Jane Eyre MPAA Rating: PG Entertainment: +3 1/2 Content: +4

Set in the mid-1800s in rural England, JANE EYRE has mystery, romance and gorgeous scenery mixed in with a sometimes dark but inspiring tale. Jane (Anne Paquin), an unwanted orphan, is sent to an orphanage by her selfish, cruel aunt. Jane's intelligence, curiosity and determination overcome the harsh treatment she is subjected to at the austere, dismal school. She matures into a highly qualified teacher, played by Charlotte Gainsbourg, with a deep love for children. Jane is hired as a governess to a lonely little girl living with a caretaker (Joan Plowright) in a huge gothic mansion. The girl's seldom seen guardian, Rochester (William Hurt), is fond of her, but seems to harbor a deep sorrow that prevents any closeness. Mysterious noises at night, an unexplained fire and dark secrets from the past contrast sharply to the joy Jane brings into the Rochester estate. Anyone who has read Charlotte Bronte's classic story will be enchanted by this film.

Except for one exclamatory damn you, JANE EYRE has no offensive language. Still, parental guidance is called for as some of the scenes could upset sensitive youngsters. Jane's aunt locks her in a dark closet as punishment, and the austere headmaster at the orphanage subjects all to harsh treatment in the name of Christianity. Jane is forced to stand for hours on a box while the other children eat their supper. Another little girl's beautiful red curls are cut because exposing them was a sign of vanity. The dark secrets in the Rochester estate lead to some scary incidents, but are not gratuitous. A mysterious stranger appears one night and later is shown with a gaping wound. Later a massive fire destroys the mansion, causing the loss of two lives and serious injury of another. But JANE EYRE is basically a celebration of the human spirit as this gentle woman overcomes so many barriers before she finds personal happiness. Her capacity to forgive and the friendship she offers a dying orphan are truly inspirational.

Preview Reviewer: Mary Draughon
Distributor: Miramax Films, 18 E. 48th St., NY, NY 10017