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Jane Eyre (1943)
What Genre Is It? Romance/Drama Why Watch This Version of Jane Eyre? Joan Fontaine plays Jane Eyre in this 1943 adaptation. Joan’s facial expressions (especially the haunting look in her eyes), and her ability to capture the meek nature of Jane Eyre make this particular film version of this timeless classic stand out. Joan Fontaine captures the core of this character so perfectly it is hard to imagine anyone else playing this role more exceptionally during the time of this filming. Complimenting Joan Fontaine’s performance is Orson Welles. His vocal technique and powerful transformation into the domineering, mysterious employer make him an excellent Mr. Rochester. Some might say that Orson…
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Rebecca (1940)
What Genre is it? Mystery/Romance Why Watch Rebecca? A Hitchcock masterpiece, Rebecca tells the tale of a young woman (Joan Fontaine) who falls in love with a troubled widower Maxim de Winter (Laurence Olivier). Far and wide, the de Winter name is famously associated with the gorgeous Manderley estate. It is only natural that after the young woman and Maxim marry, they are eager to return to Manderley; that is until the house comes into view. Dread and foreboding seem to wait for the happy couple. The well-kept gardens, intricate architecture, and ocean view are not all that encompass Manderley. Secrets of the first Mrs. de Winter, who died the…
