Actually, I can't recall any scene with greenhouse naughtiness, but there is plenty of gardening and a smattering of lustiness. True story or otherwise, this is my favourite British film for a couple of years, including last year's boy in the ballet flick. It's got that expected gentleness in the tale, in spite of the prison setting, but it seems so well made that I forgave its overly romanticised telling. David Kelly, as the terminally ill serial wife killer, was quite superb. I suppose I am being too fanciful to expect him to get a Best Supporting Actor nomination next year, but he certainly deserves it. The rest of the male cast did an adequate job, whilst Helen Mirren shone as the expert gardener. Finally, I have to mention Lucy Punch, if only to say that I was disappointed her part was not as enlarged as her midriff became. 7/10. A film which interested me from start to finish.
Add a Review
-
ih007b207719 September 2001
-
axraupp25 August 2002My wife and I caught this nice, heartwarming film quite by accident. We started watching it as there was nothing else on. Then, as the story progressed, quite rapidly, we were engrossed.
The was quite good, as should be expected by British actors, the cinematography and settings were great and the story was superb, though simple.
Too few of these nice little foreign films get airplay in the States (we are currently living in Taiwan), and it's a shame, because this is a great little film.
"Daysees, pahnsies and buttucups, you blokes are a disgrace to the prison system." -
jhclues12 September 2002According to the old saying there are only two sure things in life: Death and taxes; and while that's all very pithy and emboldening in a way that suggests machismo with a John Wayne swagger, it isn't entirely accurate. Because if there is one constant in life, it's the fact that everyone makes mistakes, and moreover, that if given the chance most will at least attempt to set to rights whatever bitter pill has been wrought by their personal indiscretions and miscalculations, whether felony or misdemeanor. Which is precisely what writer/director Joel Hershman considers in `Greenfingers,' a comedy/drama that seeks out the good in the bad while making a statement about the redemption afforded by the proverbial `Second Chance.' Like the amazing gardens at the center of this story, and in which Hershman's metaphor can be found, this film is about the cycle of life; about death and rebirth and hope. It's a story based on actual events, told by Hershman with warm good humor and in a way that reaches out to the humanity in us all, offered for the contemplation of his audience with an eye upon a world that is in all ways a bit brighter and better.
In his youth, Colin Briggs (Clive Owen) made a mistake; and he's spent fifteen years doing hard time in prison because of it, with no indication that he'll be getting out any time soon, if ever. But the powers that be have decided he's a perfect candidate for an experimental `open prison,' program, an environment without walls that will afford even `lifers' an opportunity for parole if they can make good at it. Initially, Colin is not keen on the idea, but he has no choice in the matter. He's summarily transferred, and once in his new digs he is befriended by Fergus Wilks (David Kelly), an old man who will pay for his crimes until the end of his days, but who has a perspective on life that has a subtle effect on Colin's future. It is Fergus who gives Colin a small gift that ultimately turns his life around-- a small packet of flower seeds which Colin proceeds to plant in an unlikely place in the dead of winter with no hope that anything will ever come of it. Colin, however, is about to discover one of the mysteries of life; that in a seed-- any kind of seed planted anywhere in the world-- there is the gift and promise of life. And the following Spring presents Colin with another gift-- a surprise that is going to change his life forever.
With this film, Hershman has crafted and delivered a story rooted in a subject that is essentially `hard' in nature, but he takes a positive, gentle approach to it that makes it entirely accessible and engaging. It does, in fact, provide an eye-opening perspective to an area that many are prone to view with a closed mind. Many (Roger Ebert among them) will claim that the characters portrayed here are predictable stereotypes, which on one hand is true; but on the other hand, stereotypes are often a reflection of reality, which is decidedly the case here, and moreover, Hershman successfully delves beneath that outer skin from which the label is derived to find the uniqueness that resides at the core of each of these individuals. There are so-called `stereotypical' responses and reactions effected by some of the characters here, as well, but again, within the context of the story, they are no more than a reflection of what a like situation in real life would evoke. In the final analysis, `life' is filled with stereotypes, and what is too often deemed `predictable' is more often than not a depiction of something that would be more accurately described as `inevitable.' All of which Hershman so eloquently conveys in his film.
