Flowers in the Attic

Based on the best-selling novel by V.C. Andrews, Lifetime’s 2014 adaptation of "Flowers in the Attic" is a gripping film that delves into the dark and twisted themes of family secrets, forbidden love, and survival. Directed by Deborah Chow and featuring notable stars such as Heather Graham, Ellen Burstyn, Kiernan Shipka, and Mason Dye, the movie reimagines one of the most controversial tales in modern literature, offering its audience a riveting encounter with the mysterious and macabre lives of the Dollanganger clan.

The story of "Flowers in the Attic" follows four siblings – Chris, Cathy, and the twins, Cory and Carrie – lovingly referred to as the Dollanganger children. Living a comfortable and contented life in the suburbs of Pennsylvania during the 1950s, their world takes a tragic turn with the unexpected death of their dear father, throwing their lives into chaos and uncertainty.

Their youthful, seemingly bewildered mother, Corrine, portrayed by Heather Graham, unveils a shocking family secret in the aftermath of this catastrophe. Revealing her privileged but estranged family background, she takes her four children back to her palatial ancestral home, a grand Virginia estate aptly named ‘Foxworth Hall’. This trip is painted as a temporary endeavor – the children are told that their stay is just until Corrine manages to reclaim her father's affection and secure the family’s wealthy inheritance.

In the mansion, they come face to face with their stern, controlling, and religious grandmother, Olivia, potently portrayed by veteran actress Ellen Burstyn. The innocent Dollanganger children are quickly relegated to the sprawling mansion's secluded attic, beginning a life of horrific mistreatment and intense isolation that forms the central narrative arc of the tale.

As the days twisted into weeks and months, the attic becomes a heart-wrenching prison as well as a dark playground for the siblings. The eldest children Cathy and Chris, played convincingly by Kiernan Shipka from 'Mad Men' fame and Mason Dye respectively, take on the roles of surrogate parents for the twins, all the while trying to retain a semblance of normalcy and some childhood innocence amidst dreadful circumstances.

"Flowers in the Attic" deftly handles the exploration of complex themes, winding through a maze of psychological horror, family drama, and a haunting coming-of-age narrative. All the while, the storyline keeps the audience captivated as they piece together fragments of inherent family mysteries along with the children. Director Deborah Chow cranks up the tension, enticing the viewers with chilling circumstances and compelling performances from a talented cast.

This adaptation also takes some creative liberties to balance the controversy surrounding the story while preserving its unsettling essence, with some plot elements toned down in comparison to the source material. However, the essence of the tragic tale is retained in full, allowing those familiar with Andrews’ work to relive the chilling chapters, while introducing a new audience to this shocking narrative.

In terms of its technical aspects, the movie heavily relies on its meticulously reproduced 1950s sets, elaborate costumes, and atmospheric cinematography to set the tone. The gloomy, reclusive attic is claustrophobic, yet exudes an enigmatic charm – a stark juxtaposition that adds layers to the narrative and character development.

In conclusion, Lifetime's 2014 rendition of "Flowers in the Attic" is a dramatic exploration of an extraordinary narrative, coupled with impressive performances by its lead cast. The experience is designed to unsettle and provoke thought, making for a movie experience that elicits an array of emotions from its audience. It's a classic tale of survival, tenacity, and the darker side of familial relationships, making it a riveting watch for those who enjoy psychological dramas. Whether you are new to V. C. Andrews' world or a long-time fan of the original novel series, this adaptation offers a captivatingly somber journey into the enigma that is the Dollanganger family.