Wednesday, August 27, 2008

The Secret Garden – In The Bud

This darkly lavish version of the Frances Hodgson Burnett children’s story makes clear its link to gothic romance; basically it’s Jane Eyre retooled for the sandbox set. Thankfully, director Agnieszka Holland found the perfect young actress to play Mary Lennox, the cynical orphan who brings her self and her uncle’s (John Lynch) gloomy estate into bloom when she discovers a hidden arbor.

With the face of a sour cherub, Maberly becomes a happy camper – she’s likably unlikable. Holland’s lush color scheme loses some oomph on video, but it’s hard to imagine the little loner in your house not taking this one to heart.

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