Logo What's After the Movie

A Man Named Pearl 2008

This documentary explores the inspiring story of Pearl Fryar, a man who turned his small, overgrown yard into a stunning display of topiaries. Through perseverance and creativity, he cultivated an extraordinary garden that draws visitors from far and wide. The film showcases his unique artistic talent and the positive impact his creation has on his community and those who experience it.

This documentary explores the inspiring story of Pearl Fryar, a man who turned his small, overgrown yard into a stunning display of topiaries. Through perseverance and creativity, he cultivated an extraordinary garden that draws visitors from far and wide. The film showcases his unique artistic talent and the positive impact his creation has on his community and those who experience it.

Does A Man Named Pearl have end credit scenes?

No!

A Man Named Pearl does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.

Meet the Full Cast and Actors of A Man Named Pearl

Explore the complete cast of A Man Named Pearl, including both lead and supporting actors. Learn who plays each character, discover their past roles and achievements, and find out what makes this ensemble cast stand out in the world of film and television.


No actors found

Ratings and Reviews for A Man Named Pearl

See how A Man Named Pearl is rated across major platforms like IMDb, Metacritic, and TMDb. Compare audience scores and critic reviews to understand where A Man Named Pearl stands among top-rated movies in its genre.


Metacritic

63

Metascore

tbd

User Score

Rotten Tomatoes
review

75%

TOMATOMETER

review

89%

User Score

IMDb

7.9 /10

IMDb Rating

Take the Ultimate A Man Named Pearl Movie Quiz

Challenge your knowledge of A Man Named Pearl with this fun and interactive movie quiz. Test yourself on key plot points, iconic characters, hidden details, and memorable moments to see how well you really know the film.


A Man Named Pearl Quiz: Test your knowledge about the inspiring story of Pearl Fryar and his remarkable topiary journey.

What motivated Pearl Fryar to create his topiary garden?

Full Plot Summary and Ending Explained for A Man Named Pearl

See more

Read the complete plot summary of A Man Named Pearl, including all major events, twists, and the full ending explained in detail. Explore key characters, themes, hidden meanings, and everything you need to understand the story from beginning to end.


A Man Named Pearl narrates the remarkable journey of Pearl Fryar, a self-taught topiary artist whose rise to fame began in an unexpected manner. Back in 1976, Pearl accepted a position at a can factory in Bishopville, South Carolina. As he and his wife Metra explored their new rural southern home, they found a for-sale house in a predominantly white neighborhood. However, they quickly learned that their real estate agent was warned by neighbors against selling to a black family. One homeowner even expressed the prevailing prejudice: “Black people don’t keep up their yards.”

Instead of succumbing to anger and resentment over this racial stereotype, Pearl took it as a challenge, ignited by a desire to prove the discriminatory attitude wrong. He purchased a home in a black neighborhood and set out to cultivate a garden that would not only change perceptions but also gain positive recognition. His initial aspiration was straightforward yet ambitious: to become the first African-American recipient of Bishopville’s coveted Yard of the Month award.

Understanding he needed to create something truly spectacular to captivate the Bishopville garden club, Pearl began transforming every bush and tree into remarkable, abstract shapes—a project that would later blossom into a breathtaking wonderland. Though he was unaware at the time, his efforts would not only earn local accolades but would also attract thousands of visitors from across the United States and beyond.

Now at the age of 67, Pearl has graced numerous magazines and newspapers, including The New York Times, along with appearances on shows like CBS Sunday Morning. The attention surrounding Pearl and his enchanting topiary garden has been instrumental in channeling crucial tourist revenue into the struggling town of Bishopville, which happens to be the most impoverished county in South Carolina.

However, the influence of Pearl and his art transcends mere economic impact; it has fostered a deep spiritual resonance within the community. As Rev. Jerome McCray, Pearl’s minister, poignantly remarks about the garden: > “It’s the one place in all of South Carolina that people can go, both black and white, and feel love.”

Strolling through Pearl’s three-and-a-half-acre paradise, visitors are immediately struck by the central theme of love that permeates the garden. In vibrant, flower-adorned letters, the words LOVE, PEACE, & GOODWILL are inscribed into the ground—principles that reflect how Pearl strives to live his life while nurturing his yard for nearly three decades.

A Man Named Pearl is a captivating and thought-provoking film that opens both hearts and minds. It delivers an uplifting message about respecting oneself and others and beautifully illustrates what can be accomplished when one allows the full expression of humanity to flourish.

Uncover the Details: Timeline, Characters, Themes, and Beyond!

Movie Themes and Keywords

Discover the central themes, ideas, and keywords that define the movie’s story, tone, and message. Analyze the film’s deeper meanings, genre influences, and recurring concepts.


pearltopiaryfryarsubject name in titletitle spoken by character

Similar Movies You Should Know About

Browse a curated list of movies similar in genre, tone, characters, or story structure. Discover new titles like the one you're watching, perfect for fans of related plots, vibes, or cinematic styles.


© 2025 What's After the Movie. All rights reserved.