Okay, let's talk The Secret Garden. That classic tale of a grumpy kid, a neglected garden, and some serious character development. But how many movie versions are there, really? It feels like a lot, doesn't it?
So, What's the Headcount?
Buckle up, buttercup! Because counting Secret Garden movies is surprisingly tricky. We're not just talking straight adaptations here.
The Officially Recognized Crew
First, the obvious ones. There's the 1949 version. All black and white and old-school charm. Then we've got the 1993 version. This one stars a young Kate Maberly, and everyone remembers it fondly (or at least, I do).
And of course, the 2020 version with Dixie Egerickx. A more recent take on the tale. Plus some TV movie versions. But we are focusing on the movie today.
The "Spiritual Successors" (aka, Maybe?)
Now things get interesting. Some folks argue that certain movies borrow heavily from The Secret Garden. They say these movies have similar themes and storylines. So, should these count?
Think movies with kids finding solace in nature. Or maybe stories about neglected estates coming back to life. It is really a stretch to include them in the count.
My Unpopular Opinion: It's Too Many!
Okay, here's where I might lose some of you. I think there are too many versions of The Secret Garden. I said it!
Don't get me wrong, I love the story. The book is fantastic. But how many times can you tell the same tale of a hidden garden and a bratty kid finding happiness? It's getting repetitive.
Each version changes things slightly. But the core remains the same. And sometimes, those changes aren't even improvements. They are, dare I say, just different.
Maybe it's just me. Maybe I'm a grumpy old gardener at heart. But I long for some originality in film. Give us new stories! Or at least, give The Secret Garden a rest.
Finding the *Right* Version
So, how do you choose the right Secret Garden movie to watch? It's all about personal preference. Do you prefer classic black and white films?
Or do you want something more modern and visually stunning? Maybe you love the nostalgia of the 90s. There is no wrong answer here.
Ultimately, the best version is the one you enjoy the most. Even if you, like me, secretly wish they'd leave the poor garden alone for a while!
I am still waiting for a Secret Garden movie that features a singing dragon in the garden. Now that would be a film worth watching. Just kidding... mostly.
So, next time you're scrolling through streaming services, remember this little exploration. And maybe, just maybe, pick something that isn't another remake. Unless it has that dragon, of course.
And now I need to go read the book for the 100th time.
