Um Jardim Especial

7.6 stars.

This film feels like you are present in the wild hills of Ireland and the arid deserts of Ethiopia. We are presented with a very intricate tapestry of nature and how the various peoples of the world are closely linked together with it and with each other through the gentle power and magic of nature.

Somehow this film brings to life the wildness of it all, almost to another plane of existence. It's a cluster of emotions obviously evoked by the cinematography and music. The acting is intriguing. The female lead is a wonderful down-to-earth old soul who can envision a world full of life once again, with trees, plants and flowers abounding. The male lead, however, was suspicious. That's the closest word I can think of.

I enjoy this movie for her artistic endeavors and indomitable spirit. The actress and the production are brilliant. Some of the other characters are interesting. The male lead is odd, but obviously gorgeous as far as I can tell, being that I'm a man.

'Dare to Be Wild' was so clumsy in its sentimentality and over-the-top ridiculous in how it portrayed the uptight gardeners and clients that the message of supporting wild areas was almost entirely lost.

Such a shame the criticism of this film. I found it a lovely story, and it wasn't fiction, but based on a real woman who dared greatly to be different. I, for one, found it beautifully inspiring. Yes, the odd "fairy" stuff that popped in briefly a couple times was a little hokey, if you even notice it, but I found it a symbolic representation of her profound positivity & spirit which drove her forward. I didn't find her mopey or begging: each challenge she faced with surprising optimism & brave problem-solving to do what she did. Her designs are modest & inspired. Truly different

I absolutely loved this film and was pleasantly surprised to see the part on the travel to Lalibela! The film might be based on a true story, about the adventures of a young, nature loving Irish woman who sets out to create and preserve natural sacred spaces (i.e. Celtic Sanctuary, etc.) The story takes place in Ireland, England, and in the high-hills of Ethiopia at a sacred site called Lalibela. For those with green sensibilities and appreciation for travel, especially to remote places that we don't get much exposed to, then this film is quite a treat! The landscape in the high-hills of Ethiopia, the natural lifestyles, the people, the costumes, the religious ceremonies etc. were all beautiful to see. The film is well done with a great cast and its message is simple but potent.

I didnt know anything about the movie going in as it was suggested to me on Netflix. So it wasn't until the ending notes that I knew it was based on a true story's

The movie has a great message based on the dreams of the heroine and hero... Mary and Christy of being able to replant the earth from what climate change and modern development has deprived areas and our memories from the beauty of nature.

The romance aspect was nicely organic and grew as they realized they were sharing the same ideas and dreams.

Anyway, in short. I liked it. Great work for first time director Vivienne and I also enjoyed the cinematography.