Trailer

The Chalk Garden

1964Movie1 h 45 min

60
DecentGoodWatch score

A cathartic, intriguing drama movie about family and mystery, with standout performances and characters.

Good for date night · friends night · teens

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Not for scares or laughs.

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Story

A girl on the verge of womanhood... a woman on the edge of loneliness... both suspicious of affection, yet starved for love.

The peculiar antics of Laurel, an emotionally troubled young girl, are the focus of The Chalk Garden – a stately household drama set on the cliffs of the English south coast. Edith Evans plays a matriarchal grandmother who, in raising her granddaughter, has neglected her other love – a barren chalk garden. Mayhem ensues as Laurel's behavior frightens away a succession of governesses until an enigmatic one is hired in spite of her mysterious references. She skillfully sets about tending to the girl's reckless emotions and the pitifully failed garden.

Feels like

  • Gothic Drama
  • Dysfunctional Family
  • Emotional Turmoil
  • Strong Performances
  • Intriguing Mystery
  • Character-Driven Narrative
  • Social Commentary
  • British Setting

Cast

Crew

Directed by
Ronald Neame
Produced by
Ross Hunter

Everyone

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Facts

April 2, 1964 · 1 h 45 min · Drama, Mystery

Released
April 2, 1964
Runtime
1 h 45 min
Genres
Drama, Mystery
Original language
English
Made in
United Kingdom, United States
Available in
2 countries