Though they would never admit it even to themselves, `professional' critics with one too many reviews under their substantial belts are often too jaded to appreciate the nuances of a film like this and take the easy way out, seeing only what they `choose' to see, and unfortunately it is that dismissive attitude that finds it's way into their comments; one even went so far as to say in print that what amounted to his `subjective' opinion was to be taken as the definitive view, inasmuch as he is `paid to know these things.' And it is that attitude that diminishes the credibility of the `professional' critic, and in the end often renders what they do a disservice to the filmmaker and the audience alike, which is the case in point here. And it points up the necessity of seeing and judging for yourself; do not be dissuaded from a good thing by ramblings touted as `educated' under the banner of a byline, beneath which lies a personal agenda that often supersedes any and all objectivity.
Under Hershman's steady hand the story comes to life through a number of solid performances, most notably Owen, who successfully captures the stoic resolve and acceptance of a man who has paid, and continues to pay, for the single misstep of his life. And it's that reserved countenance more than anything else that makes Owen's portrayal so convincing, that sense that he sees his glass as half full and half empty at the same time; a kind of hopeful/hopeless attitude that is entirely believable for a man in his situation.
The standout performance, however, is turned in by Helen Mirren, as Georgina Woodhouse, a kind of `Martha Stewart' of gardening in England. She lends some true blue `character' to her character and adds a bit of spunk and attitude that makes Georgina entirely believable. In a wide-brimmed hat and colorful attire that reflects the beauty of her beloved gardens, she is absolutely radiant. And when you factor in the performances of David Kelly, Warren Clarke and Natasha Little, it makes `Greenfingers' a film not only to be seen, but embraced. 8/10. -
WalterFrith16 September 2001I can't believe the cynicism surrounding this film. It has a nice wholesome quality to it that is lacking in our films today. I love films like 'Scarface', 'GoodFellas' and '48 HRS.' but that doesn't mean I can't like a film like 'Greenfingers'. Taking a group of prisoners and putting them in such a scenario as making them gardeners as part of their rehabilitation is a unique concept for a film. Reviewers, especially American critics must think all prisons around the world are loaded with weapons and power hungry guards and wardens. Countries like Canada, Switzerland and England have less violent criminals and less confrontational authorities. Some are mocking the film's whole premise as absurd but to make it more credible, this film is based on a true story! 'Greenfingers' runs a short 90 minutes, has some good characters that are well developed and jokes that bubble with surprising wit and charm. Examine the cast and crew carefully and watch out for their next film(s). We need more like them.
-
MetaLark18 June 2002I have a couple of cynical kin who sometimes go to the video rental store and select a movie solely because there are only one or two copies on the shelf. Their reasoning: wildly popular movies usually reflect the crass, Hollywood-dictated tastes of the ignorant masses, while a single- or double-copy film has had enough of a following to be recognized as worthwhile, but not enough to be awful. (Hey, don't blame me--I'm just quoting my nutty relatives.) But you know what? More often than not they bring home a charmer.
"Greenfingers" is such a one. British convicts in an experimental prison discover the joy of creating a beautiful garden. There are some painful setbacks and some delicious triumphs, mixed in with some lust here, some romance there--come to think of it, a kind of human garden. The characters are quirky and endearing, the situations amusing, the presentation economical. The cinematography is good, too; the opening scene could be entitled, "A Thousand Words," for what it's worth.
I particularly salute the courage of those who dared to people a movie with a warden who wasn't sadistic, a celebrated and haughty VIP who wasn't hateful, and well-behaved prisoners who got a break. (Next thing you know, they'll be making movies involving Christians who aren't hypocrites, parents who aren't fools, conservative legislators who aren't racists, and corporation execs who are just about as honest as the rest of us.)
(Naah--never happen.)
See this movie; unless you are an action junkie or a confirmed curmudgeon, it will make you smile and be glad.
