best, truest version of JANE EYRE.
Another film enthusiast noted: “Although it’s not exactly true to the book, it’s still the best version of Jane Eyre ever made.
The 1943 version of Jane Eyre is currently available on BBC iPlayer (Image: 20TH CENTURY FOX/GETTY)
“Joan Fontaine is homely but still beautiful, and Orson Welles is incredibly strong and attractive. The chemistry these two share on screen is phenomenal.”
As if that wasn’t enough, they added, “The scene where they kiss is the most intense and beautiful kiss I’ve ever seen.”
Another viewer called it a “masterpiece!” and stated: “Magnificent is the only word that can be applied to this wonderful film. It reflects Hollywood’s ability to sometimes create brilliant films when all aspects of filmmaking come together in such a talented union.”
This classic adaptation stars Joan Fontaine and Orson Welles (Image: 20TH CENTURY FOX/GETTY)
“I first saw this film as a very small child, and it captivated and fascinated me then, as it still does all these years later. Romantic, gothic and mesmerizing, it is as flawless as any film can be.”
One recent fan went even further, enthusing: “In my opinion, this is the best movie ever made. It’s sweet, romantic and true to the book. Joan Fontaine is great in the title role, and I think this is Orson Welles at his best.”
Historical drama fans should make sure this drama tops their watch list before it stops being available for free at the end of the month.
Jane Eyre can be streamed on BBC iPlayer.