Common Sense Media Review
By Tom Cassidy
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Friendship and teamwork shine in classic book adaptation.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
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The Secret Garden (1987)
What's the Story?
At the start of THE SECRET GARDEN, Mary Lennox (Gennie James) is spoiled by servants and neglected by her parents in colonial India. But when her parents die, she is sent to live in an English stately home. There she finds a secret garden that soon brings out the best in Mary and those around her, including a bed-bound boy called Colin (Jadrien Steele).
Is It Any Good?
This 1987 made-for-TV version of The Secret Garden is a delightful adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett's timeless children's book. Despite some small screen trappings such as hokey British accents from the young cast and obvious ad-break edits, its sharp script and stellar performances give the movie a timeless quality. Its uplifting message of hope radiates throughout.
Young stars James and Steele work brilliantly together and are supported by British screen veterans Billie Whitelaw, Derek Jacobi, and Michael Horden. Colin Firth, who stars in a 2020 remake of the movie, also appears in one of his first roles. The cast are given great dialogue and deliver it with relish. The movie wonderfully celebrates curiosity, friendship, and the ability to change, but never labors the point, instead breezing along effortlessly.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about friendship in The Secret Garden (1987). How did sharing their problems with each other help Mary and Colin overcome their issues? Discuss how working with others can give a fresh perspective.
Lots of adults lied to Mary about the moaning in the house because they had been told to keep Colin secret. Talk about whether Mary was right to follow her curiosity and question authority.
Mary changes for the better when she dedicates her time to improving the garden. Discuss the benefits of spending time outdoors and the feeling of having a purpose.
How does this adaptation compare to the book? What are your likes and dislikes about movies based on books?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : November 30, 1987
- Cast : Gennie James , Barret Oliver , Jadrien Steele
- Director : Alan Grint
- Studio : CBS Films
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Book Characters , Friendship , STEM
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Curiosity , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 100 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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