Watch Flowers in the Attic: The Origin

Flowers in the Attic: The Origin is a 2022 drama television film that serves as a prequel to the popular Lifetime movie Flowers in the Attic, which was based on the novel of the same name by V.C. Andrews. The film explores the early life of Olivia Winfield, the cruel grandmother featured in Flowers in the Attic, and reveals the traumatic events that shaped her into the wicked guardian who locks her grandchildren in an attic.

Set in the 1930s, the story follows the privileged upbringing of young Olivia as the only child of wealthy parents who own a successful steel business. Olivia seems to have an idyllic childhood, growing up in a mansion filled with lavish parties and surrounded by luxury. However, beneath the surface, Olivia faces neglect and emotional abuse from her self-absorbed socialite mother. Her only solace is the friendship she finds with her cousin John, a kind boy who works at her father's company.

When Olivia turns 18, her parents decide to arrange her marriage to Malcolm Foxworth, the heir of the powerful Foxworth family. Though Malcolm is handsome and wealthy, Olivia feels trapped and longs to marry John instead. Her friend Pauline tries to convince her to defy her parents, but Olivia gives in to pressure. On her wedding night, Malcolm rapes and impregnates her.

Now married to an abusive man she despises, Olivia falls into depression and isolation. She gives birth to Malcolm's son, Garland, but Malcolm remains cold and controlling. Olivia finds some comfort in doting on her new baby, but her husband restricts her access to Garland as a way to punish and manipulate her.

Years later when Garland is five years old, Olivia discovers he has a life-threatening heart condition. Desperate to save her son, she reaches out to John and begs him to help her obtain experimental medication. John agrees, rekindling their bond. When Malcolm learns of Olivia's alliance with John behind his back, he flies into a jealous rage.

The storyline culminates in a wrenching tragedy that changes the course of Olivia's life. In the aftermath, she is left hardened, bitter and hungry for vengeance against the Foxworth family name. By the end, Olivia has transformed into the cold, domineering grandmother who locked away her grandchildren decades later.

Flowers in the Attic: The Origin delivers high drama, opulent costumes and scenery, and a compelling origin story for one of V.C. Andrews' most iconic villain characters. While staying true to the gothic tone of the Flowers in the Attic franchise, this gripping prequel invites viewers to understand the traumatic experiences that forged Olivia into a monster. Actress Jemima Rooper delivers a standout performance in the complex lead role, lending empathy and humanity to Olivia's suffering while also embracing her malevolent potential. Fans of the books and movies will find deeper resonance as Olivia's motivations are laid bare.

Flowers in the Attic: The Origin is a series that ran for 1 seasons (4 episodes) between July 9, 2022 and on Lifetime