'Captivating' period drama based on literary classic airs on TV today

A "captivating" period drama that's based on a literary classic is set to air on TV today.

Jane Eyre is a 2011 romantic gothic drama film that was directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga from a script by Moira Buffini. The drama is based on Charlotte Brontë's 1847 novel of the same name.

After a bleak childhood, Jane Eyre (played by Mia Wasikowska) goes out into the world to become a governess. As she lives happily in her new position at Thornfield Hall, she meets the dark, cold, and abrupt master of the house, Mr Edward Rochester (Michael Fassbender).

Jane and her employer grow close in friendship and she soon finds herself falling in love with him.

"Happiness seems to have found Jane at last, but could Mr Rochester's terrible secret be about to destroy it forever?" the official synopsis concludes.

The film's cast also includes Jamie Bell as St John Rivers, Judi Dench as Mrs Fairfax, Sally Hawkins as Mrs Reed and Holliday Grainger as Diana Rivers.

The line-up is rounded out by Tamzin Merchant, Simon McBurney, Imogen Poots, Sophia Ward, Su Elliot, Jayne Wisener, Amelia Clarkson, Romy Settbon Moore, Freya Parks, Harry Lloyd, Valentina Cervi, Craig Roberts and Ben Roberts.

Jane Eyre was released in March 2011, and received largely positive reviews from critics. The film was soon branded one of the best Brontë adaptations of all time, with its costume design, led by Michael O'Connor, earning an Oscar nomination.

If you haven't yet watched the classic romance, now's your chance as it is set to air on BBC Two today (Saturday, November 1) at 2.50pm.

Right now, Jane Eyre boasts a certified fresh rating of 85% on review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes from 167 reviews. Meanwhile, the film currently has a 76% audience score, with fans continuing to share their praise on social media.

"I was moved as I've scarcely been before. The story was captivating due in large part to the striking performances of the two lead actors. Excellent film," one person wrote on IMDb.

Another added: "This is the best adaptation of Jane Eyre. The set was realistic and the emotions were raw. Excellent acting all round. Defo one of my top comfort movies."

A third said: "This movie is amazing. The lead actors are mesmerising and the direction is flawless. The soundtrack is gorgeous. One of my favourite movies of all time!"

Jane Eyre will air at 2.50pm on BBC Two on Saturday, November 1