Linnea in Monet's Garden

Movie / Show Details

Amazon.com

Lena Anderson and Christina Bjork have turned their popular children’s book into a charming, simply animated introduction to the work of Impressionist painter Claude Monet. Linnea, a vibrant little Swedish girl, is intrigued by the paintings of gardens she sees in a book in the home of her friend, Mr. Bloom. Together they go to Paris, where they visit the Marmottan, a little-known museum with an exceptional collection of Monets. Linnea discovers the familiar paintings are just “blobs and smears” up close, but become recognizable flowers when seen at the proper distance. Mr. Bloom explains that Monet sought to suggest the play of light on water and foliage, rather than recording it in detail. The next day, they make their pilgrimage to Giverny, to walk amid the scenery Monet painted. Linnea is bright and well-mannered but never priggish; her relationship with Mr. Bloom suggests mutual affection and respect. The animation itself is fairly minimal–comparable to Saturday morning cartoons–but the story and well-photographed paintings make up for its limits. Linnea could easily be expanded into a series that would teach children about the life and work of other important artists. –Charles Solomon

Product Description

{WINNER! Best Animated Film, New England Children’s Film Festival}

Here she comes, right from the pages of the bestselling book LINNEA IN MONET’S GARDEN. The charming tale about a little girl’s love for Impressionist Claude Monet’s paintings is now brought to life in full animation. Join Linnea and her friend Mr. Bloom as they set off to Paris, and then to Monet’s garden in Giverny. Watch with delight as they discover the real places which served as inspiration for their favorite paintings. And marvel as the paintings and the garden come to “life” in live action.

LINNEA IN MONET’S GARDEN is a unique blend of imagination and education, teaching children about the art and life of one of the most important painters of the 20th century, while entertaining them with the mystery and beauty of art and nature.

Review

Linnea has an engaging grin, and her enthusiasm is contagious! –The New Yorker

Linnea sparkles with the joy of discovery! –School Library Journal