There are, to date, five officially released movies adapting V.C. Andrews’ “Flowers in the Attic” series. While adaptations have varied significantly in their adherence to the source material and their overall quality, these five films represent the breadth of attempts to bring the Dollanganger family saga to the screen. This figure includes the initial adaptation and subsequent prequels and sequels that aim to explore the wider world created within the books.
From Page to Screen: A Tangled Bouquet of Adaptations
The journey of “Flowers in the Attic” from bestselling novel to the big (and small) screen has been a turbulent one, marked by changes in studios, casting controversies, and differing interpretations of Andrews’ notoriously dark and sensational material. Understanding the evolution of these adaptations requires a closer look at each individual film and its place within the broader narrative.
The Original Adaptation and its Legacy
The first adaptation, simply titled “Flowers in the Attic” (1987), remains arguably the most well-known, though also perhaps the most critically divisive. Its impact, however, is undeniable. The film attempted to capture the core elements of the novel, focusing on the plight of Cathy, Chris, Cory, and Carrie Dollanganger trapped in their grandmother’s attic. While it introduced the world to the visual interpretation of the story, it also softened some of the book’s more shocking content, a choice that frustrated many loyal fans.
Expanding the Dollanganger Universe
The subsequent adaptations have taken different approaches. Some have focused on prequel stories, like “Flowers in the Attic: The Origin” (2022), a limited series on Lifetime, delving into the history of Olivia Winfield, the seemingly monstrous grandmother. Others have tackled sequel novels, expanding upon the original story’s aftermath and the fates of the surviving characters. The films “Petals on the Wind” (2014), “If There Be Thorns” (2015), and “Seeds of Yesterday” (2015), all produced by Lifetime, continued the saga, exploring Cathy’s complex relationships and the cyclical nature of trauma within the family.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Flowers in the Attic Movies
To further clarify the landscape of “Flowers in the Attic” adaptations, here are some of the most frequently asked questions:
FAQ 1: In what order should I watch the Flowers in the Attic movies?
The most straightforward order is by release date: “Flowers in the Attic” (1987), “Petals on the Wind” (2014), “If There Be Thorns” (2015), “Seeds of Yesterday” (2015), and “Flowers in the Attic: The Origin” (2022). However, watching “Flowers in the Attic: The Origin” first provides backstory on Olivia, framing the original story with added context. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you prefer experiencing the story chronologically or starting with the core narrative.
FAQ 2: Which Flowers in the Attic movie is considered the best adaptation?
This is subjective, and opinions vary greatly. Many consider “Flowers in the Attic: The Origin” to be a strong adaptation, due to its more faithful adherence to the source material and its compelling portrayal of Olivia Winfield’s descent. However, some prefer the nostalgic value of the 1987 film despite its deviations.
FAQ 3: Are all the Flowers in the Attic movies based on V.C. Andrews’ books?
Yes, all five movies are based on novels in the “Flowers in the Attic” series. “Flowers in the Attic” is based on the first book, while “Petals on the Wind,” “If There Be Thorns,” and “Seeds of Yesterday” are based on the subsequent novels in the series. “Flowers in the Attic: The Origin” is based on the prequel novel “Garden of Shadows.”
FAQ 4: Who played Cathy Dollanganger in the different movies?
Kristy Swanson played Cathy in the 1987 “Flowers in the Attic.” Rose McIver took on the role in “Petals on the Wind,” “If There Be Thorns,” and “Seeds of Yesterday.” Jemima Rooper played an older Cathy at the end of “Flowers in the Attic: The Origin.”
FAQ 5: Is there a Flowers in the Attic remake?
While there haven’t been any direct remakes of the 1987 film in the traditional sense, the 2014 Lifetime adaptation “Petals on the Wind” effectively re-launches the series with a new cast and a slightly different tone, arguably serving as a soft reboot.
FAQ 6: Where can I watch the Flowers in the Attic movies?
Availability varies depending on your region. Generally, the Lifetime adaptations (“Petals on the Wind,” “If There Be Thorns,” “Seeds of Yesterday,” and “Flowers in the Attic: The Origin”) are often available on streaming services that carry Lifetime content, or for purchase/rental on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu. The 1987 film may be harder to find on streaming services but is often available for purchase or rental.
FAQ 7: Are the Flowers in the Attic movies accurate to the books?
Accuracy varies greatly. The 1987 film takes significant liberties with the source material, omitting or altering key plot points. The Lifetime adaptations, particularly “Flowers in the Attic: The Origin,” tend to be more faithful, though still subject to some changes for pacing and dramatic effect.
FAQ 8: Will there be any more Flowers in the Attic movies?
As of the current date, there are no officially announced plans for further “Flowers in the Attic” movies. However, given the continued popularity of the books and the success of the previous adaptations, it remains a possibility. The vast number of books in the extended Dollanganger family saga offers ample material for future adaptations.
FAQ 9: What is the overall tone and genre of the Flowers in the Attic movies?
The films generally fall into the genre of gothic horror or psychological thriller with elements of family drama and forbidden romance. They explore themes of abuse, incest, manipulation, and the destructive power of family secrets. The tone is often dark and suspenseful, with moments of heightened melodrama.
FAQ 10: Who played Olivia Winfield (the Grandmother) in the different movies?
Louise Fletcher famously portrayed Olivia in the 1987 film. Ellen Burstyn took on the role in “Petals on the Wind,” “If There Be Thorns,” and “Seeds of Yesterday.” Jemima Rooper (as a younger Olivia) and Kelsey Grammer (as Olivia’s father) played her in “Flowers in the Attic: The Origin.”
FAQ 11: Are the Flowers in the Attic movies suitable for children?
No. The “Flowers in the Attic” movies contain mature themes, including child abuse, incest, and violence, making them unsuitable for children. They are generally intended for adult audiences.
FAQ 12: What makes the Flowers in the Attic series so popular?
The popularity of the “Flowers in the Attic” series stems from its taboo-breaking themes, its gothic atmosphere, and its exploration of dysfunctional family dynamics. The series taps into a fascination with secrets, forbidden desires, and the dark side of human nature. The compelling characters, even the villains, also contribute to the series’ enduring appeal.
Conclusion: A Garden of Twisted Tales
The five “Flowers in the Attic” movies represent a range of interpretations of V.C. Andrews’ controversial and captivating novels. Whether you prefer the nostalgic charm of the original film or the more faithful adaptations offered by Lifetime, these movies provide a window into the twisted world of the Dollanganger family, a world that continues to fascinate and disturb audiences decades after its initial publication. The count remains at five, but the possibility of future additions to this petal-strewn cinematic landscape remains perpetually open.