A young British girl born and reared in India loses her neglectful parents in an earthquake. She is returned to England to live at her uncle's castle. Her uncle is very distant due to the loss of his wife ten years before. Neglected once again, she begins exploring the estate and discovers a garden that has been locked and neglected. Aided by one of the servants' boys, she begins restoring the garden, and eventually discovers some other secrets of the manor.
Nominated for 1 BAFTA Film Award3 wins & 6 nominations total
Top Critics Reviews
rotten:
Rather than a fresh breeze, it's the stale air of gilded calculation, the uncomfortable feeling that things are excessively "just so," that overhangs much that is genuinely appealing about this film.
– Kenneth Turan,
Los Angeles Times,
1 Aug 2013
fresh:
This enchanted tale vividly shows how love heals and nurtures barren souls, makes them flourish like abundant Edens.
– Carrie Rickey,
Philadelphia Inquirer,
1 Aug 2013
fresh:
The movie's dark themes, unhurried pace and talkiness make it something of a gamble for many children. But older children -- especially those who have been asking specific questions about death -- may find some nourishment in this garden.
– Jay Boyar,
Orlando Sentinel,
1 Aug 2013
fresh:
While drawing superb performances from her young leads, Holland has masterfully contrasted the garden -- a place where melodic robins seem almost conversant -- with the dread of Misselthwaite.
– Jeff Shannon,
Seattle Times,
1 Aug 2013
fresh:
The result is an instant classic -- rich, dense, resonant, powerful.