Review of Finding Neverland (2004) by Michael Y — 28 Mar 2011

The story of famous childhood icon, Peter Pan, is bought to life, quite literally, as it is told as a biopic of J.M. Barrie's friendship with a struggling family who would inspire him to write his greatest play.

Sir James Matthew Barrie is much like a child at heart, writing plays, seeing things through his imagination that no one else can see. But his best work came from his encounter with the widowed Sylvia Davies and her 4 sons. The time he spends with the Davies is true and from his heart, even though people believe differently. But even though the family is inspiring his next work, the drama of the real world bares a lot of weight and might crush his good spirit the longer he stayes with the family. Johnny Depp plays one of his most suttle roles of his career, but is just as wonderful. Kate Winslet plays an incredible struggling single mother with a lot of strength and emotion. The story takes on the classic theme of the power of childlike innocence and believing in what you cannot believe. It's the very foundation of the themes of Peter Pan, which at times is kind of too dramatic. The loss of innocence, a happy tone taking turnes for the worst, this movie has what a good story should, even if it's predictable.

This very well directed movie is a real tear jerker, plucking all the right heartstrings to make a suttle, but very emotional movie. But asides from the dramatic pacing, this movie does try to be very creative. The perspective of the camera at times is pretty unique and interesting. The seperation from the real world and fantasy takes great turns in it's presentation. The cinematography creates a very artistic flow and makes the movie look wonderful. Sets and costumes look very authentic and wonderful, making this period piece look just as romantic as the world that the movie's "Peter Pan" play tries to be. Oh, and not to mention the creating of the play looks incredible as well.

Though not without it's usual cliches and usual Hollywood dramatic looks and moments, but still, Finding Neverland brings back that good old feeling that only imagination could bring out. It's a great heartfelt drama with lots of medaphores to think about and with great performances that makes this movie emotional and wonderful to watch.