A strikingly lovely brunette actress, Jane Krige captured attention early on with her elegant presence and undeniable talent. Born in South Africa, Krige pursued a unique academic path, earning a degree in both psychology and drama before making the bold move to the UK at the age of 22 to deepen her craft and launch her acting career. Jane Krige’s refined features—her delicate, high-cheekboned beauty, graceful poise, and crisp speaking voice—have often made her a natural fit for period dramas. In fact, it was her performance in her very first film, Chariots of Fire (1981), that truly put her on the map; she left a vivid impression portraying a woman entangled with a runner during the 1924 Olympics. Around the same time, Jane Krige also made her US television debut as the gentle Lucie Manette in the 1980 adaptation of A Tale of Two Cities, further showcasing her range and quiet charm. Yet, while many saw her as the epitome of classic elegance, Jane Krige has also been called upon to embody a more mysterious allure. Her role in Ghost Story (1981) is a perfect example—she brought a haunting blend of nostalgia and danger to life, playing a seductive, almost feline figure who returns to torment four aging former lovers. Throughout her early work, Jane Krige consistently demonstrated a rare ability to balance ethereal beauty with emotional depth, making her a memorable presence on screen.
When it comes to Alice Krige’s filmography, one standout performance comes from her role in Institute Benjamenta (1995), which happens to be her highest rated movie. Fans and critics alike have praised the unique atmosphere of the film, and Alice Krige’s contribution certainly adds to its acclaim. On the other end of the spectrum, Alice Krige appeared in The Contract (2006), a film that received notably lower ratings compared to her other works. While Alice Krige brought her usual depth to the role, the movie as a whole didn’t resonate as strongly with audiences. So, if you’re exploring Alice Krige’s career highlights, Institute Benjamenta is definitely a must-watch, whereas The Contract might not rank as high on your list. Alice Krige continues to be a compelling presence on screen, no matter the project.