Greenfingers (2000)

British inmates in an experimental “open prison” mend their woes by planting a garden on the grounds of the correctional facility where they serve their time.  Some find love, others forgiveness, but all come away having “grown” in some way.  
 

Sound improbably cheesy?  Like something that would never happen in real life?  Too full of gardening puns for you taste?  Well here’s the real surprise—this movie is based on a true story. 

Even though it’s unlikely you’ve heard anything about it outside of this blog, you should be at least mildly interested in seeing this movie.  Though it is admittedly a very sunny, perhaps simplistic, view of what criminals in Britain can and do go through during their stay in prison, this pleasant patch of inspirational fluff is just the ticket for helping you believe that even the worst situations in life can be made better.  Also, Clive Owen plays the lead role with Helen Mirren for backup.  AND!  As if that weren’t enough to entice you to click “Add to Queue”, consider that you'll also get the added bonus of dry humor and lovely garden settings! 

A cheerful pick-me-up for any moviegoer who wants a break from the horrors of the evening news but without committing to a fully fledged trip into fantasyland.