7/10 -
=G=3 May 2003"Green Fingers" is a light hearted comedy about a motley group of prison inmates who become horticulturists on a work release program. In other words, the film relies heavily on the comic relief to be found in a group of macho convicts growing flowers. Owen and Mirren lead the way in this underdone flick with no highs or lows, some romance, understated poignancy, and lots of dry Brit wit. "Greenfingers" makes for an enjoyable watch though it may be too easy-going for its own good and will leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied. (B-)
-
lumpynose3 November 2002The movie was saved not by Clive Owen's acting but by his achingly handsome face. If they'd used someone with ordinary looks it would have been a lot more boring for me. The story was reasonably pleasant and wholesome but not exactly compelling. If they'd taken out the sex scene and the repeated use of the F word it could have gotten a G rating and been a fine movie to take the kids to.
-
Boyo-25 August 2002"The Full Monty" seems to have grown another sprout.
As far as I am concerned, the British can make a dozen of these a year, and I will happily see every single one of them. Sentiment in the hands of someone who will not hit you over the head with that sentiment is much welcomed. Emotions expressed on the screen are always better in small doses, and for my money, that doesn't have better representation onscreen than the aforementioned "A Full Monty", "Brassed Off", "Billy Elliot" and now "Greenfingers."
Clive Owen plays Colin Briggs, a man imprisoned for a crime he will not discuss. He thinks of himself as a prisoner and nothing else. When he is released, he commits a much smaller crime in order to get back into prison. He is comfortable in prison and may not feel he has much identity outside prison walls.
Colin is moved to a progressive prison where trust is the main thing. There are no wired fences but if you disobey the rules, you can go back to being familiar with wired fences in a hurry. He is given the opportunity to learn something but Colin has given up on life so he takes whatever job they give him, and of course he hates it.
One day his elderly cellmate, Fergus Wilks (played by David Kelly, from "Waking Ned Devine") gives him flower seeds. Colin plants them almost as an afterthought and probably just to shut up the friendly, outgoing Fergus. He is amazed to find that the flowers have grown, and grown beautifully.
Through a couple of twists, other prisoners along with Colin are given the task of growing and designing a garden on the prison grounds. They are reluctant to do this 'woman's work' but are soon immersed in the project. Colin especially has found his true calling in life - gardening. The next time he is called in front of the parole board, he expresses that he is no longer a prisoner, he is a gardener. He's a gardener.
Through some more twists, the prisoners meet Georgina Woodhouse, a renowned gardening expert. She takes on the guys as proteges and arranges for them to grow a garden at a nearby estate. Meanwhile, Colin gets the chance to romance Georgina's daughter, whose first misfortune was having Georgina for a Mother, and being called 'Primrose', a name she naturally despises.
The prisoners enter the race to win the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show, the best show in the world. This is where a couple of plot twists turn out to be a bit far-fetched and heavy-handed, as one of more likable prisoners has likely stolen from the estate they are working at, and subsequently leaves the prison. You don't get any follow-up to his story or find out what may have happened to him until the very end, and even then, its not enough.
Suffice to say, it has a satisfying ending. Maybe not the most satisfying ending, but like I said, let's leave the obvious to the American moviemakers.
Clive Owen is remarkable as Colin. He's a no-tricks type actor, he has no tricks up his sleeve. He pretty much lays it on the line. He doesn't overdo any of the aspects of Colin's personality at all. He is totally rude to Fergus to begin with and does not have one friend, but as he explained, he's nothing more than a prisoner. Now that he's found something new and valuable in his life, he is able to open up to the other guys, and to have his romance with Primrose, which by the way is not tacked on so as to please the audience members who like that sort of thing. Both people are more needy than they know so it seems natural that they would gravitate to one another.
I have to mention one very sweet scene - Colin is feeding some of the plants, and he's giving them a pep talk. He tells them that although they are going to the best flower show in the world, that they deserve to be there as much as the other flowers, and that they will make him proud. Just so touching, so revealing, so well done like 95% of the rest of the movie.
Helen Mirren as Georgina Woodhouse adds her customary expert performance. Danny Dyer as Tony, Adam Fogerty (he was in "Brassed Off" and played Gorgeous George in "Snatch") and David Kelly are perfect.
