Publisher: Miramax
Ages: nine and up
Parental
Advisory:
Some mature
themes
Dramas that appeal to both teens and their parents are a rare breed. But Miramax's Finding Neverland offers a magical, imaginative and touching experience that spans the generations.
Finding Neverland is a tale of magic and fantasy inspired by the life of James Barrie, the author of the children's classic "Peter Pan." Set in London in 1904, the film is a fictional account of Barrie's creative journey to bring Peter Pan to life, from his first inspiration for the story up until the play's premiere. The film features a tremendous cast that includes: Johnny Depp, Kate Winslet, Julie Christie and Dustin Hoffman.
After a disappointing opening to his latest play, Barrie (Depp) finds inspiration in London's Kensington Gardens when he meets the Llewelyn Davies family: four fatherless boys and their widowed mother (Winslet). Barrie befriends the family, engaging the boys in disguises and games to create imaginative play-worlds of cowboys and indians, pirates and more. From all this comes the inspiration for "Peter Pan." Near the end, a twist of fate makes Barry understand what it means to truly believe. There isn't a dry eye in the house.
Bonus features aren't plentiful, but fun. Two mini-documentaries: "The Magic of Finding Neverland" and "Creating Neverland" talk about making the film. There are deleted scenes with optional commentary from director Marc Forster, producer Richard Gladstein and writer David Magee; funny outtakes from the film; "On The Red Carpet" which brings viewers up close and personal with the film's Hollywood premiere; and a feature-length audio commentary track with the producer, writer and director.
To enjoy the film, kids have to first watch it. And if the teens don't want to watch some drama about "Peter Pan," just tell them Johnny Depp, the guy from "Pirates of the Carribean" is in it. That'll get them.
4/4/05 Daytrum Editorial Staff
