Jane Eyre

I recently listened to the "Jane Eyre" audiobook, and LOVED the story. It was quite long, but such an interesting story (especially considering that it was written in the mid-1800s). I immediately Googled what movies were available, and found that a new version was just coming out. I was so excited to see it! Then I found out that it was a limited release. But, after a month or so, it came to a local theater and I got some friends together to watch it with me.

Although the movie starts in the middle of the story and uses flashbacks to cover Jane's early life, I thought it was well done. I think almost everything important was included. Unfortunately, the end was HORRIBLE! So short, and Mr. Rochester was gagable in his unkempt appearance.

My friends and I decided we need to have another girls' night to watch the 2006 BBC version.

North and South

When my mom told me the title for this movie, I assumed it was based on the Civil War, but it is not. North and South is based on the book by Elizabeth Gaskell that is set in 19th Century England. Produced as a TV production by BBC (I love BBC productions, so I was won over almost immediately), the movie has 4 segments. It is the story of a middle class southerner who is forced to move to the industrial north. It shows the harshness of the industrial revolution, juxtiposed with the goodness of people. If you loved the BBC production of Pride and Prejudice, you will love this. My mom bought it, but I think it is available from Netflix.

Let me know what you think of it if you find time to watch it. I LOVED it.

(On a side note, BBC also produced Wives and Daughters, also by Elizabeth Gaskell, so if you have lots of time, it is worth watching as well. However, North and South was my absolute favorite!) I want to read both books now, but with a one-year-old, that hasn't quite happened yet.