This performance marked Ruth Wilson's first role outside of drama school, and producer Diederick Santer recounted that they ceased their search for actresses the moment she entered the audition room—a sentiment quickly confirmed upon seeing her on screen. Adapting *Jane Eyre* is a difficult undertaking; it requires a number of skilled actors in smaller parts. Consider how much Pam Ferris contributes as Grace Poole…

Jane Eyre presents a significant challenge for any adaptation; it requires skilled performers for the smaller parts, convincing young actors, and an intense Rochester who can captivate various women and elicit admiration from one of literature’s most iconic heroines. There have been many excellent portrayals of Rochester over the years—Orson Welles and William Hurt are just a couple of examples—and Toby Stephens m…