what it’s about
Early in the twentieth century, ten-year old Mary Lennox (Maberly) goes to live with her uncle, Archibald Craven (Lynch), after her parents are killed in India. His estate in rural England is run by the rigid Mrs. Medlock (Smith). Craven, still grieving his young wife, rarely sees Mary, but on her own she discovers a new friend in young farmhand Dickon (Knott), not to mention her sickly cousin Colin (Prowse), and a secret garden, closed off when her aunt died. This place may have magical properties.
why we love it
Based on a story by Frances Hodgson Burnett, Holland’s subtly beguiling film works cumulatively, and its unadorned, unhurried quality makes it work for adults as well as (older) children. The film is gorgeously shot, thanks to top-flight DP Roger Deakins. The juvenile players turn in charming performances, and Lynch also resonates as the tormented Uncle Archibald. Finally, Smith has a field day (as always) playing the fussy Mrs. Medlock. Stroll through this garden.