The Story
Inspirational movies based on true stories often have the most profound impact. “Dare to Be Wild” is one such film, telling the story of Mary Reynolds (played by Emma Greenwell), a young Irishwoman who has a deep respect for nature. Although she lacks formal training, Mary’s unique perspective brings her to London, where she works under a renowned landscaper. For a time, she designs gardens while her boss takes all the credit, until one day she is abruptly fired.
Undeterred, Mary decides to take a big chance by entering the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show. With limited time and resources, she embarks on an extraordinary journey to create a distinctive and beautiful garden.
Dare to Be Wild (2015) Review
This film stays true to its title by offering a fresh take on the concept of “wild.” The rustic charm is one of its most appealing aspects. The landscapes, sweeping aerial shots, vibrant colors, and organic elements are breathtaking, making the setting a character in its own right. The movie also serves as a great advertisement for Ireland; if you didn’t want to visit before, you’ll likely want to after watching this film.
The characters are quite engaging as well. Mary is portrayed as a determined and studious young woman who is committed to her dreams. The real Mary Reynolds, who was the youngest winner of the Chelsea Flower Show, encourages people to build a personal relationship with their gardens. This characteristic is vividly captured by Emma Greenwell in her portrayal of Mary, who comes across as a free-spirited individual in awe of nature’s beauty.
Although newcomer Greenwell (who also appeared in “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies”) gets most of the screen time, Tom Hughes plays a significant role as well. Known for his role as Prince Albert in ITV’s “Victoria,” Hughes adds a touch of romance to the film. Although the real-life story is less romantic, the budding relationship between their characters is heartwarming.
“Dare to Be Wild” is a tribute to dreamers and nature lovers. It showcases organic storytelling and the resilience to overcome setbacks. Mary’s determination to pursue her dreams no matter what is inspiring and makes for a compelling journey.
Note: This movie is reminiscent of “This Beautiful Fantastic,” another unique film with a distinct vision.
Where to Watch
You can stream “Dare to Be Wild” on Netflix or find it on Amazon Video.
Content
The film is rated PG and contains some mild innuendo and a brief scene of a couple lying together.
Have you seen this film? What did you think of it, and are you familiar with Mary Reynolds’ work? Share your thoughts below.
