Review of Hook (1991) by Jon T — 27 Dec 2011

Despite being a solid financial success, Steven Spielberg's ambitious (unofficial) "sequel" to "Peter Pan", called HOOK was harshly maligned by critics at the time of its release, and to this day some still call it one of Spielberg's worst, as if to suggest that the movie is totally worthless.

In truth, however, HOOK is actually a solidly entertaining family film. It's not one of Spielberg's greatest by any means, but the film still offers genuine moments of heart, magic, and even a small touch of humor.

The idea behind the story is turning Peter Pan into a cold, unloving grown-up who must rediscover his imaginative younger self when Captain Hook kidnaps his children. But it takes a while for the hard-nosed Peter Banning to recall what it's like to believe in fairies, think happy thoughts, and even remember what it feels like to be a kid in order to succeed.

In a way, this film is a bit of a split personality --at times it borders on gloomy and sometimes dull, yet at other times it's wondrous and even touching. This is not a major detriment in any way; considering the nature of both the protagonist and the story, it actually is fairly fitting.

John Williams' score is lush and lavish, and the visual effects are top-notch, as well. The performances are all very solid, with Dustin Hoffman, naturally, giving a deliciously scenery-chewing performance as the nasty, theatrically flamboyant Hook, and Bob Hoskins as his show-stealing mate Smee.

In addition, Robin Williams does a good job of conveying Peter's transformation, although one cannot say this is one of his best roles. Julia Roberts' Tinkerbell is mostly decent, but it's odd that Spielberg gives her the option to talk instead of being mute.

Some scenes could use some trimming as well, but all in all this is a much overlooked film that deserves a second chance.