Moondial

Synopsis

"Moondial" is a British television drama series from 1988, adapted from Helen Cresswell's novel of the same name, starring Siri Neal. The story centers on Minty, a lonely and imaginative girl who is sent to live with her eccentric relatives in a grand old house in the English countryside. There, she discovers a mysterious sundial in the garden that allows her to travel through time. Through her journeys, Minty encounters children from the past and unravels haunting secrets linked to the house and her own family history. A blend of fantasy, mystery, and emotional drama, "Moondial" explores themes of loss, friendship, and the power of time in healing wounds.

Cast

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  Siri Neal

  Araminta 'Minty' Cane

• Tony Sands

  Tom

• Helena Avellano

  Sarah

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  Jacqueline Pearce

  Miss Vole / Miss Raven

• 

  Arthur Hewlett

  'Old' World

Reviews

"Moondial" received a generally positive reception from audiences and critics alike, praised particularly for its atmospheric storytelling and compelling performances. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 7.2/10, showing a solid appreciation from viewers who praise the show for its engaging narrative and nostalgic charm. While not as widely reviewed by mainstream critics, the show has been lauded by fans of British children's drama for its mature themes and clever handling of time travel without relying on special effects. Some retrospective reviews highlight Siri Neal's nuanced portrayal of Minty as a standout element that brings emotional depth to the story. However, a few criticisms focus on the series' slow pacing and occasionally dated production values, which might feel less accessible to a modern audience used to more fast-paced storytelling. Despite these minor drawbacks, "Moondial" remains a cherished classic for its unique blend of fantasy and reality, standing out as a thoughtful and heartwarming drama.