This dual-layered and progressively transferred image is not without flaws and looks fairly rough in spots but detail has moments of strong clarity although contrast is quite washed. Compression artifacts are certainly prevalent and there are plenty of vertical scratches and speckles. There is an original mono track and a stereo one as well as DUBs and optional subtitles. I imagine the film elements (see caveat below) were not in the best condition and it may not have warranted an expensive restoration. I'm sure many are simply grateful that the film is now available - and I think I am in that camp myself.

There are two commentaries available - the first has the wonderful combination of the excessively knowledgeable and prepared Joseph McBride taking the lead with most of the talking with actress Margaret O'Brien (Adele Varens in the film) adding in some interesting personal tidbits that she recalled about production. I found this a very professional and thorough commentary and McBride has a strong clear voice discussing such things as Welles over-the-top performance. It was excellent to listen to with a few gaps where key dialogue is left to run. The second commentary with Nick Redman, Steven Smith and Julie Kirgo also has merit but no one really takes the lead in a concrete direction - Julie is asked various questions about the literary work of Jane Eyre and other details and she is very competent and thorough with her answers - sometimes long-winded. In fact she seems to do much of the talking throughout with long stretches of only her talking. More off the cuff and still interesting, no doubt, but I personally preferred the first commentary. Still it is appreciated and worthwhile to listen to for fans of the book or film! The isolated and often powerful Herrmann score is included for those keen on listening to it without any dialogue. Finally there is a 20 minute featurette entitled Locked in the Tower: the Men Behind Jane Eyre. It has the son and daughter of director Stevenson, giving input on their father and the creation of the production with a bit of a battle between the director and Welles who attempted to unsuccessfully usurp control from him. The featurette includes input from many individuals.

I'm no Jane Eyre expert but I thought this film was marvelous. I really enjoyed my viewings and was just as intrigued during the two commentaries when I found myself watching it again while briefly drifting away from the discussion track(s). This is wonderful classic film that I whole-heartedly recommend - especially at this price with the addition of the thorough supplements. 

Gary W. Tooze