So sorry that others are too cynical to gain any enjoyment from this, but I loved it and that's a great feeling. 8/10. -
bobbobwhite25 September 2008Cute little fun movie, but unrealistic about prison life. Guess they had to sweeten it up and not have it as gritty as it really is so regular folks could watch it without getting too upset to see it through. Nice to see anything, however, that shows greater human potential, even in an such an unlikely place as a prison.
In a nutshell, prisoners turned gardeners are allowed to enter a snooty English(oxymoron?)garden show and guess what? They win, no surprise there(it's Rocky, remember?).
The Rocky concept we see in so many movies we love to hate was here in force but was overcome somewhat by a great cast, especially Clive Owen as the main gardener and main squeeze and Helen Mirren, who was terrific as the English gardening maven who gave it all a chance to be greatness. She was terrific.
And, as usual in all Rocky-type films, the little guys won out in the end, but also won out in another way...they became real human beings again and knew they had done something very special(even before they met the queen!). One of them even got the pretty girl. -
tommy-793 February 2005A very well done movie, with everybody turning in a fine performance. Clive Owen was quite good, but David Kelly is simply marvelous. However odd as you may think the story is, you'll be drawn in by this movie almost immediately.
Gardening is pretty much a national sport in England, so perhaps the movie makes more sense to the Brits than us in the states, but don't be fooled by the story premise about a bunch of gardening inmates. It's just a plain enjoyable story that comes highly recommended.
It's based on a series of true events, which just makes the movie all the more delightful.
Go out and rent it, you'll enjoy it. -
Lyonsy10 July 2001So what's it with the English film industry's obsession with the triumph over adversity thing? First we had the burly northerner's baring all, then the Welsh lads making a mountain higher, then Billy Elliott dancing against the odds....and now the prison lads gardening against the odds. A decison has been made to feed this gooey gunk to the yanks and listen to the cash register ring...we love this crap and cannot get enough of it!
-
cecif21 August 2001This lovely little film isn't trying to be anything it's not. It's interesting, touching, sad at times, and very, very funny! What more could you want for entertainment? I enjoy going to a movie and feeling good - okay, so YES, this is a feel-good movie. It has a really, really excellent feel-good plot. Bad guys make good... at gardening!
It's based on a true story, and that's one thing that really makes the story work. You root for the characters (you should!), you hope for the best (what's wrong with that?!), and along the way not everything goes as it "should". Well done folks. Also very well-acted. Scenery great. Characters great. Ending great (no, it isn't over-the-top good-good, if you hate that like I do...).
Sad to have to do the cliched and tired "if you liked _____ you'll love _____", but gotta do it: If you liked "Saving Grace", this is a great movie for you! (Though a friend of mine thinks I should say "if you liked "The Full Monty"...)
I say, spend the money if you are inclined, I don't think you'll regret a minute of it! -
noralee22 December 2005I would probably go to see Clive Owens and Helen Mirren read the phone book, and I practically did in "Greenfingers," but it's still fun for fans of Brit coms and such.
While Clive's "Colin" isn't one of the hardened convicts of HBO's "Oz," he is emotionally cut-off and his blooming with his flowers is sweet, facilitated by mentor David Kelley (from "Waking Ned Devine").
The love story doesn't quite ignite.
The other reformed-through-horticulture prison-mates are the usual Brit class and race rainbow, so are hard to understand sometimes.
It will make a nice episode of PBS's "Masterpiece Theatre."
(originally written 8/4/2001) -
PartialMovieViewer27 November 2022Story really happened. No really. With that in mind, some author/writer churned out this load when commissioned to write this stinker. Facts are quaint but add some squishy sex, it's bound to sell - I mean - like hot cake. So let's throw in prisoners making hamburger in the greenhouse with some blonde cutie. That might not be the real plot, but many viewers will believe garbage like this. The script is fine I guess, kind of draggy and boring - but this feel-good saga was obviously penned for women. The give-away on that assumption is Helen Merlin playing the hussy's man-hating mommy. A role seemingly tailored for Merrin, since she has plenty of experience chopping her pretend x-husbands off at the knees while puffing on a cigar - penis envy? Maybe - maybe net. I give this show 3 gags. Avoid if u can.
