The most recent big screen adaptation of Jane Eyre will be shown on BBC Two this afternoon (Sat) and is perfect for a downcast weekend
Charlotte Owen
08:00, 01 Nov 2025
People keen for a cosy Saturday afternoon drama are in for a treat with an adaptation of the classic book, Jane Eyre, being shown on BBC Two today.
There have been countless film and TV adaptations of Charlotte Bronte’s gothic romance and coming-of-age novel but the most notable recent big screen version, which will air on TV today, was released in 2011 starring Mia Wasikowska, Michael Fassbender and Jamie Bell.
Described as a ‘feast for the eyes’ by reviewers, it’s got an 85% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and Wasikowska’s turn as the title role earned her an accolade in Time magazine as one of the Top 10 Movie Performances of 2011.
Following the story of Jane Eyre, the Bronte classic tells of Jane’s difficult childhood with her cruel aunt to her role as a governess at Thornfield Hall, where she falls in love with her employer, Edward Rochester.
A much-beloved classic, adaptations must tread a fine line to gain audience approval. Fortunately, this 2011 retelling appeared to get it right and a review by New York Times critic A. O. Scott described it as ‘neither a radical updating nor a stiff exercise in middlebrow’.
Rotten Tomatoes reviewers agreed with one writing: “Simple and beautiful at once. Stunning photography and great acting. A movie for my heart.”
Another said: “Totally wonderful smolderingly passionate version of the classic book with perfect casting and marvellous cinematography. A film to watch again and again.”
Another perfectly captured what it is to watch a film in the middle of a weekend day in November and said: “What is it about a period drama that is so perfect on a rainy day/sick day? Gorgeous cinematography and lighting – from the warm glow of a fire, to the misty moors, to the golden spring sunshine. Sorrowful wailing of the violin adding to the haunting vibe. Mia and Michael play their parts exceptionally well.”
While there are no new film or TV adaptations of Charlotte Bronte’s work coming up, there is a major new adaptation of her sister, Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights currently in production.
Starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi as Cathy and Heathcliffe, the film is due out in February next year. Until then, Bronte fans will have to tune into BBC Two at 2:50pm today (Sat) to get their latest fix of a reimagined classic.