The Spanish Gardener is a quiet, beautifully emotional film. Dirk Bogarde shines as a loving and convincingly Spanish gardener and athlete in small-town Spain, where stuffed shirt Harrington Brande (veteran British actor Michael Hordern) has been stationed as a small-time diplomat. Brande's son Nicholas (young Jon Whiteley) is kept out of school, out of the sun, and out of other children's company, ever since his mother left the family. The possessive, stuffy single father becomes repressive and protective of his only child when Nicholas shows interest in the outdoors life of the gentle, loving gardener.
With a sub-plot somewhat similar to 'Captains Courageous' regarding the education of fathers, and excellent performances all around, this is a fine film for fans of classic films.
With a sub-plot somewhat similar to 'Captains Courageous' regarding the education of fathers, and excellent performances all around, this is a fine film for fans of classic films.