The Secret Garden [1994]

There are two things that I think makes this film stand out. One is the wonderful performances of the child actors in it. None of them are the cute as button starlets we normally have presented to us, which normally sicken as much as entertain. But these are genuinely nice kids, which you can easily relate to, and therefore we're all the more hooked into their experiences and hang on their words and actions. The four young actors who stand out for special mention are Kate Maberly as Mary Lennox, the poor little rich orphan girl sent to live with her uncle, Heydon Prowse as the sickly Colin Craven, Mary's secret cousin, Laura Crossley as the kindly maid Martha who befriends Mary, and my personal favourite Andrew Knott as Dickon, Martha's brother and friend to all the animals.

The other reason is the simply superb performance by Maggie Smith. Always guaranteed to put in a good turn, she is simply miles above the other adult actors and really does give the film that extra little sparkle that really makes it stand out.

All in all, this is a fantastic piece of traditional children's storytelling, but what makes this really special, is the story for children will appeal to all ages, and in this time of crash, bang, wallop action, it's really great to get some decent "watch as a family" film treats.


A wonderful adaptation...   May 22, 2001
20 out of 21 found this review helpful

I enjoyed this adaptation very much. The book has been a favourite of mine ever since discovering it quite by accident at the age of ten, and the thing I liked best about this adaptation is that it does not jar with my memories of the book at all. The feeling of enjoyment and pleasure was almost the same. Those changes which are made are minimal, and the casting excellent. I would recommend this film to anyone who has ever loved the book.


Beautifully made and full of charm...   January 19, 2006
Iceni Peasant (Norfolk, England)
14 out of 15 found this review helpful

I enjoyed this film from start to finish. The atmosphere of the whole movie is enchanting. With wonderful sets and costumes, and good acting from all the children, in particular from the actor playing Rickon.

Maggie Smith is the true gem of the whole piece, as the strict but ultimately caring housekeeper Metlock.
The secret garden itself is beautiful, as you see it through the seasons, and the gradual progress of Colin as he gets stronger and stronger. It's often funny when you see Mary telling off Colin and showing him what life really is. The sets are stunning throughout, with breathtaking moorland scenery a lovely dark foreboding rooms in the house.

As the movie reaches its end you'll find it very hard to stop a tear or two. Just a beautiful movie that all the family will enjoy!


Well worth your money!   August 4, 2004
12 out of 15 found this review helpful

I'm normally not one for seeing a film before I've read the book but this was an exception. I remember watching it for the first time when I was in school and loved it and now as an adult I still love it. The cast is spot on and the little actress who plays Mary did a fantastic job! I'd recomend it to anyone!