Like I so often do when it comes to new film news, I’d already forgotten about the upcoming existence of an all-new adaptation of The Secret Garden. Perhaps this is because, while I do enjoy this story, it’s not my most favorite. That said, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t re-watch the Hallmark Hall of Fame adaptation of the story numerous times in my childhood. It was also one of my aunt’s very favorite films. Recently the promotional material began with a new The Secret Garden trailer.
Penned by Frances Hodgson Burnett (author of A Little Princess), this 1911 publication tells the story of a young orphan girl who’s sent to live with her uncle. Bereaved by the loss of his wife, young Mary is left to entertain herself, and soon she begins to explore the manor she’s meant to call home. As time passes, she befriends a maid named Martha, her brother Dickon, and eventually, she finds she has a cousin her own age whose existence she knew nothing of. Along with new friendships, the uncovering of a secret garden begins to enchant the once obnoxious Mary Lenox, and so the story goes…
Like I said, I’ve never considered The Secret Garden a favorite story, but I have seen two adaptations and writing about it now makes me want to revisit them, both of which take different approaches in their telling of the story.
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Like those that came before it, this upcoming 2020 adaptation also appears to take a new approach. This one looks more like it’ll be magical realism more than the “magic” of a real garden that’s been neglected, but was once a beautiful place, a simple reason is what makes it so magical. However, like the 90s version, this one seems to approach the idea of a magical garden as more of a “fantasy” period piece.
Another thing that stands out about this first trailer is the lack of anything “substantive.” Still, since this is a beloved work of literature, all is forgiven, and we can instead, sit back, and enjoy this spot of magic.
Oh, yeah, and in addition to Julie Walters and the young newcomers, did I mention, Colin Firth stars…! (Fun fact, Firth was on screen in the 80s version for ten – twenty…? – seconds as the grown up, Colin.)
I realize this is “old news” by now since this trailer dropped, what, Tuesday… or was it Wednesday? I don’t know, but either way, it’s been in the world a while now. Still, I had to share some of my thoughts, and of course, the trailer.
THE SECRET GARDEN TRAILER
What are your thoughts? Do you like the looks of this 2020 Secret Garden trailer? Do you think it will work well with its approach as more of a fantasy magic period piece? Or do you think you’ll prefer the realistic version? Comment down below with all of your thoughts; I’d love to chat with you about this latest ‘costume drama’ news.
This looks absolutely divine. I loved this story as a child. Thanks for sharing.
My pleasure, Debra. Hope you enjoy this eventual release. :)