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

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.