Ellen Page has been tapped to take the lead in a film adaptation of Jayne Eyre. We get the scoop from the professionals at Variety:
Ellen Page is set to play one of English literature’s most famous characters, the eponymous heroine of Charlotte Bronte’s “Jane Eyre.” Alison Owen of Ruby Films, who most recently produced “The Other Boleyn Girl,” is working with BBC Films to develop the new adaptation of Bronte’s classic 19th century romance. It’s the story of a mousy governess who softens the heart of her surly employer Mr. Rochester, only to discover that he’s hiding a terrible secret.
Moira Buffini has written the screenplay. No director is yet attached, but the producers are aiming to set the project up to shoot this fall. “Jane Eyre” is one of the most adapted novels in English literature, with at least 20 previous film or TV versions. Most recently, the BBC made it into a miniseries that won three Emmys last year. The last bigscreen adaptation, in 1996, was directed by Franco Zeffirelli and starred Charlotte Gainsbourg.
Well Ellen Page certainly seems to be shoring up some sweet gigs post Oscar nod.
Jane Eyre has more adaptations than Wurthering Heights! For some reason, I have missed every incarnation…. maybe it has something to do with the fact that it’s a romantic period piece, and I usually find them to be dreadfully boring.
I was surprised when I didn’t hate The Other Boleyn Girl. If Alison Owen is behind this project as well, I will certainly give her the benefit of the doubt, and give this film a chance.
I once again turn to people that have read more books than I, and beseech the International Friends for their thoughts on this story. Do you think Ellen Page is a good fit for the character, or would you prefer another? Please give suggestions if you have someone in mind.
