The Secret Garden

The Secret Garden

Year: 1993

Runtime: 101 min

Language: English

Director: Agnieszka Holland

DramaFantasyFamily

In this poignant tale of self-discovery, a young British girl's life is forever changed after losing her parents in an earthquake. Sent to live with her distant uncle at his sprawling English estate, she finds solace in a neglected garden, hidden away for years. With the help of a kindred spirit, she unlocks the secrets of the overgrown paradise and, in doing so, uncovers the truth about her family's troubled past.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Secret Garden (1993)
Trace every key event in The Secret Garden (1993) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.
1

Mary's Neglectful Upbringing

Mary Lennox, a ten-year-old girl, is raised in India by neglectful parents. Left in the care of a native servant, her loneliness breeds bitterness and anger, affecting her behavior profoundly.

Cusp of the 20th century India
2

The Earthquake

One night, while Mary's parents are away at a party, an earthquake strikes. The event devastates her home, leading to the tragic death of both her parents and leaving Mary all alone in the world.

Night of the earthquake Mary's home in India
3

Arrival in Liverpool

Six months after the earthquake, Mary arrives at Liverpool, England, aboard a ship. She is picked up by Mrs. Medlock, the head keeper of Misselthwaite Manor, marking the beginning of her new life.

Six months after the earthquake Liverpool, England
4

Meeting Uncle Archibald

Upon arriving at Misselthwaite Manor, Mary is introduced to her reclusive uncle, Lord Archibald Craven. Although he is saddened by her resemblance to her mother, he is reluctant to embrace her presence.

After Mary's arrival Misselthwaite Manor
5

Discovering the Manor's Secrets

Feeling discontent with the cold and gloomy manor, Mary begins to explore its various rooms. She hears mysterious cries at night, prompting her to search for answers about the strange occurrences within the house.

Days after her arrival Misselthwaite Manor
6

The Secret Garden Door

During her explorations, Mary discovers a hidden door in her room leading to abandoned parts of the manor. Inside, she finds a key that fits an old door, arousing her curiosity about the secrets behind it.

Shortly after discovering the cries Misselthwaite Manor
7

The Overgrown Garden

Using the key she found, Mary unlocks a hidden garden that has been neglected for years. Although overgrown, she discovers its potential for beauty, igniting a sense of hope within her.

Shortly after finding the key The Secret Garden
8

Meeting Dickon

While tending to the garden, Mary meets Dickon, Martha's brother, who shares her love for nature. Together, they begin to restore the garden, bringing life back to both the place and Mary's spirit.

While working in the garden The Secret Garden
9

Colin Craven's Introduction

Mary discovers Colin, her cousin, who has been hidden away due to his health concerns. Their meeting reveals Colin's tragic backstory and sets the stage for a transformative friendship.

On one of Mary's visits Colin's room in Misselthwaite Manor
10

Colin's Transformation

Encouraged by Mary and Dickon, Colin begins to engage with the world outside. His first venture outside in his wheelchair marks the beginning of his physical and emotional healing.

Spring arrives Misselthwaite Manor grounds
11

The Night Escape

Fearing for Colin's wellbeing, Mary escapes the manor to meet him and Dickon in the garden. They perform a rite to summon Colin's father home, creating a bond of secrecy and hope among them.

One night The Secret Garden
12

Lord Craven's Return

Colin's father, Lord Craven, is drawn back to the garden after dreaming of his late wife. Upon arriving at the manor, he immediately looks for Colin, challenging the status quo of their family.

Shortly after the children's rite Misselthwaite Manor
13

A Family Reunion

In a moment of surprise, Colin stands for the first time, revealing his secret recovery to his father. The emotional reunion signifies hope and transformation for their fractured family.

After Colin stands The Secret Garden
14

Mary's Healing

After Colin's miraculous transformation, Mary realizes the importance of her role in the family's healing. She learns to embrace her own emotions as the family rekindles their connection.

After the reunion Misselthwaite Manor
15

The Garden as a Sanctuary

The garden becomes a symbol of renewal and connection for Mary, Colin, and Lord Craven. It represents the growth and healing they accomplished together, marking a new chapter in their lives.

As spring flourishes The Secret Garden

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 19:25

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