Anne of Green Gables: A New Beginning

This prequel tells the story of how Anne Shirley came to be an orphan and eventually adopted by the Cuthberts. It focuses on her early life, her mother's tragic past, and her journey to Green Gables, exploring the circumstances that led her to Avonlea. The film delves into themes of love, loss, and resilience as Anne navigates her challenging childhood.

While it aimed to expand the beloved 'Anne of Green Gables' narrative, 'A New Beginning' received a mixed reception. Some viewers appreciated the backstory and the exploration of Anne's origins, while others felt it strayed too far from the spirit of the original L.M. Montgomery novels. It was generally seen as a decent family drama but lacked the charm and depth that made the earlier adaptations so iconic.

• Offers a poignant look into Anne's early life and the events that shaped her.
• Fails to capture the enduring magic and literary quality of previous adaptations.
• A visually appealing film with strong performances, but ultimately a less compelling narrative.

Google audience: Audience reviews are varied, with some appreciating the prequel aspect and the attempt to fill in Anne's backstory, while others found it disappointing compared to earlier, more beloved versions of the story.

Ella Ballentine, who plays the young Anne Shirley, would later go on to star in the 2017 film 'The Dark Tower'.