The Secret Garden
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Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to The Secret Garden
The Secret Garden (2020) is a British fantasy drama film based on Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic novel, targeting a family audience with a PG rating for thematic elements and mild peril. Set in 1947, it follows orphaned Mary Lennox as she moves to her uncle's secluded Yorkshire estate. There, she discovers a hidden, magical garden that becomes a place of healing and discovery for her and her ailing cousin, Colin, and friend Dickon. The movie explores themes of grief, loss, friendship, and the restorative power of nature, presenting a visually rich narrative that contrasts dark, gloomy interiors with the vibrant, fantastical garden. While offering positive messages about resilience and hope, the film contains mature themes and intense scenes that may be unsettling for younger viewers, making it generally recommended for children aged 8 and above.
Things to Consider
Additional Context
Best For Ages
The film is recommended for children aged 8 and older, with parental guidance suggested for those aged 8-10. This is due to its PG rating, which includes thematic elements concerning death, grief, and isolation, as well as some intense scenes and mild peril. Younger children might find the dark atmosphere, supernatural elements, and themes of loss emotionally challenging and potentially frightening.
Good to Know
The 2020 adaptation of 'The Secret Garden' enhances the magical realism of the original story, presenting the garden itself as a more overtly supernatural entity with healing powers. This artistic choice, while visually stunning, shifts the tone from the more subtle, naturalistic healing depicted in Frances Hodgson Burnett's novel. Parents should be aware that the film delves deeply into themes of grief and loss, with characters experiencing profound sadness and isolation, which may require discussion with younger viewers. The emotional intensity is heightened by the dark visual style of the mansion contrasting with the vibrant garden. The film's timeline is set in 1947, a change from the Edwardian era of the book, which also adds a slightly different historical context.
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