Thelongestfilm.com – “Flowers in the Attic” a 2014 drama-thriller film directed by Deborah Chow. It is based on the novel of the same name by V.C. Andrews. Here’s a synopsis and a review of the film:
Synopsis Flowers in the Attic
“Flowers in the Attic” follows the story of the Dollanganger children: Cathy (played by Kiernan Shipka), Christopher (played by Mason Dye), and their younger twin siblings, Cory and Carrie. After their father dies in a car accident, the family faced with financial difficulties. Their mother, Corrine (played by Heather Graham), decides to take them to live with her wealthy parents in their grand mansion.
Upon arrival at Foxworth Hall, the children are hidden away in the attic, isolated from the rest of the family. Corrine’s parents, Olivia (played by Ellen Burstyn) and Malcolm (played by Dylan Bruce), disapprove of their daughter’s previous marriage and consider the children a disgrace. As the days turn into weeks and then months, the children endure neglect, mistreatment, and the dark secrets of their family history.
As Cathy and Christopher reach adolescence, they develop a complicated relationship that blurs the lines between sibling affection and forbidden love. They struggle to navigate their feelings while dealing with the constant threat of discovery and the oppressive environment created by their cruel and manipulative grandmother.
Review Flowers in the Attic
“Flowers in the Attic” received mixed reviews from both critics and audiences. The film criticized for its heavy reliance on melodrama and its sometimes uneven pacing. However, it praised for the performances of the cast, particularly Kiernan Shipka and Ellen Burstyn.
The film explores dark and taboo themes, including incestuous undertones, manipulation, and abuse, which can be uncomfortable and disturbing for some viewers. It delves into the psychological impact of a dysfunctional family dynamic and the consequences of secrets and lies.
The production design and cinematography effectively capture the oppressive atmosphere of the attic and the grandeur of Foxworth Hall. The performances of Kiernan Shipka and Mason Dye as the elder siblings are notable, conveying the complexities and conflicting emotions of their characters.
While the film stays relatively faithful to the source material, some fans of the novel were disappointed by certain changes made in the adaptation. The ending, in particular, altered from the book’s conclusion, which led to mixed reactions.
Overall, “Flowers in the Attic” is a dark and unsettling drama that explores the themes of family dysfunction and forbidden desires. It recommended for those who enjoy psychological thrillers and are familiar with the source material. However, due to its sensitive subject matter, it may not be suitable for all audiences.
