Jane Eyre (1910 film)
| Jane Eyre | |
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A film still from the lost work
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| Produced by | Thanhouser Company |
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Release date
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| Country | United States |
| Language | Silent film English inter-titles |
Jane Eyre is a 1910 American silent short classic drama produced by the Thanhouser Film Corporation. Adapted from Charlotte Brontë's 1847 novel, Jane Eyre, the film mirrors the events and plot of the original book. The writer of the scenario is unknown, but Lloyd Lonergan probably adapted the work. The film's director is often and erroneously claimed to be Theodore Marston, but Barry O'Neil or Lloyd B. Carleton are possible candidates. The cast of the film was credited, an act rare and unusual in the era.
This was the first American, first English language and second or third worldwide movie adaptation, of at least 27 film and television versions – of the novel. Such repeated dissemination has made the Brontë sisters' two major works ubiquitous.
The single reel film, approximately 1000 feet long, was released on May 6, 1910. It was later credited by Edwin Thanhouser as marking the assured success of the company. The popularity of the production resulted in the production of additional copies, so the Thanhouser company had more orders than could be filled. Critical reception to the film was generally positive, but with some minor criticisms. The film is presumed lost.
This shortened and streamlined version of Jane Eyre follows the overall themes of the original novel. The condensed events were summarized and the official synopsis was published in the The Moving Picture World. It states, "Jane Eyre is left an orphan and penniless at the age of 14. She is adopted by her uncle, who has ample means of providing for her, and who also loves her dearly. Her uncle's kin, however, consider her adoption as an intrusion, do all in their power to prevent her becoming a member of the family. But her uncle insists on her remaining, and during his lifetime she receives some degree of kindness and consideration. Unfortunately, Uncle Reed dies and leaves Jane without a friend in the world. She is sent to an orphan asylum by her unfeeling aunt. Five years later she leaves the asylum to [accept] the position of governess to Lord Rochester's little niece. The child is the daughter of Rochester's dead brother. Her mother has become insane and is living in Lord Rochester's home, under his protection."
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