-
Chrysanthepop31 December 2008'Greenfingers' is a marvelous and splendid little film. Writer and director Joel Hershman shows brilliant understanding of the British culture and the fascination towards gardening as it is superbly depicted in the film. Do not let the premise mislead you because 'Greenfingers' is about much more than 'a group of inmates interested in gardening'. Clive Owen's character Colin pretty much mentions it in one scene when the officials drop by to consider his parole. The gardens and flowers are a splendorous sight to behold. Hershman's solid writing gives us some wonderfully witty and humorous dialogues and one-liners but there are a few plot holes like how Governor Hodge handles the officials after Tony's escape, since the reputation of the 'open prison' is of utmost importance to him. The cast is first-rate and it includes an understated Clive Owen, a zesty and gorgeous Helen Mirren, a frolicsome David Kelly, a compassionate Warren Clarke, a childlike Danny Dyer, a funny Adam Fogerty and a sweet Natasha Little. Owen and Little form quite a nice pair. I also liked the background score. The songs inject further energy into the film. The beautiful visuals are picturesque rich with vibrant colours. 'Greenfingers' reminded me of the artistic values that flora brings to our lives and some nostalgic memories of when we had a garden that preoccupied us. This film is one entertaining and beautiful little movie.
-
Hunky Stud1 February 2003I rented this DVD because I found it online, and it had so many stars. I was hoping to have a good hearty laugh, but I am quite disappointed on that. However, this is a fresh movie, the color is very bright. It just makes you feel updated, and modern. It is located in a fresh, sort of secluded city in UK.
I especially enjoyed the horticultural lady's different hats. They are very well designed. -
This movie is a delight, and if you like gardening it will warn your heart even more. The quaint setting and story will make it the only prison movie ever fit for children (though there is wee bit of nudity). The story does not have very surprising plots or complex characters still progresses pretty well. Clive Owen does more than justice and sometimes bit out of place considering the simplicity of the story and the wide variety of complex characters under his belt.
-
ksf-222 February 2022Clive owen is briggs, prisoner at edgefield lockup. When he's assigned to the gardens, he reads books by the author georgina woodhouse (mirren). The garden grows. And people notice. Mrs. Woodhouse comes to see it, and has them work on larger gardens. Which get entered into garden contests. For her majesty, the queen. Can they make a garden worthy of the royal gardening contest? That's the basic story, with some prison drama added in, which felt like filler. Didn't really need to be 91 minutes. It's pretty light on material, even if it is based on a true story. Good performances by all, but the script felt a bit thin and fluffy. Written and directed by joel hershman. This is one of the two films he has written and directed. Helen mirren had already been nominated for king george by this time, so she was free to pick and choose the films she wished to make. She'll win the oscar for the queen in 2007. Owen will be nominated for closer in 2005. At one hour in, when briggs is released, we hear the song all i want is you.... by U2. Such a pretty song.
-
asajohansson11 June 2003When this movie finally premiered in Sweden (Feb -03) it didn't get that good reviews. Me and my friends were planning to see "My big fat Greek wedding", but it was sold-out, and we agreed to see "Greenfingers". I've enjoyed Clive Owens performances in "Tanner" and "Gosford park" before, and hoped he would be equally good here. He was. I have to say that he is an awesome actor, with an amazing face. He's got that hard Pacino-face, excellent.
Anyway, we didn't have our hopes up about the film, but what a gem! Really warm, beautiful sceneries, great characters and a splendid sound track. I have a little garden of my own that I usually do nothing about, but this film made me want to grow all sorts of things. Don't miss this movie, it's really great, and David Kellys "Fergus" is a character you do want to see...
