Jane Eyre (2006)

About Jane Eyre (2006)

First broadcasted on 24 September 2006 and concluded on 15 October 2006 on BBC One, the Jane Eyre miniseries is a British adaptation of Charlotte Brontë’s famous novel of the same name. The series focuses on the life of a young orphan girl, Jane Eyre, who overcomes her traumatic childhood to become an educated, strong female character. After leaving an oppressive charity school, Jane becomes a governess at Thornfield Hall where she falls in love with the enigmatic and generally cold-hearted master of Thornfield, Mr. Rochester.

Making / Production

The production of Jane Eyre took place primarily in Derbyshire, England. The miniseries was directed by Susanna White and written by Sandy Welch. It was a co-production by the BBC and WGBH Boston.

Actors

• Ruth Wilson as Jane Eyre: Ruth Wilson played the tough, independent protagonist and received praise for her portrayal of the character’s emotional depth and strength.
• Toby Stephens as Mr. Rochester: Stephens portrayed the intimidating yet emotionally wrought character of Mr. Rochester with depth and complexity.
• Lorraine Ashbourne as Mrs. Fairfax: Playing the housekeeper at Thornfield Hall, Ashbourne was admired for her warm and comforting performance, serving as a friendly figure in the intimidating household.
• Tara Fitzgerald as Mrs. Reed: Fitzgerald conveyed the cold and harsh maternal figure, depicting the early struggles Jane had to endure.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The team constructed a façade for Thornfield Hall on location in Derbyshire, which was later digitally extended.
• Ruth Wilson, who played Jane, has stated that Jane Eyre is her favorite novel.
• Some scenes were shot at Haddon Hall in Derbyshire, which had been previously used for other period dramas.

Awards

The series won the Royal Television Society Best Drama Serial Award in 2007. Ruth Wilson was nominated for Best Actress at the 2007 British Academy Television Awards for her performance as Jane Eyre.

Quotes

• "I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will." - Jane Eyre
• "You—you strange—you almost unearthly thing! I love as my own flesh." - Mr. Rochester
• "I would always rather be happy than dignified." - Jane Eyre

Music, Soundtrack

• The opening title music is composed by Rob Lane, emphasizing on the lonely and longing undertone of the narrative.
• The soundtrack largely includes classical string instruments to capture the Victorian era ambiance and the emotions of the characters.