The Secret Garden

The Secret Garden

Year: 1993

Runtime: 101 min

Language: English

Director: Agnieszka Holland

DramaFantasyFamily

After losing her parents in a devastating earthquake, a young British girl is sent to live with her reclusive uncle at his grand estate. There, she discovers a neglected and hidden garden, locked away for years. As she tends to the overgrown space and befriends a local boy, she uncovers long-held family secrets and finds healing and connection amidst the beauty of the rediscovered paradise.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen The Secret Garden yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – The Secret Garden (1993)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Secret Garden (1993). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Early 1900s

The movie is set at the turn of the 20th century, a time marked by significant social change and the British Empire's colonial presence in India. This era witnessed a shift in familial structures and emotional landscapes, especially for children who experienced abandonment and resentment.

Location

India, Liverpool, England, Misselthwaite Manor

The story takes place in the early 20th century, beginning in India where Mary Lennox experiences neglect in a vibrant cultural context. Following a significant earthquake, she is transported to Misselthwaite Manor in Liverpool, England, a cold and gloomy estate owned by her grieving uncle. The manor, filled with secrets, contains a long-forgotten garden that symbolizes hidden beauty and potential.

🏰 Manor 🌸 Garden 🇮🇳 India

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:05

Main Characters – The Secret Garden (1993)

Meet the key characters of The Secret Garden (1993), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Mary Lennox

Mary Lennox is a ten-year-old girl whose life changes dramatically after losing her parents. Initially characterized by bitterness and a rebellious spirit, she evolves into a compassionate and determined individual. Her journey of self-discovery is pivotal as she learns about love, friendship, and the importance of nurturing both the garden and her relationships.

👧 Girl 🌍 Transformation ❤️ Resilience

Colin Craven

Colin Craven is Mary’s cousin, initially portrayed as isolated and sickly due to his lack of self-esteem. His character undergoes significant growth as he learns to confront his fears with Mary’s encouragement. Through their friendship, he discovers a newfound strength and the joy of exploring the world beyond his room.

👦 Cousin 💔 Grief 🌟 Growth

Dickon

Dickon is Martha's brother and a nature enthusiast who befriends Mary. His gentle and nurturing spirit helps both Mary and Colin connect with the garden and with their own emotions. He embodies the themes of friendship and the healing power of nature, playing a crucial role in revitalizing the garden.

🌳 Nature Lover 🧑‍🌾 Companion ✨ Inspiration

Lord Archibald Craven

Lord Archibald Craven is Mary’s uncle, burdened by grief over the loss of his wife. Initially depicted as somber and distant, he gradually reconnects with joy through Mary and Colin. His journey highlights the regenerative power of familial bonds and the importance of moving forward from past traumas.

👨‍🦳 Uncle 😢 Grief 💞 Reconnection

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:05

Major Themes – The Secret Garden (1993)

Explore the central themes of The Secret Garden (1993), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌱 Rebirth

The theme of rebirth is central to the narrative, as both the garden and characters undergo significant transformations. Mary, once bitter and neglected, becomes a nurturing figure, reviving the garden and her relationships. The flourishing garden parallels the healing journey of Mary and Colin, illustrating the power of love and connection.

🤝 Friendship

Friendship plays a crucial role in the film, particularly in the bond between Mary, Colin, and Dickon. Their alliance provides solace and support as they navigate their individual struggles, symbolizing the strength found in companionship. Together, they foster a nurturing environment that allows for mutual growth and healing.

🌿 Nature

Nature is depicted as a healing force, represented by the secret garden. It serves as a sanctuary where the children can confront their grief and rediscover joy. The revitalization of the garden mirrors their emotional journeys, emphasizing the importance of connecting with the natural world as a means of personal and collective transformation.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:05

Unlock the Full Story of The Secret Garden

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Secret Garden in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Secret Garden is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Secret Garden Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Secret Garden, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Secret Garden Summary

The Secret Garden Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Secret Garden with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Secret Garden Timeline

More About The Secret Garden

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Secret Garden: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About The Secret Garden

Similar Movies to The Secret Garden

Discover movies like The Secret Garden that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.