I hope that Clive Owen will have a long, successful career. -
doyler7918 February 2024"Greenfingers" (2000) blooms with an unexpected charm, blending humor and heartfelt moments seamlessly. Clive Owen's portrayal of a green-thumbed convict and Helen Mirren's supportive mentorship elevate the film. The narrative, centered around a group of prisoners turning to gardening as a form of rehabilitation, unfolds with a refreshing mix of wit and sincerity.
The film's blooming gardens serve as a metaphor for personal growth, echoing the characters' own journey towards redemption. The visual tapestry of vibrant flowers against the prison backdrop is symbolic, underlining the transformative power of nature in unexpected places.
While "Greenfingers" successfully cultivates a warm atmosphere, some moments feel a bit contrived, and the pacing occasionally dips. Despite these minor setbacks, the movie's overall appeal lies in its ability to blossom into a heartwarming tale that transcends its initial premise.
In the realm of prison comedies, "Greenfingers" stands out as a flower among weeds, earning a solid 7/10 for its unique blend of humor, character development, and the blooming gardens that serve as a poignant backdrop to its narrative.
#GreenfingersBlooms. -
mark-33715 October 2002This is a wonderful (true) story of hardened criminals who, through gardening, become human again. The performances are all quite excellent, including that of the ever-enjoyable Helen Mirren. Even if you aren't a gardener, you will enjoy this film about redemption and triumph.
-
danieljfarthing6 May 2023In 'inspired by truth' 2000 Brit dramedy "Greenfingers" Clive Owen is a convicted murderer who's moved to an open prison (staffed by Warren Clarke, Lucy Punch, Peter Guinness et al) where with fellow inmates (inc Danny Dyer, David Kelly, Peterson Joseph & Adam Fogerty) he grows a lush flower garden (!) that catches the eye of celebrity horticulturalist Helen Mirren (& daughter Natasha Little) leading to an unexpected (but bumpy) path to redemption. The moral tone of writer / director Joel Hershman's tale is a tad skewed but it is quaint (to the point of twee tho). Far from Mirren or Owen's best, it's still lightly passable if some undemanding viewing is desired.
-
bdiebold26 April 2003This is a terrific movie. Clive Owen and Natasha Little are as great a couple as there is, and Helen Mirren and the rest of the cast could hardly be better. Wonderfully acted, intelligently directed, and very sweet. It's just a quiet little gem of a movie.
-
cmnomura9 May 2019We watched Greenfingers on Amazon Prime. Being gardeners and believers in redemption, it attracted our interest. Happily, it was all that we wanted: often amusing and emotive with snappy dialogue, fluid acting and lovely cinematography. I could have done without the flash forward at the movie's opening, which confused me and got in the way as I puzzled over it. Otherwise, the narrative flows and gives the viewer an easy ride. Old pro actors lend sentiment and spice. Younger actors do well in supporting roles, too. Hunky Clive Owen, who is the main protagonist, has a low-key charisma throughout while transforming in a believable fashion. This is a "feel good" movie in the best sense, one that has humanity and humor without cloying sentiment. It ends with a twist that's cinema heaven.
-
No wonder the makers of "The Queen" chose Helen Mirren for the lead.In "Greenfingers" her characterisation of a TV gardener is surely based on H.M.,herself a keen woman of the soil.All that was missing was the ever - present bunch of spoiled snapping corgis digging up the borders.This is a movie that panders to what presumably is seen as the Americans' preferred image of us Brits as a bunch of basically good - natured buffoons living in a neverland of Cotswold stone houses,riding bicycles across streams set in lush rolling countryside.We have a few criminals - all sincerely repentant - some even innocent who are looked after by benign smiling governors and firm but fair prison officers who all live happily in a big old country house made of marzipan. P.G. Wodehouse might just have got away with this sort of stuff,but there is none of his sense of self - mockery here.We are quite solemnly told that the main character murdered his brother,but it's all right because he didn't mean too,and the old guy with cancer murdered three of his wives then gave himself up because he realised he was dangerous. Duh?If you are going to make a movie about prisoners redeeming themselves through gardening then do the job properly - don't sugar the pill by making them all icky - wicky sweethearts.Surely the whole point of the exercise is that gardening is therapeutic to nasty bastards,not Noddy and Big Ears.