Moon Garden

'Moon Garden' is a unique and beautiful movie. Sadly, viewers who don't have an active imagination will never understand it. 'Moon Garden' is a sublime metaphorical visualization of thoughts, memories and events - from a child's perspective.

'Moon Garden' tells the story of 5-year old Emma (brilliantly portrayed by Haven Lee Harris). One night, when she tries to stop her parents (played by Augie Duke and Brionne Davis) from fighting again, she slips and falls down the stairs, leaving her in a coma. Whilst in this state, she enters the Moon Garden. Doctors fighting for her life, become part of her unconscious mind in the most surreal manner. The visuals, make-up and practical effects are stunning, brought to life by excellent stop-motion photography.

This was a very demanding role for Haven Lee Harris and throughout the film her performance never ceased to amaze me. This little girl is given so much to do and she excels in every scene.

The film literally is the stuff nightmares are made of. It reminded me of a mix between 'Pan's Labyrinth', 'Rigor Mortis', and especially 'Imaginaerum', a film that shares a similar premise about a man suffering from dementia. Despite the bizarre imagery and somewhat weird narration, 'Moon Garden' is also an emotionally charged film - if you are able to interpret it, that is. This is a modern fantasy horror masterpiece and quite frankly one of the most amazing films I've seen lately. I feel so sorry for those who don't understand the film...

'Moon Garden' has to be seen to be believed! Every frame of every scene is perfection. The inclusion of Harry Nilsson's 'Without You' added a magical, yet emotional touch. 'Moon Garden' is an instant favourite.

If you have been diagnosed with epilepsy or have ever had a seizure induced by strobe lights, this is NOT FOR YOU. If the idea of that is disturbing for you, even though you are not epileptic, this is NOT FOR YOU. The cinematographer was given the leeway to produce a film that is consistently jarring, from the moment the audience enters the 'fantasy world' - the film style flashes.and jumps in absurdly rapid stop motion. Used more sparingly, this could have been effective as a scare tactic, but as it is, it is over-utilized, hard to watch and ruins the experience. Further, the production values are such that portions of the fantasy world feel as though (and probably were) filmed in someone's basement, with discarded hot water heaters and the like used to create monsters, some of it I believe was actually the filming of some kid's diorama project; even for an Indie film, this feels low end, like a first time passion project, rather than a professional film.

All of that said, the young actress is phenomenal, showcasing a sense of wonder, even among the horror elements and carries the film, but could carry a good film with a stronger script and production. The very picture of innocence, in stark contrast to just about everything else portrayed. The mother is also absolutely terrifying, even when it's not the intention of the scene. The fantasy world actors surpass expectations, but...

I would avoid this director and the mother actress again at all costs. The last few minutes are an uplifting redemption arc for the film, but it's too little, too late, in terms of quality.

This was a wild and beautiful fever dream that gave me an amalgamation of vibes reminiscent of Pans Labyrinth, The Evil Within and Silent Hill. I've had this movie on my radar for at least the past year or so, so I was pleased to sit down and finally give it a view.

While we got our 2 base storylines down - the real world physical and emotional trauma and then the fantasy manifestation of said traumas... otherwise, there wasn't all too much else that satiated my desire for a substantial plot or storyline. I felt like I was really missing a "tale" more than "trying to get home" that I was really wanting. I felt it leaned more towards the cerebral side with a plethora of metaphors, symbolism, allegories and a general "artsy-fartsy" take. On one hand, this added to the beauty, chaos and dream like state of confusion. On the other hand, it left me a little wanting and looking for something to cling my attention onto to stay engaged.

And yet, at the same time it was impossible to look away from the screen. This movie was a literal visual feat. I mean, this was pretty next level. The visuals, imagery, concepts, effects, sets and props and so much more really took up for a lot that I felt was missing. As stated, it is certainly reminiscent of things, but I'd dare to say you have never seen anything that is quite exactly like this before.

I don't know if it was the platform I was viewing this on or a stylistic choice or what but there were continual fade to black cuts as if they were cutting to a commercial that were very odd. It almost gave me a sense of nostalgia but primarily were distracting. Also the acting here was a bit distracting as well. Not the worst I've ever seen but not my favorite. However, shout out to the princess, she gave a lovely monologue.

All in all this was a very intriguing and unique experience. I don't think this will be everyone's cup of tea and will certainly be polarizing for people... but good art always is. I would encourage you to give it a shot. 6.5 rounding up to a 7, would recommend.

This is sitting at a 6?! Thats a shame. If something with fairly low production values can still engage you and be visually stunning, that's an achievement. Add some very good acting and writing and you've got a classic. Kudos to young Haven Lee Harris, she carried an amazing, independent film extremely well on those little shoulders. Everyone else was great too so that is saying something. This is the kind of project Netflix or other streaming services should invest in. The filmmakers did an amazing job on what I can only assume is a shoestring budget. And yet I was dazzled by some seens in a way I rarely see in bigger budget films (the scene where the headless woman stands under the portraits comes to mind).

Extremely well made movie. The little girls acting was incredible. I was expecting more of a horror movie but it is more of a dreamy, surreal movie, with a little horror sprinkled in. However, the movie features one of the best horror character designs I've seen in a long time.

Effects and soundtrack were awesome too.

It's a sad story, but also a positive one, and makes you think about your own relationships with your spouse and children.

I would love to see another film made by this director. His style is very interesting and it's been a long time since I've seen a truly unique "horror" movie until this.