Directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga. Starring Mia Wasikowska, Michael Fassbender, Judi Dench and Jamie Bell

Since Charlotte Brontë’s novel was written over 160 years ago, there have been 18 film adaptations and nine for TV. On paper, this latest attempt to bring Jane Eyre to the screen looked to be little more than an opportunity for Judi Dench to get dressed up in period costume and do a funny accent.

But if you can get past the overly-symbolic scenery and slightly dodgy accents, the portrayal of the tragic central relationship in this film is very moving. Mia Wasikowska’s Jane manages to be passionately self-contained, while Michael Fassbender as Mr Rochester isn’t so cruel that you lack sympathy for him. Altogether, a slow-burning take on a classic gothic romance.

Released in cinemas on 9 September

Tags: Film, Jane Eyre